Retention Ponds in Florida: What You Need to Know
Retention Ponds in Florida: What You Need to Know
When you live or build along Florida's Emerald Coast, water is a way of life. From summer downpours to hurricane season, managing water is a top priority for homeowners, developers, and municipalities. That’s where retention ponds come into play.
You’ve probably seen them: those perfectly shaped basins, sometimes with fountains, sometimes doubling as accidental duck resorts. But there’s a lot more to retention ponds than meets the eye. In Florida, they’re a critical part of stormwater management — and if you’re building or developing property, you’ll definitely want to understand how they work.
What Is a Retention Pond?
A retention pond (also called a wet pond or stormwater pond) is an engineered basin designed to collect and store stormwater runoff permanently. Unlike detention ponds (which temporarily hold water and drain slowly), retention ponds always contain a certain amount of water.
Their job? Control flooding, prevent erosion, and improve water quality by allowing sediments and pollutants to settle before water is slowly absorbed or discharged.
Why Retention Ponds Are Crucial in Florida
Florida’s flat terrain, sandy soil, and frequent heavy rains create the perfect storm for flooding and runoff issues. Add in strict environmental regulations, and it’s easy to see why stormwater management is a major concern.
Here’s why retention ponds are often required:
High Rainfall
The Emerald Coast averages 60-70 inches of rain per year. That’s a lot of water that needs somewhere to go.Flat Topography
With minimal elevation changes, water doesn’t naturally run off quickly, making standing water a problem.Soil Composition
Florida’s sandy soil drains well, but clay layers can prevent deep infiltration in some areas, increasing surface runoff.Protecting Waterways
Retention ponds help filter pollutants, keeping local waterways like the Choctawhatchee Bay, Santa Rosa Sound, and Gulf of Mexico cleaner.Compliance with Regulations
Florida law requires effective stormwater management for most commercial and residential developments.
How Retention Ponds Work
Let’s break it down in simple steps:
Stormwater Enters
Rainwater and runoff from roofs, parking lots, streets, and landscaping flow into the retention pond.Sedimentation
Heavy particles like sand, debris, and trash settle at the bottom, improving water clarity.Biological Treatment
Plants and microorganisms in and around the pond help absorb nutrients and pollutants.Slow Release or Infiltration
Excess water slowly soaks into the ground or is released through controlled outlets to nearby drainage systems or wetlands.
Types of Properties That May Require Retention Ponds
Subdivisions and residential communities
Commercial shopping centers
Industrial complexes
Municipal facilities and parks
Schools and universities
Golf courses and resorts
Florida Laws & Regulations to Know
Stormwater management in Florida is regulated at multiple levels:
Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP)
Oversees statewide water quality regulations and permits. Learn more at Florida DEP Stormwater Program.Water Management Districts (WMDs)
Florida has 5 regional WMDs that regulate stormwater permitting based on geographic area.Local Governments
Cities and counties often have additional stormwater ordinances, especially in coastal zones.
Before any land clearing or construction, developers must submit stormwater plans that include retention pond designs as part of the site development approval process.
Design Considerations for Retention Ponds
Designing a functional retention pond isn’t just about digging a hole and hoping for the best.
Key factors include:
Size & Capacity
Must accommodate rainfall volume and runoff projections.Safety
Sloped banks to reduce drowning risk and allow safe maintenance access.Aesthetics
Many communities add fountains, landscaping, and walking paths.Erosion Control
Proper grading and vegetation prevent pond bank erosion.Wildlife Management
Florida ponds often attract birds, fish, turtles — and yes, sometimes alligators.
Maintenance Is Key
A retention pond isn’t a “set it and forget it” feature. Regular maintenance helps ensure proper function and compliance.
Common tasks include:
Debris removal (branches, litter, etc.)
Sediment removal as it builds up over time
Vegetation management to prevent overgrowth or invasive species
Outlet inspections to ensure proper drainage
Many local governments require proof of ongoing maintenance, especially for HOA-managed ponds.
The NOBL Sitework Advantage
At NOBL Sitework, we understand Florida’s unique site development challenges, including stormwater management and retention pond installation. Our team works directly with developers, engineers, and local officials to design and construct retention ponds that meet regulatory requirements while adding long-term value to your property.
👉 View our full site development services
👉 Learn about our stormwater management expertise
Common Myths About Retention Ponds
Myth 1: Retention ponds are only for large developments.
Even small commercial properties or single subdivisions may require them based on impervious surface area and zoning rules.
Myth 2: Retention ponds are ugly and lower property values.
Well-designed ponds can actually enhance curb appeal and provide scenic views.
Myth 3: They’re optional if you add landscaping.
Unfortunately, decorative landscaping won’t replace the need for proper stormwater storage and treatment.
Conclusion? (Well, not really... but a quick wrap-up.)
In Florida, retention ponds aren’t just helpful — they’re often mandatory. Whether you’re developing a small commercial property or a large subdivision on the Emerald Coast, understanding how retention ponds work will help you stay compliant, protect local waterways, and preserve property values.
And if you need an experienced partner to handle the heavy lifting (literally), give NOBL Sitework a call — we know how to move dirt and manage water like nobody else.
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