Stormwater Pollution Prevention Procedures

Here it is.  Yet another regulation to learn and follow in order to attempt to continue working in the field of building and development.  This article published in a recent issue of Professional Builder Magazine explains……Stormwater pollution prevention procedures (SWPPP) is part of the Clean Water Act dating back to 1972.  Due to lack of manpower, the federal government has not been strict on enforcement of this requirement.  Until recently.   Now, failure to comply with the SWPPP can cause builders to incur administrative and civil penalties of huge monetary amounts.   Failure to comply can carry fines up to $75,000 or more per day.

Because the regulation is so complex, the National Association of Home Builders (www.nahb.org) has developed a 10 step process for complying with stormwater pollution prevention procedures.

1. Determine whether you need a permit.  Submit and post your Notice of Intent (NOI).
2. Prepare and implement a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP).
3. Install and maintain erosion and sediment control measures.
4. Practice good housekeeping and control all sources of pollutants.
5. Identify responsible parties, delegate and manage subcontractor obligations, and create a checklist of procedures to follow.
6. Conduct and document inspections and correct any problems you find.
7. Keep your SWPPP updated.
8. Minimize tracking of dirt into the streets and provide inlet protection.
9. Know what to do when an inspector shows up.
10. Stabilize disturbed areas and submit your Notice of Termination (NOT).

Outsourcing is an avenue that many residential builders and developers have chosen to ensure that they adhere to and are compliant with these regulations.  But this too can be costly.  As a result, many builders and developers are getting trained and learning how to bring compliance planning in-house.

In recent years, software programs have been designed to help improve compliance with stormwater run-off requirements.   The internet offers many resources for builders seeking knowledge and information about stormwater compliance guidelines.  Here is a couple:   Online Stormwater Training and Certification: Stormwater USA www.stormwaterusa.com and SWPPP Management Software: www.SWPPPinfo.com.