Sylvester Stallone is facing a dispute with his neighbors concerning an unusual modification he intends to implement on his property.
The actor, known for his roles in Rocky and Rambo, acquired a luxurious estate in Palm Beach, Florida, in 2020, with the purchase amounting to over $35 million.
This estate features a two-storey mansion, a guest house, a pool with a view of the North End of Palm Beach, and a private beachfront stretching 262 feet.
Stallone now seeks to install a floating barrier around his property as a protective measure.
The Palm Beach Daily News reports that the proposed barrier would protrude 8 inches above the water and extend about 10 inches below, offering a possible environmental benefit by preventing seaweed and other debris from clogging the waterways.
Regarding the impact on marine life, it is suggested there is enough space for marine creatures to navigate beneath or around the barrier.
However, some speculate that the 78-year-old actor’s aim is to deter boaters.
In January 2023, Stallone’s representatives submitted the application to the state of Florida, which was subsequently reviewed by the Army Corps in August 2024.
The Corps issued a notice for public comment in late October, allowing residents to express opposition to the plan.
A spokesperson stated: “The Corps is reviewing the project purpose to determine if the use of barrier for the purpose of deterring boaters within the public waterway is permittable.”
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection also received the proposal and has given Palm Beach residents until December 25 to comment on the matter.
The public notice has prompted Stallone’s neighbors to voice their concerns.
Bradford Gary expressed to Palm Beach Daily: “Usually when your neighbors are gonna do something, we’ve found in Palm Beach, usually they call.”
He continued, “A lot of neighbors are concerned.”
Bradford and his wife Susan have both opposed the project, questioning the claimed seaweed problems, as they have rarely noticed significant seaweed accumulation along the lake shore.
Opponents of Stallone’s plan also point out that the proposed area for the barrier includes a cove that serves as a haven for kayakers, paddle boarders, and others who may encounter difficulties in the strong inlet currents.