Frequently Asked Questions for Nonstructural Shoreline Stabilization Projects

The Coastal Barrier Resources Act (CBRA) prohibits most new federal expenditures and financial assistance within the John H. Chafee Coastal Barrier Resources System John H. Chafee Coastal Barrier Resources System
Learn more about the John H. Chafee Coastal Barrier Resources System, which was established under the Coastal Barrier Resources Act in 1982.

Learn more about John H. Chafee Coastal Barrier Resources System (CBRS or System), including projects to prevent the erosion of or to otherwise stabilize any inlet, shoreline, or inshore area. Notwithstanding these prohibitions, federal agencies, after consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, may make expenditures for activities that meet one of the exceptions under CBRA. Each affected agency is independently responsible for complying with the law and certifying annually to the Secretary of the Interior that they are in compliance with CBRA. CBRA does not restrict the use of private, state, or local funds or limit the issuance of federal permits (including any related environmental studies or planning).

This document provides information about the Department of the Interior's decision to reinstate its long-standing legal interpretation that federal funding for dredging within the CBRS to nourish beaches outside of the CBRS does not fall within the CBRA exception at 16 U.S.C. § 3505(a)(6)(G).