Stormwater runoff from residential neighborhoods, commercial centers, industrial areas,
and other lands transports pollutants through the drainage conveyances to the natural
water bodies of Polk County. Phosphorus and nitrogen are the primary nutrients associated
with the degradation of groundwater and surface water, and are the primary components
of fertilizer used on urban landscapes. Improper fertilization practices contribute
excess nitrogen and phosphorus to Polk County's water bodies through the drainage
conveyances that regulate the flow of stormwater to prevent flooding. This reduces
the drainage conveyances capacity to provide flood protection from the overgrowth
of vegetation.
Pursuant to Section 303(d) of the Federal Clean Water Act and Chapter 62-303 of the
Florida Administrative Code, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP)
has classified specific water bodies in Polk County as "impaired" as a result of the
presence of excess nutrients. In addition, the FDEP has issued a National Pollutant
Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit to Polk County requiring the adoption
of an ordinance to limit the nutrient contributions from the fertilization of urban
landscapes within the watershed of any nutrient impaired water bodies. The board of
county commissioners of Polk County, Florida, therefore finds it necessary to adopt
this article to reduce nutrient leaching and runoff through improved fertilizer management
in order to protect the quality of waters receiving stormwater discharges for the
health, safety, and general welfare of the citizens of Polk County.
(Ord. No. 13-005, Art. I(1-2), 3-19-13)
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