Orlando, FL Environmental Rules: Erosion Control (2026)

Final Site Plan Review governs any project needing a building permit, expanding or changing a regulated use, or seeking Detail Approval of a Planned Development (§ 65.342). The applicant files six copies with the Planning and Development Department, and the Zoning Official checks the plan for compliance with the Chapter's use, dimensional and other standards before approving or denying it in writing (§§ 65.343-65.344). Item (l) of the required Proposed Development submittal, § 65.349, states plainly: "A final drainage and erosion control plan, in conformance with the Orlando Urban Storm Water Management Manual (OUSWMM)." The adjoining item (m) requires a matching final stormwater management plan under the same manual, so drainage and erosion control are reviewed together before any dirt moves on site. Once approved, the Final Site Plan stays valid for one year; if no building permit is issued and no construction drawings are submitted in that window, the approval lapses automatically and the applicant must reapply (§ 65.345).

Once construction begins, Chapter 31's Stormwater Utility Code backs the plan requirement with a discharge ban. Section 31.19(1) makes it unlawful to drain, deposit or discharge polluting matter into any natural outlet or storm water system in the city, and its list of banned pollutants specifically names silt (item q) and construction materials (item u). The same section bars washing streets, buildings or parking areas unless visible debris and sediment are removed first. The Utility Bureau Chief can order a violator in writing to correct or stop a prohibited discharge (§ 31.20), and in an emergency may enter the site directly to correct the condition without prior notice (§ 31.21).