Any construction facilities within the Texas area which has a plan for disrupting more than 5 acres of land during the project or is extremely close to a water body or is within an area listed as a haven for endangered species, needs to have special permits in place for preventing any hazardous pollution of the environment due to storm water runoff. The TCEQ SWPPP requirements clearly state a few steps that should be taken when implementing a sound SWPPP strategy. Here is an overview of the most important directives mentioned within this guidance.
Steps before the discharges are let off
Start by acquiring the original compliance history ranking for the company. If the ranking is under the poor category, you cannot apply for a SWPPP and have to start the approval process for an individual permit instead. If your ranking is averaging at a high, you can start the structure and design of the SWPPP plan for your project. You have to submit an original document of NOI or notice of intent to start the process of permit approval. The fees for this step can be paid directly at the Steers website. You also need to obtain the site notice pertaining to your construction site and have it posted within the site premises to comply with the guidance of the SWPPP permits. You can only start discharges for your site after these steps have been put into action.
Steps after the initial TCEQ review
The next step will be to apply for a TCEQ review of your site, which will go through each of your approval and initial steps for the SWPPP permit. After the initial review, you will get the proper documentation depending on the ability and strategy for your site for storm water discharge handling. If all the steps are in compliance, you will get the acknowledgment certificate allowing coverage under a general permit for discharges from the site. However, any non-compliance will also result in a denial letter or a note of deficiency, which will need to be addressed before your site is allowed to move forth with the discharges.
Steps to take after the premier coverage has been retained
Once the premier coverage for discharges from the site has been obtained under the SWPPP permit from TCEQ, you will need to consistently adhere to the guidelines mentioned in the permit. You will also need to submit a NOT or notice of terminating once the final stabilization of the construction site has occurred deeming it suitable in handling storm water run offs properly.