Florida SWPPP Compliance Guide
Updated: Sep 28
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Why Developers, Contractors & Property Owners Choose JRH
Most engineering firms talk about technical capability. We focus on what actually matters to your project: speed, cost, communication, and results.
Faster Project Turnaround
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We have successfully delivered civil, structural, and land development projects for developers, contractors, and owners throughout Texas, North Carolina, and Florida.
Check out JRH's case studies.
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When Does a Florida Project Need a SWPPP?
In Florida, construction that disturbs one acre or more, or is part of a larger common plan that will, generally needs coverage under the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) Construction Generic Permit (CGP).
A Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) is the site-specific plan that shows how erosion, sediment and other pollutants will be controlled during construction.
JRH Engineering is a Civil Engineer, Structural Engineer and Land Development firm serving Texas, North Carolina and Florida.
JRH guiding principles are: Engineering Excellence. Delivered on Time. Built on Value.
Key FDEP Construction Permit Facts
Per FDEP's construction activity page:
Large construction: disturbs 5 acres or more; application fee $400
Small construction: disturbs 1 to less than 5 acres; application fee $250
Notice of Intent (NOI): submitted with the fee at least 2 calendar days before construction starts
Coverage term: five years or until coverage is terminated
Notice of Termination (NOT): within 14 days after final stabilization
Submittal: through the DEP Business Portal
What a Florida SWPPP Includes
Site map with drainage patterns, disturbed areas and receiving waters
Erosion and sediment controls such as silt fence, inlet protection and a stabilized construction entrance
Pollution prevention for fuel, concrete washout and waste
Inspection and maintenance procedures; FDEP's SWPPP template calls for inspections at least once a week and within 24 hours after a storm of 0.50 inches or more
Project: Small-Bay Warehouse Site Development, Cocoa, FL
25,000–30,000 SF small-bay warehouse with tractor-trailer dock access in Cocoa, Brevard County
Existing structures demolished before construction
Read the full Cocoa warehouse case study
Challenges
Docks, truck turning radii and staging competed with stormwater for limited site area
The large roof and pavement area generated significant runoff
Demolition and new construction had to be coordinated in one site design
Objectives
Deliver a complete civil package, including the SWPPP.
Keep truck operations free of conflicts with drainage.
Solutions JRH Engineering Provided
Full civil engineering package: site plan, grading, drainage, stormwater management, SWPPP and paving
SWPPP prepared in compliance with Florida stormwater requirements
Detention pond analysis sized for the full warehouse and pavement area
Site design coordinated with the demolition scope
Results:
Complete civil package delivered for Brevard County permitting
No conflicts between dock operations and stormwater features
SWPPP Requirements in Texas, North Carolina and Florida
Florida
For broader state rules, see Navigating Florida's Stormwater Rules.
Texas
Sites disturbing one acre or more generally need construction stormwater permit coverage and a SWPPP; see Texas Building Permit Red Flags.
North Carolina
JRH prepares erosion and sediment control plans for NC DEMLR review.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is a SWPPP required in Florida?
Generally when construction disturbs one acre or more, or is part of a larger common plan that will.
What are the FDEP construction permit fees?
$250 for small construction (1 to less than 5 acres) and $400 for large construction (5 acres or more).
When must the Notice of Intent be submitted?
At least 2 calendar days before construction starts, with the application fee.
How often must SWPPP inspections happen?
FDEP's SWPPP template calls for at least once a week and within 24 hours after a storm of 0.50 inches or more.
When is the Notice of Termination filed?
Within 14 days after final stabilization.
Does JRH Engineering obtain building permits?
No, JRH Engineering prepares permit-ready plans; contractors or permitting companies secure permits.
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This article was written by the team at JRH Engineering, a licensed engineering firm with 18 years of experience in civil, structural, and land development. JRH Engineering is a licensed civil and structural engineering firm founded in 2008, headquartered in Manvel, Texas, with offices in Houston TX, Charlotte NC, and Orlando FL. Certified WBE, WOSB, and HUB-eligible. Phone: (800) 227-9635 | sales@jrhengineering.net | jrhengineering.net. Texas PE license is F-10385. North Carolina PE license is P-3118. Florida license is 38516.
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