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Working as an excavation contractor isn’t just about moving rock, earth, and sand. It’s about respecting nature, following the rules of governing bodies, and protecting delicate coastal ecosystems. In the Florida Keys, the challenges run deep. Strict permitting requirements and fluctuating water tables mean excavation takes careful planning and precise execution. The success of later phases hinges on the quality of the excavation — setting the foundation for the project.
At Charley Toppino & Sons, we’ve spent decades working in this unique environment. From Key Largo to Key West, we know how to get the job done — sustainably and safely. That’s why we’re Florida’s go-to excavation contractor.
In this blog, we’ll cover:
Excavation contractors perform a specialized type of sitework that involves the removal of soil and rock to create a level surface for building. What would otherwise be a straightforward step in site preparation becomes more complicated for coastal projects with layers of oversight. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP), the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and local municipalities all have a say in how material is moved and where it can go. These agencies regulate everything from erosion control measures to materials staging on active jobsites.
Not every excavation contractor is equipped for this type of work. Projects in the Keys call for expertise, specialized equipment, and a proven history of working in regulated environments — qualities that set seasoned coastal contractors apart from general sitework providers. After building in Southeast Florida for over one hundred years, Charley Toppino & Sons is trusted by the authorities that have the power to stop or start your project.
Excavation contractors working along Florida’s coastlines have to follow some of the most stringent environmental laws in the country. Agencies such as the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP), the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and local municipalities regulate the following:
These rules are designed to balance the needs of development with the preservation of sensitive ecosystems that safeguard the shoreline. Compliance doesn’t stop at obtaining a permit; it requires ongoing monitoring and careful execution. Contractors must consider these factors:
Missteps can delay projects or cause lasting damage to the environment, which is why working with a contractor who understands these regulations is essential. Our team has deep experience navigating these overlapping laws and permitting processes, ensuring every project moves forward safely, responsibly, and in full compliance with environmental standards.
In the Florida Keys, projects involving drainage systems and underground utilities require precise excavation and careful planning. That’s because sitework has to withstand the constant pressure of tides, storms, and saltwater.
Critical drainage systems safely move stormwater away from property without polluting the ocean. And because utilities like sewer, water, and power are lifelines for hotels and marinas, they must be protected from saltwater intrusion to avoid costly failures. These considerations become even more urgent during hurricane season, when heavy rainfall and storm surges put maximum stress on coastal infrastructure.
At Charley Toppino & Sons, our approach balances durability with environmental responsibility. We build infrastructure that protects both property and the shoreline, ensuring long-term storm resilience. This combination of technical skill and ecological care is what sets us apart from other construction companies in South Florida.
Commercial projects demand a partner who understands and anticipates all the factors that impact coastal construction. When looking for a qualified excavation contractor, be sure that the three C’s are part of their approach:
Because Charley Toppino & Sons meets the three C’s criteria, our clients trust us with their most challenging excavation and sitework projects. We perform our due diligence, plan accordingly, and manage complex logistics, all thanks to a century-long history of building the Keys.
Since founder Charley Toppino arrived in the U.S. and blazed the trail in the early 1900s, we have completed thousands of projects in the Florida Keys and South Florida. Our local knowledge of permitting processes, combined with our self-performed capabilities, means projects are smooth, fast, and quality-controlled.
From protecting sand dunes to constructing storm-resilient structures, we take pride in building safely and sustainably. Our long-standing relationships with regulatory agencies, community organizations, and clients speak to the trust we’ve earned over one hundred years of business.
If you’re planning a project, choose an excavation contractor who understands the Keys from the ground up — and down the shoreline. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help.
