FDEP Stormwater Inspection Requirements for Florida Contractors

Florida’s Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) takes stormwater compliance seriously — and so should you. Here’s what every Florida contractor needs to know about inspection requirements under the Construction Generic Permit (CGP).

Inspection Frequency

The CGP requires stormwater inspections at one of two intervals:

• Option 1: Every 7 calendar days
• Option 2: Every 14 calendar days, plus within 24 hours of any rainfall event of 0.5 inches or more

Most contractors choose the 14-day option, but the storm event trigger means you need a reliable partner who can respond quickly when weather hits — which in Central Florida happens frequently during the rainy season (June–October).

What Gets Inspected?

During each inspection, the following must be evaluated and documented:

• All BMPs (silt fences, inlet protections, stabilized entrances, sediment basins, etc.) — are they installed correctly and functioning?
• Disturbed areas — is erosion occurring beyond controlled areas?
• Material storage — are chemicals, fuels, and construction materials properly stored and contained?
• Discharge points — is sediment-laden water leaving the site?
• Corrective actions — have previously identified issues been addressed?

Documentation Standards

Every inspection must produce a written report that includes:

1. Date and time of the inspection
2. Name and qualifications of the inspector
3. Weather conditions at the time of inspection
4. Description of each BMP and its condition
5. Identified deficiencies and required corrective actions
6. Photos documenting site conditions
7. Certification that the inspection was performed in accordance with the SWPPP

These records must be kept on-site and available for review by FDEP inspectors at any time.

Common Violations

The most common stormwater violations found on Florida construction sites:

• Unmaintained silt fences — fallen, undercut, or full of sediment
• Unprotected storm drain inlets — allowing sediment into the stormwater system
• Inadequate stabilization — exposed soil without temporary or permanent cover
• Missing or outdated inspection records — the paperwork matters
• Failure to inspect after storms — the 24-hour window is strict

The Clearmark Approach

At Clearmark Environmental, we don’t just check boxes. Our inspections follow a rigorous process:

• Same-day digital reports with photo documentation
• Clear corrective action items with priority levels
• 24-hour storm event response — we’re on-site when it matters most
• FDEP-ready documentation that stands up to regulatory review

Ready to get your inspection program in order? View our packages or schedule a free walkthrough to see where your site stands.