Florida Water Resources Act of 1972 - authorizes the Department of Environmental Protection and the water management districts (WMDs) to regulate the construction and operation of storm water management systems and the withdrawal, diversion, storage, and consumption of water.

The legislation states that if a project involves the management and storage of surface waters, which includes the construction, alteration, operation, or abandonment of any dam, impoundment, or reservoir, it must meet certain standards. Though these standards are unique to each WMD, general evaluation factors direct that the project must not:

• Adversely affect natural resources, fish, and wildlife;
• Alter the rate of flow of a watercourse by more than ten percent;
• Cause groundwater levels to be lowered below sea level;
• Cause change in groundwater or lake levels that would adversely affect water resources;
• Cause violations of the minimum flows and levels established by the district;
• Significantly induce saltwater or pollution encroachment;
• Endanger downstream property during floods;
• Cause adverse effects to lake stages or vegetation on land;
• Affect the water quality of the receiving body.

Florida’s Water Policy
The Office of Water Policy plays a key role in ensuring effective implementation of DEP’s responsibilities under the Florida Water Resources Act (Chapter 373, Florida Statutes). The office addresses statewide water management issues in coordination with the water management districts and other agencies. Examples include water plans for the DEP and water management districts, minimum flows and levels for the state’s water resources, and regional water supply planning.

Environmental Constraints on Water Supplies Under The Florida Water Resources Act (Ch 373, F.S.)

Clean Water Act History

EPA’s Clean Water Act

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Florida Legislature has the complete wording of bills and allows you to track their progress.

Working Waterfront Protection Act - This legislation addresses a major issue facing Florida today, preserving public access to Florida’s waterways. Working Waterfronts Legislation, Senate Bill 1316, Senate Community Affairs, HB 955, Rep. Kim Berfield

Contact Your Legislators at:

Florida House of Representatives