Who has the first responsibility to get a permit?

The first responsibility to obtain a permit falls to the operator because they are ultimately in charge of the site and its activities. The operator oversees the implementation of the stormwater management plan and ensures compliance with all regulatory requirements during construction. This includes securing permits necessary for various phases of construction, such as stormwater management, erosion, and sedimentation controls.

Since the operator is directly responsible for the day-to-day operations at the site, they have the most significant stake in ensuring that all permits are acquired before work begins. By holding this responsibility, the operator is accountable for maintaining compliance with state and local environmental regulations, which are essential for protecting water quality and minimizing the environmental impact of construction activities.

While other parties, such as engineering firms, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), and subcontractors, have roles that may involve planning and execution, it is the operator's duty to ensure that all necessary permits are in place before any construction activities can proceed. This underscores the operator's role in both leadership and regulatory accountability within the project framework.