How to File a Notice of Intent for a Construction Stormwater (NPDES) Permit in Florida Using the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Business Portal

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) requires certain industrial facilities and construction projects to obtain a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit to comply with state and federal water quality regulations. Filing a Notice of Intent (NOI) is the first step in this process. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to submit your NOI using the FDEP Business Portal.

Step 1: Access the FDEP Business Portal

To begin the application process, navigate to the FDEP Business Portal. If you do not already have an account, you will need to register by providing your contact details and creating login credentials. Please be aware that account creation requires a mail-in form to be signed, notarized and shipped to the FDEP. Typical processing time is 3 business days before an account is approved. An automated email will be sent from the FDEP once approval is confirmed.

Once your account has been approved, the FDEP will issue a PIN specific to your account. This PIN is necessary for signature on any permit application. Additionally, at this time you will also be asked to create four security questions. These answers and account PIN will be asked every time a permit application is signed for submission.

Step 2: Log in and Select the NPDES Notice of Intent Application

Once logged in, locate the “Apply” section on the welcome screen, select “Discharge”, then “NPDES Notice of Intent.” This will open up a separate screen. Ensure you have the necessary documentation ready before proceeding.

Step 3: Provide Project and Applicant Information

Fill in the required details about your project, including:

• Project name and location

• Type of activity requiring the permit (e.g., construction, industrial discharge)

• Estimated start and completion dates

• Contact information for the responsible party

• Receiving waterbody

• MS4 Authority for project area

• Dewatering activity information

Step 4: Review and Certify the Application

Before submission, carefully review all the provided information to ensure accuracy. The responsible official must certify the NOI by electronically signing the application.

Step 5: Submit and Pay Applicable Fees

Submit the completed NOI through the portal. An application fee will be required to complete the submission and obtain approval. The fee can be processed directly through the portal.

Step 6: Monitor Application Status and Respond to Requests

After submission, you can track your application status in the Business Portal. If FDEP requests additional information, respond promptly to avoid delays in permit processing. Once approved, the FDEP will issue an automatic email including a Copy of Record for the Notice of Intent application and a Notice of Coverage with Facility ID number that will need to be submitted to the MS4 authority over the project area (if applicable) and posted at the site entrance for public view.

Conclusion

Filing a Notice of Intent for an NPDES permit in Florida can be frustrating for first-time users or those who do not regularly work in the system.

To avoid the hassle of dealing with the FDEP, contact a Certified Professional in Erosion and Sediment Control at Eco Permit Pros today! At Eco Permit Pros we take care of the permitting, so you can go back to doing the things that make you money!

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