Seawall Requirements for Gold Coast Developments

The Gold Coast is one of Australia’s most dynamic and sought-after coastal regions. For developers, this presents incredible opportunities but also unique challenges. Coastal erosion and strict regulatory requirements mean that any beachfront development must review, construct and maintain a seawall to Gold Coast City Council standards. 

At International Coastal Management (ICM), we partner with developers to design and implement seawalls that meet these standards while supporting sustainable and profitable developments. 

Why Developers Need Certified Seawalls 

As a developer, you’re responsible for ensuring that new beachfront projects comply with the City Plan Coastal Erosion Hazard Overlay Code. This includes constructing certified terminal seawalls along the A-Line before any development begins. Understanding the advantages of seawalls is crucial, as they not only provide long-term shoreline stability but also ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.

These seawalls are designed to:

• Prevent property loss and reduce damage from storms. 

• Comply with regulations by meeting City Plan requirements for beachfront properties. 

• Enhance longevity 

Gold Coast Regulations 

Seawalls on the Gold Coast must align with the A-Line, established after major storms in the 1960s and 1970s. This ensures a continuous, and connected terminal seawall system along the coast, protecting both public and private property.

Alongside this, key regulations include: 

• Standard Seawall Design Drawings for consistent construction

• Coastal dune restoration and fencing requirements

• Environmental impact assessments for tidal and prescribed tidal works

Steps to Build a Seawall for Your Gold Coast Development

At ICM, we have been reviewing, designing and constructing terminal seawalls on the Gold Coast for over 40 years. Our RPEQ certified engineers will guide you through the process, ensuring your seawall is durable and compliant with all council standards. Below is a summary of the Gold Coast Requirements.

1. Review the City Plan and Guidelines 

Review the City Plan Coastal Erosion Hazard Overlay Code and related guidelines and requirements. These documents outline the standards for seawall construction. 

2. Obtain Approvals

Secure development permits from: 

• City of Gold Coast

• Relevant Queensland Government departments for tidal works

The Gold Coast City also requires a bond before work begins, to ensure satisfactory restoration of dunes, infrastructure, certification and approvals.

3. Engage Coastal Engineering Experts 

Your seawall must be designed by a Registered Professional Engineer of Queensland (RPEQ) and built to meet strict standards. At ICM, Our RPEQ-certified engineers bring decades of experience to create designs that are durable, compliant, and environmentally integrated. 

4. Construct and Certify the Seawall 

Use an experienced team like ICM to ensure compliance with pre-construction requirements, construction regulations and quality standards. 

5. Dune Restoration 

After seawall development, dunes must be reformed with clean sand, native vegetation, and have dune protection fencing installed as required. 

ICM’s Expertise for Developers 

ICM is your trusted partner in seawall construction, offering: 

• Turnkey Solutions: From design to final certification

• Compliance Expertise: Navigating local and state regulatory requirements

• Sustainable Practices: Incorporating dune restoration and nature-based solutions

• Track Record: Over 1,200 successful coastal projects completed worldwide

Our solutions not only meet the Gold Coast’s standards but also enhance the sustainability and market appeal of your development. 

Contact us for a free quote today.