How to Prepare for an Environmental Resource Permit (ERP) Review
Florida ERP submittals need more than just engineering plans.
Before breaking ground in Florida, many projects must obtain an Environmental Resource Permit (ERP) from either the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) or a Water Management District (WMD). These permits evaluate how your development will affect wetlands, surface waters, and stormwater systems.
In this article, RSP Engineers explains how to get ahead of the ERP review process—from plan preparation to agency coordination—so you can reduce delays and secure your permit approval faster.
What Is the ERP Review Process?
The Environmental Resource Permit review process assesses how your site will impact environmental resources, especially wetlands and surface waters. It involves both engineering and environmental scrutiny, and is required for:
Stormwater management systems
Wetland impacts and mitigation
Construction near lakes, rivers, or floodplains
Major grading or earthwork
Agencies involved may include FDEP or one of Florida’s five Water Management Districts (e.g., SFWMD, SWFWMD).
What to Submit with Your ERP Application
Successful ERP applications require detailed technical and environmental documents. Here's what reviewers expect:
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Stormwater management plan | Demonstrates compliance with water quantity and quality regulations |
| Wetland delineation map | Identifies protected areas that must be avoided or mitigated |
| Environmental impact report | Details the project’s impact on wetlands, wildlife, and natural systems |
| Construction drawings | Shows grading, drainage, erosion control, and utility plans |
| Permit application forms (FDEP or WMD) | Official documentation for agency processing and public record |
Strategies to Avoid ERP Review Delays
ERP reviews can trigger Requests for Additional Information (RAIs), slowing your timeline. Here’s how to avoid them:
Coordinate early with FDEP or WMD staff – Pre-application meetings help surface issues early.
Complete your wetland delineation before design – Design around jurisdictional areas.
Incorporate Best Management Practices (BMPs) – Include erosion controls, water quality features, and buffers.
Use recent survey and geotechnical data – Outdated info often leads to RAIs.
Work with civil + environmental engineers together – Integrated teams avoid conflicting assumptions.
Why ERP Reviews Matter
A delay in ERP approval can halt your entire development schedule. These permits are often a prerequisite for:
Site construction authorization
Local building permits
Wetland mitigation credits or plans
Poor planning can add months to your timeline—especially if wetland impacts are underestimated or your stormwater design doesn’t meet basin-specific rules.
Conclusion
Environmental Resource Permits are one of the most critical approvals for Florida land development. By aligning your stormwater and environmental planning from the beginning, and coordinating early with regulators, you can streamline the review and get your permit faster.
FAQs
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If your project alters wetlands, floodplains, or surface water systems, or installs new drainage systems, an ERP is likely required. Learn more from the FDEP ERP Guide.
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Either FDEP or the regional Water Management District (WMD) will review your application, depending on the location and nature of the project.
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Yes, but it’s risky if your ERP application triggers a Request for Additional Information. Many developers sequence ERP first.
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You may face stop-work orders, fines, and costly restoration. Always confirm jurisdictional wetlands before clearing or grading.
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You can search the FDEP OCULUS database or the individual Water Management District databases (e.g., SFWMD ePermitting).
Looking for Civil + Environmental Due Diligence Support?
RSP Engineers delivers civil engineering and environmental services across Florida. Contact us for comprehensive land development support—from soil reports to stormwater permitting.
