The City participates in the National Pollutant Discharge and Elimination System (NPDES) permitting program. This is a Federal program, administered by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP). As a participant of the NPDES, the City is required to adhere to several Best Management Practices (BMPs). These BMPs are designed to educate the public about surface water quality and improve the discharge of stormwater runoff. The ultimate goal of the program is to improve the environment through the protection of our local water resources such as; Choctawhatchee Bay, Santa Rosa Sound, Cinco Bayou, Don’s Bayou, and Garniers Bayou.
View the “After the Storm” video by the United States (U.S.) Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Weather Channel, which explains where pollutants go after a rain storm.
Boaters- Please be sure to use the City’s sewage pump-out facility located at Fort Walton Landing. There is no charge for the pump-out and the facility is funded in part by the Florida DEP Clean Vessel Act Program.