South District
The natural environment is the lifeblood of our state's economy and the reason Florida is so beautiful. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection wants to work with you to protect, conserve and manage Florida's environment and valuable natural resources, which is why the South District always welcomes public input. DEP's South District focuses on issues facing this region and state, ranging from mangroves to hazardous waste. With 16 state parks and nine aquatic preserves that encompass beautiful coastal beaches and diverse wetlands, the South District provides many opportunities for enjoying the local environment. The district is also home to the Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, which includes one of the few remaining undisturbed mangrove estuaries in North America. The district is responsible for the following counties: Charlotte, Collier, Desoto, Highlands, Hendry, Glades, Lee and Sarasota.
Meet the Director
Elizabeth "Liz" Sweigert, District Director, South District
Elizabeth "Liz" Sweigert is the District Director of the South District of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. Liz has been with the South District for more than 20 years and has served most recently as the South District's Assistant Director, responsible for overseeing the Compliance Assurance Program, which includes compliance and enforcement activities for the air, water and waste programs. She began her career with DEP as an environmental specialist, issuing permits in the Submerged Lands & Environmental Resource Coordination (SLERC) program before advancing to several management positions in both the permitting and compliance programs. Liz has resided in Florida since the 5th grade and earned her bachelor's degree from the University of South Florida.
South District Programs
South District Compliance Assurance Program
Compliance is a priority for DEP because it is key to protecting public health and the environment. DEP takes a proactive approach to protecting Florida’s Environment through education and outreach.
South District Contacts
Staff Contact Information - Organizational Chart - Language Assistance - Office Locations
South District Outreach - Ombudsman
Contact the ombudsman with questions, concerns, public records and legislative requests, media inquiries and outreach opportunities.
South District Permitting
Environmental permits help minimize potential environmental disruption as a result of common human activities. DEP works closely with all parties in implementing its regulatory program.
South District Topics of Interest
Information about current and ongoing topics of interest to the public.
Popular Publications
Collier County Wetland Determinations 4123-4144
Collier County Wetland Determinations
Strap numbers beginning with 4123-4144
Lee County Wetland Determinations 29-32
Lee County Wetland Determinations
Strap numbers beginning with 29-32
Constructing a Single-Family Residence FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions: Constructing a Single-Family Residence
Infrastructure Corrosion Drinking Water
Infrastructure Corrosion Drinking Water presentation by Patty Baron
Events & Public Notices
None available at this time.
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Sign UpThe Florida Department of Environmental Protection is the state’s lead agency for environmental management and stewardship – protecting our air, water and land. The vision of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection is to create strong community partnerships, safeguard Florida’s natural resources and enhance its ecosystems.
Learn MoreTallahassee, Florida 32399-3000 Public.Services@FloridaDEP.gov 850-245-2118
