An environmental resource permit (ERP) is required before beginning any construction activity that would affect wetlands, alter surface water flows, or contribute to water pollution.

Environmental Resource Permits

As authorized by Part IV of Chapter 373, Florida Statutes, the District is responsible for permitting construction and operation of surface water management systems. The review process of an environmental resource permit application ensures that the permit will authorize activities or situations that are not harmful to the water resources or inconsistent with the public interest. Complete ERP information is available in the Environmental Resource Permit Information Manual as PDF files linked from this page. To request a print version of the manual, or for more information about permitting, contact the appropriate regulation department for your region.

Publications Incorporated by Reference

Chapter 6, the Florida Land Development Manual: A Guide to Sound Land and Water Management (Florida Department of Environmental Regulation, 1988) (Inc. by reference in 40D-400.443(2)(k) eff 10/3/95)
Memorandum of Understanding Between the Southwest Florida Water Management District and the Environmental Protection Commission of Hillsborough County Regarding Coordination of Regulatory Activities (October 19, 2005) (Inc. by Reference 40D-4.091(4))
Operating Agreement Between the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) Located within the Geographical Limits of the SWFWMD in Florida, Pursuant to Programmatic General Permit (PGP) PGP-SAJ-95, effective March 24, 2008 (Inc. by Reference 40D-4.091(5))
Operating Agreement Concerning Regulation Under Part IV, Chapter 373, F.S., Between Southwest Florida Water Management District and Department of Environmental Protection (July 1, 2007) (Inc. by Reference 40D-4.091(2))
Silviculture Best Management Practices (2009) (Inc. by reference in 40D-400.500(5)(h) eff 10/3/95)

Supplemental Information

Stormwater Systems in Your Neighborhood (July 2009)
Summary of ERP Responsibilities by FDEP (July 2007)
How to Operate and Maintain Your Stormwater Management System (August 2003)
Soil Types in the District (October 2001)
Tips Regarding Permits for Agricultural Operations (September 1999)

Forms

Some paper forms are still required until the ePermitting transition is complete. Please note: Data typed into these forms cannot be saved using free PDF-reader software. Please print your completed form if you would like a copy for your records. In order to save the form and data, additional software must be purchased.

“SWIFTMUD, Inc.” Not Associated with the District: Please be aware that a corporate entity doing business in Tampa and surrounding areas as “SWIFTMUD, Inc.” is not in any way affiliated with, or endorsed by, the District. The District has been advised that “SWIFTMUD, Inc.” is soliciting customers in southwest Florida through direct mailings that offer to prepare inspection reports for surface water management systems, promising customers that, for a stated fee, they “can be worry free of compliance issues with [the District] and its code enforcement.” Please be advised that “SWIFTMUD, Inc.” is not associated with the District in any way, and it does not have the District’s permission or authority to represent that any inspection reports submitted to the District will insure against compliance issues.