Everglades Permit Rules for EAA & C-139 Basins Outlined

West Palm Beach landowners and entities discharging to drainage basins within the Everglades Agricultural Area (EAA) or C-139 Basin must obtain an Everglades Works of the District (EWOD) Permit. The South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) requires these permits for lands that ultimately drain to the Everglades, ensuring adherence to water quality and quantity standards. These standards are vital for the region, extending from the Intracoastal Waterway to Lake Okeechobee.

The EWOD Permit approves a best management practices (BMP) plan and, where applicable, a discharge monitoring plan. The primary goals are to reduce phosphorus loads by 25 percent from the EAA Basin and maintain historic phosphorus discharge loads within the C-139 Basin. These measures are critical for the health and ecological balance of the Everglades.

The SFWMD has streamlined the application, compliance information, and payment process for EAA and C-139 Basin permits through the RegPermitting website. Landowners can upload water quality data and BMP Annual Reports using the ‘Submit Compliance Information’ link. The ‘Search Records’ link allows users to review permit files and documentation.

District staff review permit applications to ensure proposed activities align with the District's objectives, will not harm water resources, and include a feasible BMP Plan and, if required, a feasible Discharge Monitoring Plan. All other necessary District approvals must also be secured. Permit fees vary based on activity size and location; specific fee schedules are available for EAA and C-139 Basin permits.

Assistance is available via the RegPermitting Hotline at (561) 682-2281 or [email protected].