How to Get a Walton County Beach Driving Permit

If you're a Walton County resident looking to drive your 4WD vehicle on the beach, you'll need a beach driving permit. These permits are exclusively available to full-time residents or property owners in the county, and only 150 new permits are issued annually through a lottery system. Here's a quick breakdown:

• Eligibility: Only full-time Walton County residents or property owners qualify. Proof of residency or property ownership is required.
• Vehicle Requirements: Must be a 4x4 vehicle with active Florida registration in your name.
• Permit Types:
  • Standard Beach Driving Permit: $135/year (lottery-based).
  • Boat Launch Permit: $40/year.
  • Disability Permit: $10/year (requires a State of Florida Disabled Persons Parking Identification Permit).
  • Grandfathered Permits: For long-time permit holders who renew annually.

Key Dates:

• Lottery Application: April 1 – May 10.
• Lottery Drawing: May 15.
• Permit Purchase: June 1 – June 30.

Once approved, permits are valid from June 1 to May 31. Driving is limited to designated areas like Grayton Beach and Phillips Inlet, with strict rules on speed (5 mph) and hours (no driving between 10:00 p.m. and sunrise unless launching a boat). Violations can result in fines up to $500 or permit revocation.

Keep reading for a step-by-step guide to applying and all the rules you need to follow.

Beach Driving Lottery Drawing - May 15, 2025 (Part 2)

Who Qualifies for a Beach Driving Permit

Beach driving permits in Walton County are reserved exclusively for full-time residents. To qualify, you must either own property in the county or be a registered voter there. Unfortunately, visitors and vacation homeowners do not meet the eligibility criteria. Before applying, ensure you have the necessary documents to confirm your residency or property ownership.

Proof of Residency or Property Ownership

To prove residency, you’ll need a valid Florida driver’s license that lists a Walton County address. If voter registration is your basis for applying, a Walton County voter registration card is required. For property owners, documentation of real property ownership is necessary. The county verifies ownership using records from the Walton County Property Appraiser, which can be accessed at waltonpa.com. If the property is owned under a business name or shared ownership, you must provide evidence of holding more than 50% controlling interest or present a signed resolution from the other owners.

Vehicle Requirements

Only 4x4 vehicles with active Florida registration in your name are eligible for a beach driving permit. Vehicles without true four-wheel-drive capability, two-wheel-drive cars, or those registered outside of Florida do not qualify. If applying for a boat launch permit, you’ll also need to provide current trailer registration. Additionally, the vehicle and trailer must stay connected while operating in designated beach areas.

Beach Driving Permit Options

Walton County offers various beach driving permits to meet different access needs. Knowing the options helps you navigate the rules and ensures you're following the county's guidelines for lawful beach access. Choosing the right permit is key to enjoying the beach without any hiccups.

Standard Beach Driving Permit

The standard permit lets you drive and park on Grayton Beach, which is the primary area in Walton County where beach driving is allowed. Each year, only 150 permits are issued through a lottery system. The application period runs from June 1 to July 10, with the lottery drawing taking place on July 15. This permit costs $135 and expires on August 1, no matter when you purchase it. If you're a resident or property owner aiming to drive on the beach, entering this lottery is your main opportunity to gain access.

Boat Launch or Trailer Permit

If your focus is on watercraft activities, this permit is for you. It provides access to launch boats and trailers at Grayton Beach and Phillips Inlet Access at Inlet Beach. Keep in mind, Phillips Inlet is a narrow 66-foot area designed strictly for launching and drop-offs - there's no parking available. The trailer decal costs $40, and it’s important to note that personal watercraft are not covered under this permit.

Disability and Grandfathered Permits

Residents with permanent mobility disabilities can apply for a disability permit, which is free aside from a $10 processing fee. To qualify, you’ll need a 4x4 vehicle and a valid State of Florida Disabled Persons Parking Identification Permit. The permit holder must also be present in the vehicle when accessing the beach.

Grandfathered permits are a special category for residents who held permits before the lottery system began. These permits cost $135 annually and allow holders to bypass the lottery - provided they renew on time every year. Missing even one renewal means forfeiting this status permanently, requiring you to enter the lottery like everyone else.

Steps to Apply for Your Permit

When and How to Submit Your Application

The lottery application period begins on April 1 and ends at the close of business on May 10. If you miss this deadline, you'll need to wait an entire year to apply again. The random drawing takes place on May 15, and selected applicants will be notified via email.

You can submit your application in three ways: online at mywaltonfl.gov, in person, or by mail to 46 Coastal Centre Blvd., Santa Rosa Beach (office hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 am–4:30 pm).

If you're chosen, you must complete your permit purchase within the 30-day window from June 1 to June 30. Failing to do so means your spot will go to the next person on the waitlist. Once purchased, your permit is valid for one year, starting June 1 and ending May 31 of the following year.

Before submitting your application, double-check the checklist below to ensure you have all the required documents.

Documents You'll Need

Make sure you meet the residency or property ownership requirements outlined in the eligibility section. Then, gather the following:

• Proof of real property ownership and up-to-date property tax status. You can verify this information at waltonpa.com.
• A current Florida 4-wheel drive vehicle registration. The registration must clearly show the vehicle's make, model, year, tag number, and VIN.

Applications missing any required documents will be disqualified, so ensure everything is included before submission.

Getting Your Permit

Once your application is approved and payment is processed, follow these steps to receive your permit.

You can pick up your permit in person at the Code Compliance office in Santa Rosa Beach during regular business hours. If you'd rather have it mailed, allow 2–3 weeks for delivery. Keep in mind, the county is not responsible for lost permits, and a replacement will cost you $10.

When you receive your permit sticker, securely attach it to the lower-left (driver's side) front windshield using the adhesive provided. Temporary methods like Velcro or magnets are not allowed and could result in enforcement actions.

Permit Costs and Payment

Fee Schedule by Permit Type

Once you've submitted your application and gathered the necessary documents, the next step is understanding the fees and payment process. Here's a breakdown of the permit costs:

• The standard beach driving permit, available to lottery winners and grandfathered holders, costs $135.00 per year.
• If you're only using the beach to launch a boat or trailer, that permit is $40.00.
• The disability beach driving permit is priced at $10.00.
• For commercial use, the charter vehicle permit costs $210.00, with an additional $40.00 fee for the charter trailer permit.

Now that you know the fees, here's how to handle payment and understand the duration of your permit.

How to Pay and Permit Duration

You can pay using cash, check (made payable to Walton County BCC), or a debit/credit card. Accepted card types include Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. To pay by phone with a credit card, contact Walton County Code Compliance at 622-0000. Keep in mind, a non-refundable service fee applies to all card transactions.

Once your payment is processed, your permit will be valid from June 1 to May 31 annually. If you're a grandfathered permit holder, renewing each year is crucial. Missing a renewal will result in losing your permanent status, requiring you to reapply through the lottery system the following year.

Beach Driving Rules You Must Follow

Once you have your permit in hand, there are specific rules you’ll need to follow for authorized beach driving.

Where You Can Enter and Drive

Your permit allows access to specific beach areas only. At Grayton Beach, you’ll find the main entry point at the end of Garfield Street. This is the go-to spot for driving, parking, and launching boats. Another option is Phillips Inlet (Inlet Beach) on South Walton Lakeshore Drive. However, this area is limited to a 66-foot stretch extending east from the west boundary line and is strictly for vessel launches or equipment drop-offs - parking isn’t allowed here.

Some areas, like Walton Park and Seagrove Beach (east of One Seagrove Place), are currently listed as temporarily closed.

If you launch at Phillips Inlet, be sure to move your vehicle to the designated parking area right after. Leaving it there could lead to a citation. For setting up beach gear like tents, stick to the top third of the beach. This keeps a 15-foot-wide path clear for emergency vehicles, which is mandatory.

Now, let’s talk about speed and parking rules that go hand-in-hand with these access points.

Speed Limits and Parking Restrictions

The speed limit on all designated beach driving areas is 5 miles per hour. This rule is in place to prioritize pedestrian safety.

"The speed limit of authorized vehicles along the designated limited access on the public beaches of Walton County shall be 5 miles per hour." - Walton County Ordinance 2003-07

Parking rules are just as strict. You can’t drive or park on the beach between 10:00 p.m. and sunrise, unless you’re actively launching or retrieving a boat. Additionally, vessels and personal watercraft must maintain idle speed within 750 feet of the shoreline. Breaking these rules can result in fines of up to $500, and any violation automatically revokes your permit.

By following these guidelines, you’ll avoid penalties and keep your permit intact.

Seasonal Rules and Enforcement

Beach driving permits are valid from June 1 through May 31 each year. Both the Walton County Sheriff’s Department and the County Code Compliance Department oversee enforcement of these regulations. They also have the authority to temporarily close the beach or restrict vehicle access during emergencies or unsafe conditions.

If you notice vehicles or vessels blocking public access points, you should contact the Walton County Sheriff’s Office or Code Compliance right away.

Abiding by these rules not only ensures public safety but also helps you maintain your permit privileges.

What You Need to Remember

Navigating the Walton County beach driving permit process requires attention to detail and adherence to specific rules.

First, obtaining a permit involves meeting strict eligibility criteria and participating in a competitive lottery system. Key details like eligibility requirements, vehicle specifications, application deadlines, and fees have been outlined above. If you're a grandfathered permit holder, you're exempt from the lottery but must renew your permit annually.

Once you secure your permit, make sure to follow the provided installation instructions for proper placement. Driving is restricted to designated areas, as specified in the rules section .

Keep in mind that violating beach driving regulations can result in fines of up to $500 and may lead to the revocation of your permit. Stick to the rules and stay within approved areas to ensure your permit remains valid.

For full details and step-by-step guidance, refer to the sections above.

FAQs

What if I miss the lottery deadline?

If you miss the lottery deadline for a Walton County beach driving permit, you're out of luck for that year. The application period typically wraps up around May 10, and if you're selected, you must purchase your permit by June 1. Miss these dates, and you'll have to wait until the next year’s lottery to apply again.

Can I use a leased or jointly owned 4x4?

Yes, you can use a leased or jointly owned 4x4 to get a Walton County beach driving permit. However, the vehicle's registration must be in the permit holder's name and properly documented. Additionally, you'll need to show proof that you either reside in Walton County or own property there, along with any other required identification.

How do I replace a lost permit sticker?

If you've lost your Walton County beach driving permit sticker, you can apply for a replacement decal through the local tax collector’s office. To do this, you'll need to provide proof of ownership and explain why a replacement is needed. There’s usually a fee of about $10 for the replacement. You can get the necessary forms either directly from the tax collector’s office or by reaching out to Walton County.

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