LANDOWNER RESPONSIBILITIES
PUB will launch the coastal protection code of practice in mid-2026. This will specify the planning, design, operation, and maintenance standards along the entire coastline.
As part of the regulations, they will be required to connect their defences with adjacent plots to ensure there are no gaps along the coastline that could allow seawater to enter during a coastal flooding event.
As the regulator of the measures, PUB will be able to designate a landowner to connect their measures to those on a neighbouring plot.
Once completed, all coastal protection measures will be recorded in a digital Coastal Protection Interpretation Plan, a map that will show the details of completed measures and will be accessible by contractors and registered users.
Beyond construction, landowners and long-term lessees will also be required to ensure the continued functionality of coastal protection measures on their land. This includes inspection, monitoring, maintenance and repair of structures.
Maintenance regimes for the measures will be detailed in the code of practice, and owners will need to keep records and submit them to PUB when required.
They will be required to inform PUB and submit rectification plans if damage is observed on the coastal protection structures.
Landowners must also appoint a flood protection manager to help them comply with the requirements. Flood protection managers will have to undergo training and will be the primary contact with PUB for coastal protection matters.
Owners with coastal deployable barriers will need to operate their measures when instructed by PUB, such as when there is an imminent flood risk.
These owners will need to prepare standard operating procedures and organise drills to ensure they can operate these barriers and that the structures are functional.
The frequency of these drills will be stated in the regulations.
Landowners and long-term lessees will also have to seek PUB’s approval before undertaking coastal protection works or carrying out works that may affect existing measures.
POTENTIAL PENALTIES
The Bill also gives PUB enforcement powers and prescribes penalties for actions that compromise the continuous line of defence, among other offences.
Potential penalties range from S$15,000 (US$11,800) to S$200,000, and may involve jail terms, depending on the nature and severity of the offence. Both landowners and members of the public can be taken to task.
Those who affect the continuous line of defence can be jailed for up to two years and/or fined up to S$200,000. Offences include owners who fail to put in place a coastal protection measure as required by the code of practice or by the prescribed date.
A person who damages or affects the functionality of a structure, or an owner who alters or demolishes a defence structure without PUB’s approval, could also be liable.
An owner who fails to comply with a written notice, clearance certificates or approvals could be fined up to S$20,000.