Stormwater
Stormwater discharges are generated by rainwater and snowmelt runoff from land and impervious areas such as paved streets, parking lots, and building rooftops. This runoff often contains pollutants in quantities that could adversely affect water quality. To protect water resources, stormwater discharges from communities, construction companies, industries and others are regulated by the EPA through the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES).
What You Need to Know
Most stormwater discharges are considered point sources and require coverage by a permit under the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES). The NPDES program is a permitting program designed to limit the amount of pollutants that reach waters of the United States per sections 307, 402, 318, and 405 of the Clean Water Act. The NPDES stormwater permitting program is organized according to the three types of regulated stormwater discharges:
- Industrial,
- Construction, and
- Municipal separate storm sewer systems (MS4s).
Major requirements are cited under 40 CFR 122.26.
While NPDES is a federal program, most states run their own Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permitting programs. The type and volume of pollutants discharged may also vary by state. Let J. J. Keller help navigate these complex rules and regulations that address stormwater. Learn how to apply best management practices and maintain compliance.
You may need an NPDES permit if:
- If your facility discharges (or proposes to discharge) pollutants into waters of the United States.
- If your facility has pollutants that are exposed to stormwater (including snowfall).
- If you plan to construct a new facility, you may need a construction stormwater permit.
Major requirements related to stormwater differ among the industrial and construction industries.For industrial activities you’ll need to determine if your facility’s Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) code is subject to NPDES permitting. Then you’ll need to determine if you are in a state that runs its own NPDES program before applying for the proper permit (general, specific, MSGP, construction, construction MSGP, or other).
For construction activities, you will need a stormwater permit if your construction activities will disturb one or more acres of land or are part of a larger construction project that will disturb five or more acres of land. You’ll then need to determine if the facility is eligible for a Construction General Permit.
Complying with the terms in your permit can be complex regardless of industry. Let us help you determine the right permitting mechanism and implement strategies for compliance.