This program offers classes that follow the curriculum provided in the Florida Stormwater, Erosion and Sedimentation Control Inspectors Manual (Tier I, and Tier II). The classes will help develop a better knowledge of how to properly manage the impacts from solids (TSS), turbidity (NTUs), and nutrients (i.e., nitrogen and phosphorus) and other surface water contaminates. Florida’s stormwater program is technology based, using performance standards and BMP design criteria. The use of innovative techniques and specifically designed erosion control systems are encouraged in order to prevent or limit erosion and sedimentation problems during and after land disturbance and construction activities.

The Tier I class provides an introduction to stormwater and erosion and sedimentation control, and teaches BMP installers and operators how to properly select, install, and maintain BMPs. This class is a pre-requisite to the Tier II class.

The Tier II class provides additional details on information introduced in the Tier I class, and trains BMP inspectors on the applicable regulations, inspection forms, and enforcement procedures necessary for proper inspection of BMPs. Upon the completion of the Tier II class, a proctored examination is administered, and a minimum passing grade of 70 percent must be made to obtain the DEP qualification certificate.

This program is a two-day class that follows the curriculum provided in the Florida Stormwater, Erosion and Sedimentation Control Inspector’s Manual Tier I, and Tier II. Upon the completion of the class, a proctored examination is administered and approximately 1 hour is given to complete the exam. In order to obtain the DEP qualification certificate, a minimum passing grade of 70 percent must be made on the exam.

The objectives of this training and qualification program are:

• To ensure that the desired benefits of stormwater management systems are being achieved.
• To ensure that both the public and private sectors have enough inspectors trained in the proper installation and maintenance of BMPs during and after construction.
• To ensure a consistent level of technical expertise and professional conduct for all individuals responsible for inspecting erosion and sediment controls, and stormwater management systems.

The program curriculum was originally developed and the training program began in late 1997. In 2018, the curriculum and training manual were divided into two tiers to cover material for installers and inspectors in sequence. To date, there are approximately 40,000 inspectors qualified under the educational program throughout the state of Florida. DEP-approved instructors voluntarily teach the installer and inspector training classes throughout the year. This allows the instructors flexibility to arrange classes around their schedules.