FL S1748

Creates section 373.4131, F.S., requiring the Department of Environmental Protection in coordination with water management districts to develop a uniform statewide stormwater quality treatment rule by July 1, 2011.

Rule must establish minimum stormwater treatment levels including 85 percent average annual nutrient (nitrogen and phosphorus) reduction for discharges to non-Outstanding Florida Waters, or treatment achieving nutrient loads equal to natural vegetative community estimates, whichever is less stringent.

For discharges to impaired waters or Outstanding Florida Waters, postdevelopment nutrient loads must not exceed estimated nutrient loads from natural vegetative community types associated with the site's natural soils.

Allows alternative treatment requirements for redevelopment of sites 2 acres or less and retrofitting of existing systems if resulting in net reduction of nutrients and pollutants, based on feasibility assessment of best management practices.

Exempts agency action taken pursuant to the new rule from chapter 70 dispute-resolution procedures; allows departments to adopt more stringent requirements for special basins and permits issued before the rule's effective date to continue under prior rules unless applicant elects otherwise.