An industrial project is by nature a destructive process.  One must first destroy something in order to construct upon it.  Therefore, the destructive and constructive process needs to be regulated in order to lessen the impact on the surrounding environment.  There are environmental rules and regulations put in place by governments, councils, and local ordinances.  Environmental permits also need to be completed so that construction companies can get their industrial projects done correctly and legally.

Types of Environmental Permits

The majority of industrial operations maintain permits surrounding water quality, hazardous waste, and air quality compliance.

In Florida, there are several state and federal laws and regulations that govern the environmental permitting process.  At the federal level, the Clean Water Act and the Clean Air Act set the standards for water and air pollution permits, respectively.  These are implemented and enforced by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. 

At the state level, the FDEP oversees the state’s environmental regulatory framework, which includes the following Florida Statutes; Chapters 373 (water resources), 376 (pollutant discharge prevention and removal), and 403 (environmental control).

In addition, the Florida Administrative Code contains rules and regulations that govern various aspects of environmental permitting, like water resource management (Chapters 62-330 and 62-331), air pollution control (Chapters 62-210), and waste management (Chapters 62-701).

Some of the most common types of environmental permits include:

Environmental Clearing Permit

Environmental Dewatering Permit

Storm Water Discharge Permit

Groundwater Discharge Permit

Chart Reporting Status Permit

When and Why You Need Them

Unfortunately, there aren’t any universal standards regarding when environmental permits are or are not required.  Generally speaking, environmental permits are necessary when the nature of the work being performed could theoretically affect the environment in a manner that could also impact the health of people and/or animal populations in the neighboring areas.  As new ways are constantly being identified as impacting the environment, the permitting process will continue to be frequently adjusted as well.

Navigating the Permitting Landscape

Navigating the environmental permitting process can be challenging, even for a seasoned organization.  Environmental laws are constantly evolving and it is difficult to keep up with these changes.  Navigating the permitting process becomes more complex because the requirements between local, state, and federal agencies sometimes overlap.  Companies that are affected by environmental requirements are routinely faced with legal disputes, compliance headaches, public relations challenges, and legislative roadblocks.

More and more, companies are looking to those who can navigate these rough waters for them since they do not have the time or resources to establish relationships with local, state, and federal regulatory agencies.

Regulatory Compliance Made Simple

I’m Rob Robinson, and I realize that environmental permits are crucial in protecting Florida’s natural resources, public health, and the environment.  However, I also understand that the permitting system can be a minefield of seemingly unending bureaucracy. 

As a Board Certified city, county, and local government attorney, I have spent countless hours guiding both public and private clients through all stages of the environmental permitting process.  Whether you need waste management permits, wastewater discharge permits, or air emissions permits, I can simplify the process for you.

Expert Advice for Permit Success

I offer experienced advice on the environmental permitting process, which can save you time and resources, as well as reduce legal risks and an increased likelihood of approval.  Please contact my office to see how I can assist you with all of your environmental permitting needs and questions.