Stormwater Inspection Mandate Up Wednesday in Senate

CS/CS/SB 810 (Burgess) imposes new, unfunded mandates on municipal separate storm sewer system (MS4) entities by requiring an initial inspection of their entire permitted stormwater system by September 1, 2026.

In future years, annual inspections and reports would be due each June 1, and would focus on any vulnerable infrastructure identified in the initial assessment. A Department of Environmental Protection (DEP)-developed checklist would be required to be completed and submitted to both DEP and the Division of Emergency Management. The bill will result in large recurring costs for local governments.

The Florida League of Cities opposes CS/CS/SB 810 because it would be a significant unfunded mandate for cities with stormwater systems. Cities are already meeting current inspection requirements, and this all-encompassing mandate is excessive and unnecessary. 

CS/CS/SB 810 will be considered by the full Senate on Wednesday, April 9. It is crucial to share the impact this mandate will have on your city.

Please ask your staff to answer the following questions and share this information with your Senator. It’s also important to share the context of the unique flooding your city experienced this past hurricane season, especially those cities hit with multiple hurricanes in a short time.

1. How many miles of permitted stormwater structures does your city own (the total length)?
2. What percentage are you currently inspecting annually?
3. What will this mean for your city if this bill passes? (Ex: The fiscal impact based on the cost to inspect your entire stormwater system estimated at $50-$75 per linear foot; the burden on staff, as well as additional contracted services needed to meet the new annual requirements.)

Please contact your Senator (click here for contact information) and ask them to oppose CS/CS/SB 810 and share the impact the bill will have on your city. Please also share the information with Matt Singer at msinger@flcities.com.

Please contact Matt Singer with any questions.