Since 2004, PEER has examined Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) files to assess pollution enforcement. In a state heavily reliant on its natural beauty for tourism revenue, it has fallen far short of acceptable pollution levels primarily in its waterways and wastewater management.
Despite pledges to strengthen pollution enforcement, Florida state records show declines in virtually all meaningful measures. Notably, violations and significant noncompliance with pollution limits are growing while major enforcement actions are declining.
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2025 | Majority of Florida Waterways Fail Water Quality Standards as State Enforcement Remains Near Historic Lows
Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is tasked with enforcing a wide array of laws that are intended to protect the state’s environment and the health of its residents. These include laws protecting air resources from industrial pollution; the quality of Florida’s water, rivers, lakes, estuaries, and wetlands; the state’s beach and dune systems; and the environment from the improper handling and disposal of solid and hazardous wastes.
The conclusions found in this report are simple and a cause for concern. In terms of enforcement of pollution laws in Florida, this report finds that while there was a slight increase in the number of Florida’s environmental enforcement actions in 2025 over 2024, state records show they are still well below historical averages