This permit is used to regulate facilities that use or store small quantity hazardous materials or waste. The permit provides operating conditions and requirements as well as guidance for the operators. Section 24-35.1 of the Code of Miami-Dade County lists some of the types of facilities, which require the IW5 operating permit.

This permit is necessary to protect both the public and the environment from the consequences of improper storage, generation, disposal, or handling of hazardous materials and hazardous waste.

If located within any city or municipality, a municipal Occupational License and/or a Certificate of Use from the city is generally required prior to accepting an application for operating permit. In unincorporated areas of the county, a valid Certificate of Use, or approved CU application must be submitted. You can apply for a Certificate of Use and Occupancy with Miami-Dade County's Building Department located at 11805 SW 26 Street. If your facility is located within a municipality, apply at their Occupational License Office.

Additionally, prior to opening your facility we recommend that you determine if your facility is located within a Wellfield Protection Area as identified in Chapter 24-12.11 of the Miami Dade County Code. There are restrictions as to what type of facilities are allowed in these areas. You will also need to determine if the property is served by sanitary sewers and is on public water, by contacting the appropriate Water and Sewer Department.

In order to apply for the operating permit (once all the above certificates and licenses are acquired) bring a copy of your water and sewer bill, Certificate of Use and/or Occupational License to the DERM Office of Plan Review Services or directly to the Industrial Facilities Section located at the DERM Building in Downtown.

It is suggested that other municipal, county, State and Federal Agencies also be consulted to determine which additional permits must be obtained from those agencies.

A completed application that is submitted in person is generally reviewed and an answer provided in a matter of minutes. The actual Operating Permit that must be posted at the facility, is usually mailed within thirty (30) days of receiving the complete application and obtained approval.

The permit fees are based on the type of facility and factors such as holding tank capacity, volume of industrial discharges, and whether the facility discharges to the ground or sanitary sewers.  For specifics, please see the Department’s approved fee schedule. Please see DERM Fee Schedule.

The IW-5 permit calendar year runs from May 1st. through June 30th. of the following year. Permit renewal forms are sent to the facility operators a minimum of sixty (60) days prior to the expiration of the permit.

For more information, please contact 305-372-6600.

• View the Industrial Facilities (IW5) Permit