A dispute over beachfront signs in St. Pete Beach has grown into a broader debate over private property rights, public beach access, and Florida’s customary use doctrine. Plaza Beach Motel and Undertow Beach Bar have filed a federal lawsuit challenging the city’s new beach sign ordinance, which prohibits permanent signs within 50 feet of the Gulf.
Ordinance Details
The ordinance, approved by commissioners in June, allows removable A-frame signs elsewhere on the beach under certain conditions. The businesses argue that the city unfairly singled out beachfront property owners by prohibiting their signs closest to the water while allowing government signs in the same area.
Resident Dominic Isgro told commissioners that the public has recreational rights to the beach, which should be preserved. However, beachfront business owners, including Plaza Beach Motel owner Rob Czyszczon, argue that clearly marked property lines protect guests and help deputies enforce trespassing laws.
Legal Battle
The lawsuit asks a federal judge to declare the ordinance unconstitutional, prevent the city from enforcing it, and award damages and attorneys’ fees. The city has not yet filed its response in federal court and has been granted an additional 20 days to respond.
Original reporting: St. Pete Catalyst — read the source article.
