In order to keep any fowl within the city, you must first obtain the written permission of the owners or occupants of all property abutting the property where the fowl will be kept. The City Manager will review the request and upon approval a permit will be issued for a period of no more than one (1) year.
Can I take my dog to the beach?
Dogs are allowed only on the designated Dog Beach on the west side of the Russell-Fields City Pier at Pier Park. Although, no animals are allowed on any other part of the beach, a dog defined as a service animal under ADA definition, is allowed on the beach, even beyond Dog Beach. Emotional support animals are not covered under this definition and as such, not allowed on the beach outside of Dog Beach. Fines start at $50 for animals outside the Dog Beach. For more information, visit https://www.pcbfl.gov/about-us/visitors/dogs
How do I report an issue to Animal Control?
Bay County Animal Control services all of Panama City Beach, they can be reached by calling (850) 767-3333.
Beach Violations
Can I have glass on the beach?
No. If glass is broken on the beach, it often becomes difficult to find all the broken pieces. Those broken pieces often cause severe injury when stepped on, and nobody wants to take a trip to the emergency room. Therefore, glass is prohibited on the beach and a citation is often issued for this violation.
Can I receive a ticket for swimming in the Gulf while a double red flag is displayed?
Yes. In 2019, the City Council imposed fines for failing to get out of the water during double-red flags, when instructed by City personnel. The Council revised the ordinance in 2020, and a first offense is a $500 fine, which drops to $250 if paid within 20 days. A second offense is $1,000.
Can I take my dog to the beach?
Dogs are allowed only on the designated Dog Beach on the west side of the Russell-Fields City Pier at Pier Park. Although, no animals are allowed on any other part of the beach, a dog defined as a service animal under ADA definition, is allowed on the beach, even beyond Dog Beach. Emotional support animals are not covered under this definition and as such, not allowed on the beach outside of Dog Beach. Fines start at $50 for animals outside the Dog Beach. For more information, visit https://www.pcbfl.gov/about-us/visitors/dogs
Flags and Banners
How many flags or banners are allowed to be displayed in front of a business?
A business may display three (3) flags of these two sizes, (5x5 or 4x8). One banner measuring 32 square feet. A permit for each banner must be obtained through the Building Department.
Grass
Is my neighbor's grass too high?
A violation occurs once grass exceeds twelve (12) inches in height on improved lots or eighteen (18) inches on unimproved lots.
Permits
Do I need a permit for a shed or storage container?
Depending on the size, location, and use of a shed or storage container, a permit may be required. Start your process by contacting the Building Department at (850) 233-5100, option 4, or email buildingdepartment@pcbfl.gov.
Trash
Am I required to have residential garbage collection service if the home is not my primary residence?
Yes, there are no exceptions to the ordinance requiring residential trash collection service.
Can something be done about my neighbor's overflowing trash can?
Yes, property owners are required to keep their properties free of litter. All trash bags must be placed inside a trash receptacle and it may only be left by the street on the day of the service.
Is it a violation for my neighbor to store assorted materials outside of their home?
It is a violation to accumulate rubbish, trash, junk, metal, lumber or other abandoned material outside of a home.
Where can I place my trash can for pick-up if I live along Front Beach Road or Oleander Drive?
If you live along these two streets your trash containers are not permitted to be visible to pedestrians standing within the right-of-way. You should contact your trash hauler to make special arrangements for pickup.
Tree Limb Overhang
What can I do about my neighbor's tree limb(s) hanging over my fence?
There are no regulations restricting the spread of trees over property lines. Such matters usually must be addressed between the affected neighbors.
Turtle Lighting
Does my home, condo unit, or business require turtle lighting?
All properties bordering the sandy beach must be compliant with Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission turtle lighting requirements. In short, protecting nesting sea turtles is extremely important, and you can help by shielding lighting and not allowing the actual bulbs from your light fixtures to be seen from the beach. More information can be found at https://myfwc.com/research/wildlife/sea-turtles/ and at Sea Turtles and Lights | FWC (myfwc.com).
Vehicle/ Parking
Can my neighbor have an old vehicle stored in their driveway?
Vehicles and trailers must be kept in good working order. Vehicles with flat tires or that are broken down and not running for more than fourteen (14) days are not permissible. Vehicles and/or trailers blocking the roadway may be reported to the police department by contacting their non-emergency number at (850) 233-5000.
