Drinking Water Permitting

The permitting program ensures compliance with the federal and state Safe Drinking Act water standards for public water systems. The Environmental Protection Agency delegated primacy to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, which in turn delegated the program responsibilities to the Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County. 

Environmental Engineering staff review and permit drinking water treatment plant construction and modifications, distribution system extensions, and commercial single-service connections. 

Permits and clearances will be processed in the order received.  Do not expect to be expedited ahead of others unless it's absolutely time critical; such as a school opening.  Pressure from the contractor to complete the job is not considered time critical.  Florida Administrative Codes allow the Department 30 days to review general permits and 14 days for clearances.

Water line projects located on a single parcel with an existing service connection to the meter do not require an FDOH or DEP permit.  Fire line laterals do not require a Safe Drinking Water Act permit unless the line is extended down the right-of-way where the possibility of future service may be tapped, and/or supplying a building fire system.  If you are unsure whether a drinking water permit is required for a project, request a permit determination. Include a description of the project, along with a drawing attachment in PDF format.  The Department will respond with a permit determination letter. 

If you have any questions email us or to make an appointment call our office at 813-307-8059 and ask for a drinking water staff member.