---
name: environmental-permitting
description: "Florida environmental permitting expertise. Invoke for SJRWMD permits, wetland assessments, flood zone analysis, or stormwater requirements."
allowed-tools:
  - Read
  - Write
  - Bash
---

# 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

1. **Desktop Review**
   - Check National Wetlands Inventory (NWI)
   - Review aerial imagery
   - Identify potential wetland areas

2. **Field Delineation** (if needed)
   - Hire certified wetland delineator
   - Flag wetland boundaries
   - Prepare delineation report

3. **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