Coastal dunes are habitat for wildlife and support a high biodiversity of flora and fauna. They also keep beaches healthy by accreting sand and minimizing beach erosion rates. The dunes protect coastal infrastructure and upland properties from storm damage by blocking storm surge and absorbing wave energy. Therefore, a healthy dune system is an invaluable asset to coastal communities like Miami Beach. In 2016, the City of Miami Beach adopted the Dune Management Plan outlining the framework and specifications that the City will use to foster and maintain a healthy, stable, and natural dune system.

The City code does not have provisions to protect the dune system. An ordinance prohibiting the destruction or modification of the dune system will help to ensure the protection of this essential coastal resource.