A separate town
The Town of Fort Myers Beach issues its own permits. It's separate from the City of Fort Myers and from unincorporated Lee County. Its land development code has a chapter on marine facilities (Chapter 26) covering docks, seawalls, boat lifts and davits.
New applications are filed through the town's GOVWELL system. Town Hall is on (239) 765-0202.
What seawall permits need now
- Since April 16, 2025, seawall permits must include the town's Stormwater Pollution Protection Plan form.
- The FEMA 50% rule for substantial improvement and substantial damage is enforced in plan review, because the town sits in the special flood hazard area.
- State (DEP) and federal (Army Corps) approvals can apply to work in the water.
The 50% rule mainly affects buildings, but it can shape the scope of a project that combines house, seawall and dock work. Ask your design professional how it applies to yours.
After Ian
Many docks were rebuilt quickly after Ian under emergency state authorizations, which allowed restoring them to their pre-storm condition. Walls and docks repaired in a hurry may now need a proper inspection and permanent work. See seawall inspection and dock repair.
Costs
Southwest Florida contractors publish about $35–180 per foot for targeted seawall repairs and $850–2,200 per foot for replacement. See the cost guide.
Getting a quote
Use the form below. We'll pass your request to one licensed, insured contractor who works on Fort Myers Beach. Free for homeowners, with no obligation.
Source: Town of Fort Myers Beach, Building Services.
This page summarizes published rules and prices for general information. It isn't engineering or legal advice, and codes change. Your contractor, engineer and building department have the final word for your property.
Common questions
Is Fort Myers Beach permitting the same as Fort Myers?
No. The Town of Fort Myers Beach is a separate municipality with its own building department, permits and land development code (Chapter 26 covers marine facilities such as docks, seawalls, boat lifts and davits). Its Town Hall number is (239) 765-0202.
What extra paperwork does a seawall permit need on Fort Myers Beach?
Since April 16, 2025, seawall permit applications must include the town's Stormwater Pollution Protection Plan form. New applications are filed through the town's GOVWELL system.