Consumptive Use Permitting Consistency
The Department of Environmental Protection is leading a statewide
effort to improve consistency in the Consumptive/Water Use
Permitting Programs implemented by the Water Management Districts.
The individual water management district consumptive use permitting
rules, while all developed under the authority of Ch. 373, F.S., are
inconsistent among the districts. While some of the differences may
be based on differing physical and natural characteristics, others
are the result of development of separate rules and procedures
developed over time. This results in confusion for the regulated
public, particularly along the border areas of the districts, and
inequitable treatment of similar applicants in different districts.
Additionally, the development of separate procedures and rules is
costly and inefficient.
The Department’s goals include:
- Make programs less confusing for applicants, particularly those
who work in more than one District;
- Treat applicants equitably statewide;
- Provide consistent protection of the environment;
- Streamline the process; and
- Incentivize behavior that protects water resources, including
conservation.
In November and December 2011, the Department held 10 small group
meetings around the state. The Department met with stakeholders from the
following groups: public water supply, agricultural water use,
industrial use, recreational and small commercial self supply, and
environmental interests. The stakeholders identified many issues that
should be addressed to improving consistency in consumptive use
permitting. The Department and the Water Management Districts have
formed a core team that will coordinate CUPcon Issue Workgroups to
develop solutions for the issues identified during stakeholder meetings.
Changes developed to promote consistency and efficiency will be codified
through policy, rulemaking, or legislation as appropriate.
Documents
- Issues Identified in Stakeholder Sessions:
Presentations
2012
FDAC’s Office of Water Policy SWFWMD Area Meeting, May 17
FDAC’s Office of Water Policy Spring Gathering, May 15
CLE International’s 8th Annual Conference on Florida Water
Policy, May 11
Reclaimed Water Policy Work Group Meeting, May 2
2011
Stakeholder Meetings, November – December
Contacts
Ann B. Shortelle,
Ph.D.
Director, Office of Water Policy
850-245-3143
Janet G.
Llewellyn
Policy Administrator
850-245-3139
Kathleen P.
Greenwood
Environmental Consultant
850-245-3147
Last updated:
May 22, 2012
2012 State of Florida