Belleair Considers Ordinance 572 to Overhaul Well Regulations and Development Restrictions

Belleair residents face potential changes to local well regulations and development restrictions as the Town of Belleair considers Ordinance No. 572. This proposed ordinance amends Sections 74-432 and 74-433 of the Land Development Code, impacting both shallow and deep well requirements across the town.

The ordinance specifically updates two citations within Section 74-432, which addresses 'Restrictions on Development and Land Use,' to align with the Florida Administrative Code. This adjustment ensures local regulations reflect current state standards for land development.

Significant changes are also proposed for Section 74-433, which currently governs well permits and their installation and maintenance. Ordinance No. 572 seeks to remove permitting and inspection requirements for shallow wells. For deep wells, the proposal eliminates permitting, inspection, and flow meter requirements. Additionally, the ordinance would delete the mandate for water wells to comply with both state and town requirements simultaneously.

The Town of Belleair is providing a Business Impact Estimate as a courtesy, in accordance with section 166.041(4), Florida Statutes. The town states that state law does not require this estimate for the proposed ordinance. However, officials provide it to avoid any procedural issues that could affect the ordinance's enactment. The proposed ordinance is required for compliance with Federal or State law or regulation.

Ordinance No. 572 also includes provisions for repealing conflicting ordinances, codification, severability, and an effective date. Residents interested in understanding the full scope of these changes should review the proposed ordinance and the accompanying Business Impact Estimate.