Stormwater Management FAQ’s
Why is stormwater runoff a problem?
Runoff from rainstorms can collect pollutants like sediment, oil, and various chemicals and then carried into storm drains that lead directly into waterbodies.
Are Polluted Waters Really a Problem?
According to the U.S. EPA, In the 1970’s 40% of all U.S. waters were not fishable or swimmable due to impairments. Many improvements have been made since the NPDES programs were created.
What is a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit?
An NPDES permit is typically a license for a facility to discharge a specified amount of a pollutant into a receiving water under certain conditions. The Clean Water Act prohibits discharging “pollutants” through a “point source” into a water way unless an NPDES permit is in place.
Does my construction site have to get NPDES permit coverage?
If you are disturbing 1 or more acres, including smaller sites that are part of a larger plan of development then YES you need to apply for coverage. EPA’s National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) program regulates stormwater runoff from construction sites. It is important to get your NOI prior to any construction activities.
Does my industrial facility have to get NPDES permit coverage?
If your facility, stores industrial materials or has outside activities YES you do need coverage. Runoff from rainfall that comes in contact with these activities can pick up pollutants, and transport them directly to a nearby lakes, ponds, and eventually to our coastal waters. Material handling and storage, equipment maintenance and cleaning, and other activities at industrial facilities are often exposed to the weather.
What is a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) and do I need it?
If you have NPDES coverage you will need to have a SWPPP.The SWPPP should be completed prior to applying for coverage.
Your site specific SWPPP explains how you will control pollutants in stormwater runoff from your facility. It is a written document that identifies the sources of pollution and industrial activities conducted at the site, including stormwater control practices which the operator will use to prevent pollutants from making their way into stormwater runoff.
What are BMPs and why are they so important?
BMP’s (Best Management Practice) make good sense, whether you are required to obtain an NPDES permit or not, you can help human health and the environment by initiating stormwater management BMPs at your business. BMPs are structural and non-structural. Examples of structural BMP are silt fence or inlet protection. Non-structural BMPs are your SWPPP plan or education.
What is required for inspections at a construction site in Florida?
Florida DEP requires that construction sites disturbing over an acre of land must conduct and document NPDES Inspections once a week and after a 0.5” rain event. Inspections are required on holidays and weekends.
What is an (MS4) Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System?
A separate storm sewer system is a collection of structures, including retention basins, ditches, roadside inlets and underground pipes, designed to discharge untreated stormwater it into local water bodies such as streams, reviers, and lakes. It’s called a separate system because it is not connected to the wastewater system which drains from inside a home or building to a sewage treatment facility or a private septic system.
What if you receive a Letter of Non-Compliance or Notice of Violation (NOV) from your stormwater regulatory body?
Getting such a notification is a serious matter. Proper and immediate response is critically important, and it is imperative to partner with an expert in stormwater rules, regulations, and regulatory response. KCI is an expert that understands the most effective strategies to return your facility to a well-functioning system while mitigating both environmental harm and regulatory exposure for the facility manager or owner.