Unrivaled knowledge of Florida’s regulation and permitting of ground or surface water use.

Overview

Florida has five water management districts supervised by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection that regulate the use of ground or surface water.

The water management districts require consumptive use permits to withdraw and use large amounts of ground or surface water. Generally, to obtain one of these permits, the applicant must demonstrate that their use will be reasonable – beneficial, not interfere with another existing legal user, and be consistent with the public interest. Meeting these requirements can involve a host of other considerations, such as efficiency of the water use and the availability of alternative water sources. In several areas of Florida, the use of ground or surface water is limited due to concerns over environmental impacts. In such areas, obtaining a consumptive use permit is more difficult and can involved competing with other water users. Hopping Green & Sams has a depth of experience addressing these issues and can help applicants obtain, and maintain, waters supplies.