If you are familiar with common wetland plants like cypress, willows, cattails, or arrowhead, their presence will offer another helpful clue that you have found a wetland. Once you have identified the presence of a wetland you should be aware that it can be difficult to determine its full extent. When in doubt, you should contact the Department for assistance in determining whether or not your proposed work site is a wetland. We now know that wetlands are one of our more important natural resources because of the many environmental and economic benefits that they provide. Vegetation grows very quickly in wetlands, producing a great deal of timber and food for plant-eating animals.
Wetlands are especially important as nesting and nursery grounds.
If you are located in the Florida panhandle, within the limits of the Northwest Florida Water Management District, you will need a Wetland Resource Permit . If you are located anywhere else in Florida, you will need an Environmental Resource Permit . When you submit your application to DEP, a copy is automatically forwarded to the Corps. Although the water management districts share this regulatory program with DEP, they are usually not involved with residential activities by homeowners. For information on local government regulations, please contact your county building permit office.