Paths: Dunes can lose their protective cover of vegetation along fot paths where people access the beach.  Over time, these paths can act as conduits for floodwaters, wave runup, and overwash.

A path that curves or zig-zags near the seaward edge of the dune can slow erosion and flooding in the back dune. The main turn of the path should occur near the crest of the dune. Path rerouting will likely require a permit-by-rule from the Maine DEP since it impacts dune vegetation.

Dune walkovers: To protect dunes from foot-traffic that can contribute to erosion, elevated walkways or bridges can be constructed perpendicular to the natural sand dune. Temporary structures may be in place for up to 7 months of the year.

Both temporary and permanent walkovers would likely require full permitting from the Maine DEP under the Coastal Sand Dune Rules.

In Maine, no specific guidance is provided by the DEP for construction of walkovers in terms of elevation, slat spacing, or design; dune walkovers are reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Maine DEP suggests contacting their southern Maine regional office to set up a pre-application conference if such a structure is proposed. Usually, walkovers are elevated off the surface of the dune about three feet, with sufficient spacing between individual slats so that dune grass can receive needed sunlight. Most are constructed with handrails and steps, or if used for public access, ADA-compatible ramps. Typically, they must be less than 10 feet wide for public use, and less than 4 feet wide for private use.

Several guides for construction guidance are available from other states, including Florida and Texas, and the FEMA Coastal Construction ManualVolume III, Appendix I.