This bill amends section 381.0065 of the Florida Statutes to establish that construction permits for onsite sewage treatment and disposal systems for single-family dwellings are valid indefinitely, except for work conducted seaward of the coastal construction control line. It prohibits municipalities or political subdivisions from requiring applicants for building permits to first obtain a construction permit for the sewage system from the department, aiming to streamline the permitting process and reduce regulatory burdens on homeowners. The bill also clarifies that municipalities cannot impose conditions on building permits that would necessitate a construction permit for onsite sewage systems.

Additionally, the bill outlines performance criteria for engineer-designed onsite sewage treatment and disposal systems, emphasizing public health and water quality protection. It mandates that these systems be certified by a registered professional engineer and reviewed by the county health department, which must act on permit applications within specified timeframes. The bill includes provisions for the Florida Keys, requiring compliance with stringent effluent quality standards and allowing for innovative systems. It also establishes maintenance requirements for these systems and clarifies conditions under which existing systems are not considered abandoned. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 1120 Filed: 381.0065