FL S1240

Exempts projects that remove organic detrital material from freshwater rivers or lakes from permit requirements if a governmental agency sponsors or participates in the project.

Requires removed organic detrital material and plant material to be deposited at upland sites without causing water quality violations or redirected to alternative beneficial reuse.

Allows a 150-meter radius mixing zone for turbidity during dredging and a 1,000-meter radius for discharge of return water containing flocculants from dewatering operations.

Mandates written notice to the appropriate Department of Environmental Protection district office at least 30 days before work begins and written certification of compliance within 30 days after project completion.

Prohibits the department from charging fees for removal of detrital material and authorizes the use of sovereignty submerged lands for projects meeting these conditions.