Public Records - Florida has a very broad public records law. Most written communications to or from state officials regarding state business are public records that are available to the public upon request. Records and information may be readily available at no cost via one of DEP’s online resources.

  • The DEP Business Portal allows Florida residents and businesses to obtain a variety of information as well as self-service authorizations online. You can apply for commonly issued authorizations, permits or certifications, pay fees and renewals, submit annual reports, subscribe to agency newsletters or search for records.
  • The department's web-based electronic document management system known as Oculus provides public access to public records. Anyone with an internet connection can log in to Oculus and locate information and documents associated with permitted facilities and activities. Documents in Oculus are filed under a specific DEP program and facility. You will need the facility/site name or the facility identification number as it is entered into OCULUS to access the facility's documents. Please note that there also may be records in paper format at the district office. Contact the district Public Records Coordinator for a paper records search.
  • You can also search facility or site names, or street addresses and may find the records posted online, by using our Information Portal.

To request public records, please email PublicRecordsRequests_Regulatory@FloridaDEP.gov or call DEP's Public Services at 850-245-2118.

Media Relations - DEP's press office accurately and effectively communicates the department's role in protecting, preserving and enhancing the state's environment and natural resources. The press office and designated outreach coordinators in each of the district offices are the primary points of contact for dealing with the news media.

The department's online newsroom is a source of general information about the department and its programs, as well as current hot topics of interest and recent press releases.

DEP Press Office: 850-245-2112 

Northwest District Media Contact:

Jesse Whitfield, Public Information Specialist - 850-595-0675.

Outreach - The department takes a proactive approach to protecting Florida’s environment through education and outreach. These proactive activities increase environmental awareness and enhance the department’s commitment to protecting Florida’s environment. The purpose of outreach is to prevent environmental harm rather than address violations after they have occurred. DEP routinely conducts free training workshops for the regulated community. This training helps ensure environmental compliance while also saving businesses money.    

In addition, DEP is working to proactively communicate a clear and consistent message both internally and externally. One of the ways we are working to achieve this is by sharing information frequently through newsletters and fact sheets designed for both the regulated community as well as the general public. You also can access presentations from workshops.

Northwest District Outreach Contact:

Jesse Whitfield, Public Information Specialist - 850-595-0675.

DEP's Office of the Ombudsman and Public Services facilitates open communication with the public by acting as a liaison to the agency’s programs. The office is the department’s public gateway for locating information, answering questions, processing records requests, reporting problems and corresponding with leadership.