The Drinking Water Program is designed to protect the public from risks associated with contaminated drinking water supplies. Over 90 percent of Florida’s drinking water comes from groundwater supplies. Therefore, several programs have been enacted in Florida to closely monitor our drinking water.
Florida Water Quality
Protecting Florida Together map delivers statewide water quality information for blue-green algae and red tide (harmful algal blooms). You can sign-up to receive notifications when water quality changes in your area.
Drinking Water Toxics Program
- Private water wells are monitored through a cooperative agreement with the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). This program is designed to protect the public from agricultural chemicals (ethylene dibromide), industrial solvents, radionuclides and heavy metals.
- DEP identifies the potential hazard to groundwater supplies in a geographical area. The private wells within a specific distance (usually ¼ mile) to the hazardous site are identified as “at risk” for environmental contamination.
- Once at risk wells are identified, the well sampling is conducted by our department.
- Sample results are reported to the private well owners along with health advisories.
The governing authority for this program is Florida Statute 381.006 and Florida Administrative Code 64E-8.
At the request of the well owner, bacteria and/or chemical analysis sampling may be conducted for a minimal fee. Please see our Fee Schedule for specific fees.
SUPER Act (State Underground Petroleum Environmental Response Act)
- Private and public water wells are monitored through a cooperative agreement with the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). This program is designed to protect the public from petroleum contamination resulting from leaking underground petroleum tanks, petroleum spills or discharges.
- The same well sampling process stated above is followed for this program.
The governing authority for this program is Florida Statute 376.3071
DSSP (Dry-cleaning Solvent Surveillance Program)
- Private and public water wells are monitored through a cooperative agreement with the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). This program is designed to protect the public from harmful solvents used in dry cleaning processes.
- The same well sampling process stated above is followed for this program.
The governing authority for this program is Florida Statute 376.3078
Resources
- National Primary Drinking Water Regulations
- Water Supply Restoration Program for Contaminated Portable Well Water
Location & Contact Information
Downtown Service Center
1300 West Gregory Street
The Drinking Water office is open
Monday – Friday from 8 AM to 4:30 PM.
Call 850-595-6700 for more information.