Broward County Surface Water Management Licenses

Regulations

The regulation and management of surface water following a rainstorm in South Florida are crucial to preventing flooding, mitigating environmental damage, and ensuring the sustainable use of water resources. Given the region’s flat terrain and susceptibility to heavy rainfall, effective drainage systems are essential for maintaining public safety and protecting both residential and commercial properties from water damage.

Broward County’s Water Resource Division, through its Surface Water Management Program, is responsible for overseeing and licensing the construction, modification, and maintenance of surface water management systems. These systems must comply with the Broward County Code of Ordinances, Chapter 27, Article V, and Chapter 373 of the Florida Statutes, which set forth the legal framework for stormwater management and environmental protection. By enforcing these regulations, Broward County aims to reduce flooding, improve water quality, and ensure the responsible stewardship of the region’s surface water resources.

The Water Resource Division is dedicated to preserving Broward County’s water resources by implementing policies that encourage responsible water management. In addition to ensuring that stormwater management systems function efficiently, the division also promotes sustainable water use and environmental conservation efforts.

At EPAC Environmental Services, Inc., we play a vital role in helping property owners, developers, and businesses navigate the complexities of surface water management compliance. As an industry leader in environmental services, we assist our clients with obtaining, renewing, and maintaining Broward County Surface Water Management Licenses, ensuring that their systems meet county and state regulatory requirements. Our team conducts thorough site evaluations, implements proactive maintenance strategies, and provides expert solutions to help clients avoid costly penalties while optimizing their drainage infrastructure for long-term efficiency.

By working closely with Broward County’s regulatory agencies, we provide guidance on stormwater compliance, flood prevention, and sustainable water resource management. Our comprehensive environmental consulting and water environment services help businesses and property owners remain compliant with evolving regulations while protecting their assets and the surrounding environment.

With our expertise in environmental compliance and drainage system maintenance, we ensure that surface water management systems operate at peak efficiency and adhere to all necessary licensing requirements. If you need assistance with your Broward County Surface Water Management License, contact EPAC Environmental Services, Inc. today at (954) 974-7055 to ensure your system remains compliant, functional, and prepared for South Florida’s demanding weather conditions.

History of Surface Water Management

Broward County’s surface water management practices have evolved significantly over the decades to address the challenges of flooding, water quality, and environmental sustainability. Early developments in the region were constructed on filled wetlands, with storm sewers and open ditches serving as the primary means of drainage. These systems lacked proper flood control measures, resulting in frequent flooding of homes, businesses, and roadways. Additionally, untreated storm runoff carried pollutants, debris, and sediments directly into canals, rivers, and other natural waterways, severely impacting water quality and local ecosystems.

Recognizing the urgent need for improved water management, Broward County established regulatory guidelines to ensure that surface water is controlled, redirected, and treated effectively. Today, stringent surface water management regulations require all new developments and infrastructure projects to incorporate stormwater drainage systems that help prevent flooding and protect water resources. These modern drainage systems are engineered to manage both water quantity and quality, ensuring that stormwater is properly stored, filtered, and directed away from vulnerable areas.

Components of Surface Water Management Systems

To effectively control flooding and minimize pollution, surface water management systems may include a variety of engineered drainage solutions, such as:

• Storm drains – Underground piping systems that collect and transport stormwater away from streets and properties.
• Street gutters – Channels along roads that direct surface runoff into storm drains.
• Weirs – Structures that control water flow and regulate water levels in drainage systems.
• Sluice gates – Adjustable gates used to manage the flow of water in canals, reservoirs, and other water bodies.
• Dams – Barriers that help regulate water levels and prevent uncontrolled flooding.
• Pumps – Mechanical devices that move stormwater from low-lying areas to higher drainage points.
• Swales – Shallow, vegetated channels that allow stormwater to infiltrate the ground and reduce runoff.
• French drains – Subsurface drainage systems that help redirect excess groundwater and surface water.
• Culverts – Enclosed pipes or tunnels that allow water to pass under roads, railways, or embankments.
• Drainage wells – Vertical shafts that collect and disperse excess water into subsurface layers.
• Dry retention areas – Depressions designed to temporarily store stormwater and allow it to infiltrate the ground.
• Storm runoff treatment lakes or wetlands – Natural or engineered water bodies that help filter out pollutants and improve water quality.

Surface Water Management Licenses

In Broward County, all new developments and existing properties undergoing modifications to their surface water management systems must go through a review and licensing process to ensure compliance with Broward County Ordinances and Florida Statutes. This process is designed to uphold flood control measures, water quality standards, and environmental sustainability by regulating how stormwater is collected, treated, and discharged. Whether a project involves the construction of a new stormwater drainage system or modifications to an existing infrastructure, obtaining the necessary licensing is a crucial step to avoid non-compliance penalties and ensure that the system functions efficiently.

Once licensed, surface water management systems must undergo a renewal process every five (5) years to confirm that they remain in full compliance and continue to operate as originally designed. These renewals involve thorough inspections of key drainage components, including storm drains, retention ponds, culverts, and pumps, to identify potential blockages, sediment buildup, or structural deficiencies that could lead to flooding or environmental hazards. Regular renewal and maintenance not only protect properties from costly water damage but also preserve water quality by ensuring that pollutants from stormwater runoff are properly managed before entering natural waterways.

In addition to Broward County’s regulatory oversight, smaller drainage districts within the county also have their own permitting programs for surface water management. These districts follow a similar five-year renewal process, with the same goal of ensuring effective stormwater control and flood prevention.

Navigating these regulations can be complex, but EPAC Environmental Services, Inc. is here to assist with the licensing, renewal, and maintenance of your surface water management system. Our team provides expert guidance to help property owners remain compliant and ensure their drainage systems are functioning optimally. Contact EPAC Environmental Services, Inc. today to streamline your licensing and renewal requirements and safeguard your property from potential flooding and environmental risks.