Deerfield Beach, FL Environmental Rules: Stormwater Management (2026)

Sec. 70-199 of the Deerfield Beach Code, in Chapter 70's Article VI Stormwater Management, puts the city's stormwater director in charge of administering the program created by Sec. 70-197's stormwater management utility. During and after construction, excavation or alteration work, site operators must maintain best management practices to reduce pollutants and sediment in runoff, and the city may require and review site plans and permits before work begins; construction over or interfering with an existing stormwater system is flatly prohibited. Industrial sites that contribute pollutant loadings can be inspected and monitored, and it is unlawful to deposit sludge-forming substances, floatable debris, oil, scum, petroleum products, or industrial and cooling wastewater into any surface area or the stormwater system without prior city or Broward County approval.

Landfill and dump operations must control and treat surface run-off so no significant pollutants reach receiving waters. Subsection (e) bars any dumping, spilling or discharging of non-stormwater material into a surface area or the stormwater system unless the city gives prior written approval, and requires spill response, control and clean-up. Alterations or obstructions to pump stations, sewer lines, structural controls, catch basins, culverts, wetlands or swales need prior written city approval. Any residential property on a septic tank must pass an inspection by a licensed septic tank service firm before the property is sold.

The city adopts Broward County Code Secs. 27-196 through 27-198 as its minimum effluent standards and water quality criteria for discharges to surface water. Inspectors carrying official identification may enter and inspect structures and premises, excluding residential interiors, during reasonable hours to verify compliance.