FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION HOSTS WORKSHOP FOR INDIAN RIVER COUNTY REALTORS®

Florida DEP Banner

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Feb. 5, 2014

CONTACT: DEP Press Office, 850.245.2112, DEPNews@dep.state.fl.us

FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION  HOSTS WORKSHOP FOR INDIAN RIVER COUNTY REALTORS®

~DEP's Southeast District provides free educational seminar~

VERO BEACH –The Florida Department of Environmental Protection Southeast District conducted a free seminar for members of the REALTORS® Association of Indian River County, Inc. today. Department staff educated 35 realtors on environmental issues related to waterfront properties. 

The Department reached out to realtors to provide this type of training because they are the first line in educating new residents on the State rules and regulations regarding waterfront properties. The Department chose this timing because many realtors and real estate agents do seasonal work in South Florida.

”The Southeast District has successfully raised compliance rates by making staff accessible to the community through outreach events," said Southeast District Director Jill Creech. "We expect our compliance rates to continue to rise as a result of these outreach efforts and we appreciate our audience's interest in environmental issues.”

Realtors often are the first person a potential property owner will call with questions, therefore having informed realtors helps disseminate accurate information. This in turn, can prevent unintentional harm to waterfront and coastal land from new owners who may not be familiar with Florida rules and regulations. Realtors also assist clients in researching what permits have been issued to a particular property and if there have been any non-compliance issues in the past.

“This is a great opportunity to educate realtors with first-hand knowledge,” said Troy Greenawalt, Education Coordinator for the REALTORS® Association of Indian River County. “And, in turn, they are better prepared to serve clients regarding properties on or near the water.”

The program in Indian River County included information on:

  • What the Department regulates
  • What requires a permit and the permitting process
  • What are mangroves and why they are uniquely vital to Florida's environment
  • Wetlands and Aquatic Preserves
  • Docks and Boatlifts