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Senate committee advances bill to let builders start construction while DEP processes septic permits; 120‑day glide path draws pushback

Florida Senate Committee on Environment and Natural Resources · January 20, 2026

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Summary

CS for SB 698 would allow builders to obtain building permits after applying for on‑site sewage permits so construction can begin while DEP completes septic permitting; senators and industry witnesses supported reducing delays but many raised concerns about a 120‑day post‑rule glide path that could let applicants avoid new standards.

Sen. Martin told the committee SB 698 addresses lengthy waits for on‑site sewage (septic) permits that can delay builders more than 100 days. Under the bill, builders who submit a building permit and show they have applied for a septic permit may begin construction to avoid sequential permit delays; DEP would still need to issue an occupancy permit before a home is occupied.

Several senators pressed on a provision that would exempt applications submitted within 120 days after DEP adopts new rules, saying that could allow many applicants to avoid stricter standards. Senator Smith said the provision "feels like a glide path on top of a glide path" and asked whether it simply extends an already existing transition. Vice Chair Mayfield and others said the 120‑day timeframe needs review and pledged to work with DEP and stakeholders to reduce permitting backlogs.

Industry witnesses supported the bill’s intent to reduce delays but urged reevaluating the 120‑day window. Rusty Payton of the Florida Home Builders Association said contract pricing is set to law at signing and later rule changes can add $10,000–$15,000 for advanced nitrogen systems, creating affordability problems. Roxanne Groover (industry) told senators the permitting backlog is partly caused by the program transition from the Department of Health to DEP, staffing and funding gaps, and that a glide path is reasonable while the system stabilizes.

A technical amendment aligning statutory terminology (using "sewage" instead of "wastewater") was adopted. The committee reported the CS for SB 698 favorably with one senator recorded as voting no.