Florida Environmental Permitting Skill
When to Invoke
- Questions about SJRWMD permits
- Wetland assessment needs
- Flood zone determination
- Stormwater management
- Environmental constraints
SJRWMD Permit Types
ERP (Environmental Resource Permit)
Required for:
- Projects disturbing >1 acre
- Work in wetlands
- Stormwater systems
- Activities in/near surface waters
Thresholds:
- <4,000 sq ft impervious: Exempt
- 4,000 sq ft - 1 acre: Noticed General
-
1 acre: Individual permit
WUP (Water Use Permit)
Required for:
- Irrigation systems >1 acre
- Commercial water use
- Dewatering operations
Flood Zone Determination
FEMA Zone Designations
| Zone | Risk Level | Requirements | |------|------------|--------------| | X | Minimal | Standard construction | | A | High (no BFE) | Elevation required | | AE | High (BFE known) | Build above BFE | | VE | Coastal high hazard | Strict requirements |
Building Requirements by Zone
- Zone X: No special requirements
- Zone A/AE: Lowest floor ≥ BFE + 1 ft
- Zone VE: Open foundation, ≥ BFE + 1 ft
Wetland Assessment Process
-
Desktop Review
- Check National Wetlands Inventory (NWI)
- Review aerial imagery
- Identify potential wetland areas
-
Field Delineation (if needed)
- Hire certified wetland delineator
- Flag wetland boundaries
- Prepare delineation report
-
Permit Strategy
- Avoid: Best option
- Minimize: Reduce impact
- Mitigate: Compensate for unavoidable impact
Stormwater Requirements
Retention/Detention
- Pre vs post development runoff
- 25-year, 24-hour storm
- Water quality treatment
Common Solutions
- Retention ponds
- Dry detention
- Swales
- Underground systems
Timeline Estimates
| Permit | Review Time | |--------|-------------| | ERP General | 30 days | | ERP Individual | 90 days | | WUP | 90 days | | Wetland Delineation | 30-60 days |
Key Contacts
- SJRWMD: 386-329-4500
- FDEP: 850-245-2118
- US Army Corps: 904-232-1666