Wetlands are those areas defined by Florida Statutes subsection 373.019(25). These areas are inundated or saturated by water long enough to create oxygen-poor soils which, under normal circumstances, supports wetland vegetation growth as defined in Chapter 62-340.450 of the Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.). Impacts to wetlands, including clearing, filling or excavation, typically require an Environmental Resource Permit (ERP) from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) or the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD).
Generally, parcels zoned for single-family residence are handled by DEP. Parcels zoned for multi-family residence, commercial and agriculture are handled by SFWMD.
Wetland Permit Agencies (Federal and State Agencies):
South Florida District Office
2295 Victoria Ave., Suite 364, Fort Myers, FL 33902-2549
Telephone: 239-344-5600 / Fax: 850-412-0590
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Fort Myers Service Center 2301 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33901
Telephone: 239-338-2929 / Fax: 239-338-2936
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Fort Myers Regulatory Office 1520 Royal Palm Square Blvd., Suite 310, Fort Myers, FL 33919
Telephone: 239-334-1975 / Fax: 239-334-0797
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Mangroves
Mangrove Pruning Regulations:
Since July 1, 1996, Lee County has generally not been involved in the regulation of mangrove trimming. Mangrove trimming is regulated by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection through the Mangrove Trimming and Preservation Act (Florida Statutes Sections 403.9321-403.9333).