The Department of the Environment (DOE) would like to inform the general public, particularly investors and land developers, that prior to the purchase or final agreement to purchase any lands, it is advisable to inquire whether the land is developable and whether the land use in that specific site is compatible with their proposed development. It would be in their best interest to seek such clarification about the land prior to the purchase. To assist in this endeavor we would like to inform that the development of shoals and areas of “land” that are covered with more than one foot of water, is not permitted. In line with this, the DOE is once again hereby advising the general public that the use of corals, especially live ones, for use as fill material or material for seawalls, must cease immediately. All reports of such activity will be investigated jointly with the Fisheries Department, and offenders will be p rosecuted.
With the growth of the Tourism Industry, especially the cruise ship sector in the last five years, there has been an increased demand for marina services where tender vessels, yachts, and other boats could moor and be offered safe harborage. To assist in the proper planning and development of these structures, the Department of the Environment has developed Marina Environmental Guidelines, which tries to mitigate the possible adverse environmental impacts associated with marinas. Also, the DOE has developed Environmental Guidelines for construction of Over-The-Water structures (cabanas, restaurants, bars, villas, etc.). These structures have been proposed primarily for tourism purposes in the coastal areas such as the offshore cayes, riverbanks and lagoons. The DOE recognizes that developments of this nature should be conducted in a prudent and regulated manner, and hence developed such environmental guidelines for the benefit of all.