EPA directs the need for an SWPPP permit for most construction sites handling more than 1 acre of area for industrial facilities constructions. It is however, a confusing process for companies dealing with the EPA SWPPP guidance for any particular city or district for the first time. Here is a systematic overview of the process to help you get started at the right point and charge in a set direction to cover your SWPPP permits.

Download EPA’s permit copy

The first step should be to download a copy of the original permit for your area to read the guidelines and eligibility criteria for acquiring an SWPPP permit for your construction site. Each state has different guidelines. Guidelines also vary according to the coverage area of your construction sites, proximity to a water body and the type of facilities that are under construction.

NOI submission

NOI or a notice of intent needs to be submitted by the operator of the construction site. However, in case of different construction projects this term can mean different entities. Operator can refer to the company, the contractor, the owner, or even a sub-contractor for the project. This depends on the type of the construction project and your overall strategy of SWPPP, which is a huge part of the NOI documentation.

Developing the SWPPP plan

SWPPP stands for storm water pollution prevention plan which is a strategy for implementation to help solve the issue of pollution caused due to the storm water runoff from the construction site and in to some major water body in the area. Every construction site has a unique SWPPP strategy. You have to read the basic principles for creating the SWPPP beforehand to make sure your strategy is within the EPA SWPPP guidance. You can also hire a professional with a CPESC certification to help with the design of your unique SWPPP strategy.

Determination of the endangered species situation for your construction site

As final part of the strategy design, you have to ensure the extent of the storm water discharge threat to the endangered species and protected water bodies around the construction site. These water bodies or the concentration of the endangered species have to be considered beyond the general boundaries of the construction site to a logical estimation of areas that can get affected by a natural storm water runoff flowing out of the site.