Construction stormwater best management practice – Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan
Contents
NPDES/SDS Construction Stormwater permit requirements
This fact sheet provides guidance on writing an adequate Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) that will assist in keeping a construction site in compliance with the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES)/State Disposal System (SDS) Construction Stormwater (CSW) permit. The development of a proper SWPPP is a requirement of the permit and the responsibility of the owner.
What is a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan?
A SWPPP is a plan that describes the strategies and steps that will be taken to prevent nonpoint source pollution discharging from a construction site. The SWPPP is a valuable tool and will become the backbone of the entire construction process related to erosion and sediment control and stormwater management, both during construction and post construction. The SWPPP includes a description of all construction activity, temporary and permanent erosion and sediment control BMPs, permanent stormwater management, and other pollution prevention techniques to be implemented throughout the life of the construction project. The SWPPP includes a combination of narrative plans and standard detail sheets that address the foreseeable conditions at any stage of construction.
Why do I need a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan?
All construction projects disturbing one acre or more or that are part of a larger common plan of development that ultimately disturbs one acre or more are required to apply for an NPDES/SDS Construction Stormwater permit through the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA). The permit states that prior to submitting a permit application, the owner must develop a SWPPP for the construction site. The SWPPP is the plan developed by and for the permittees addressing how they are to meet the requirements and conditions of the CSW general permit specifically for their site. Site conditions, soil types and expected precipitation will be different for each site and the permittee must select the best and cost effective best management practices (BMPs) and installation locations for their particular site. The SWPPP is to be kept at the site for the duration of the project and retained in files for three years after the project is completed. If the construction project disturbs 50 acres or more and discharges to a special or impaired water, the SWPPP must be submitted along with the permit application to the MPCA 30 days prior to the start of any construction activity.
How is a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan helpful to me?
A successful SWPPP identifies the issues of concern before construction begins and is also adaptable for the many unexpected changes that come about with every construction project. Planning ahead is the most effective way to minimize erosion and sedimentation during construction and reduce project costs. A well organized and planned out SWPPP will assist in the prevention of unnecessary permit violations and save the owner and contractor time, money, and effort over the course of the project.