Technical
Design Depth
Definition
The design depth is the depth at which a canal, basin, or channel was originally permitted and dredged — and the maximum depth to which it can typically be re-dredged without a new permit application.
What it means in practice
Design depths are referenced to NAVD88 and recorded on the original permit drawings. Restoring a basin to its design depth is treated as maintenance dredging under FDEP rules; going below it is considered new dredging and requires a different permit pathway, often including environmental mitigation.
Why it matters to you
Knowing your design depth determines what's legally possible. It also affects cost — maintenance dredging permits are faster and less expensive than new dredging permits.
Related terms
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