Septic Systems

Environmental Health issues permits for new, replacement and additions to septic systems and evaluate existing systems for compliance with all local and state laws and ordinances, as needed. 

Beach Advisories

Environmental specialist test the waters of nine Charlotte County beaches each week.  Depending on the bacteria levels, a swimming advisory may be issued and posted signs are used to advise the community.

Public Pools and Bathing Places

Charlotte County inspects over 326 public pools within the county.  These pools are at hotels, motels, condominiums, parks, schools, and social and civic organizations mobile home parks etc. Public pool legislation is found in Florida Administrative Code 64E-9  and the Regulations can be found in Chapter 64E-9, FAC.

Each site must comply with state standards for pool construction, maintenance, water chemistry, and safety equipment.  The department offers pool schools to train pool operators on maintenance and code compliance. For a more technical view of our pool program, visit Guidelines for the proper care & maintenance of public swimming pools.

Small Public Supply Wells/Residential Well Water Testing

This program monitors wells owned by businesses or wells that serve more than two rental units to ensure that quality and construction standards are met.  Environmental specialists sample public and private water systems for contamination by bacteria, lead, and nitrates.  Water testing is also available to the public.

Food Hygiene Services

The Florida Department of Health regulates the institutional food operations in schools, adult group care facilities, jails, fraternal organizations and  some lounges. These establishments are inspected four times each year for equipment and sanitation practices. Specialists investigate reports of food-borne illness outbreaks. Safe Food Handler’s Training is offered periodically by the Environmental Health Division of the Charlotte County Health Department.

The Department of Business and Professional Regulation  (850-487-1395) handles the inspection of restaurants. Agriculture and Consumer Services (1-800-435-7352) regulates grocery and convenience stores.

Foster Homes

The Charlotte County Health Department conducts inspections of foster homes licensed by the Department of Children and Families, at their request. Environmental Specialists ensure good environmental health standards are in place at the home where children are placed.

Mobile Home Parks / Recreational Vehicle Parks

Environmental Health issues annual operating permits to Mobile Home/RV Parks, campgrounds, and recreational facilities.  The site, water supply, sewage/garbage disposal, sanitary facilities, maintenance, and pest control are inspected twice a year.

Mold

Indoor air quality complaints in apartments and hotels are regulated by the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation. Single family residences, duplexes, triplexes, and apartments under four units are covered under the Florida Landlord/Tenant Law. For more information on indoor air in Florida, visit http://www.doh.state.fl.us/environment/community/indoor-air/ or the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Photo courtesy of Terry Brennan.

Red Tide

A red tide, or harmful algal bloom, is a higher-than-normal concentration of a microscopic alga (aquatic plant). In Florida and the Gulf of Mexico, the species that causes most red tides is Karenia brevis, often abbreviated as K. brevis. For people with severe or chronic respiratory conditions, such as emphysema or asthma, red tide can cause serious illness. See red tide reports and learn more...

Sanitary Nuisances

Environmental Health investigates nuisance complaints from the public which involve septic problems such as sewage on the ground or other concerns about unsanitary conditions.  To submit a complaint, call 743-1266.  To report disease, contact epidemiology  or call 941-639-1181. 

Other Services

Environmental Health provides information and referral service to other agencies.  Issues may include sewage, waste disposal, pollution, public buildings, occupational health, consumer product safety, radiologic health, indoor air quality, toxic substances, animal and insect borne diseases.