Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plans

 A Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP), also referred to as an SWP3 or SW3P, is a comprehensive, site-specific document that outlines the characteristics of a construction site, defines the project scope, and details the best management practices (BMPs) implemented to control pollutants and prevent them from leaving the site through stormwater runoff. 

When stormwater runs off a surface, it can collect debris, sediment, chemicals, and other pollutants as it flows across land and impervious areas. To address these environmental impacts, Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans (SWPPPs) are required under the 1972 amendments to the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, commonly known as the Clean Water Act, through the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) program. 

A well-prepared Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) helps construction operators:

• Identify potential pollution sources that could reasonably impact the quality of stormwater discharges from the construction site.
• Outline best management practices (BMPs) to minimize pollutants in stormwater runoff — to divert clean water and contain sediment-laden or contaminated water.
• Ensure compliance with the terms and conditions of the applicable stormwater discharge permit.
• Establish inspection and reporting procedures to maintain ongoing compliance and verify the effectiveness of implemented controls.

The SWPPP must be maintained on-site and updated regularly to ensure it accurately reflects current site conditions and implements best management practices (BMPs). The plan should include up-to-date training records, inspection reports, and BMP maintenance documentation. Most importantly, each facility is required to adhere to the procedures and controls outlined in its SWPPP to remain in compliance with regulatory requirements. 

In general, the NPDES (National Pollution Discharge Elimination System) stormwater program requires permit coverage for discharges from construction activities that disturb one or more acres and discharges from smaller sites that are part of a larger common plan of development or sale. Depending on the location of the construction site, either the state or the EPA will administer the permit. See the webpage for Authorization Status for EPA’s Construction and Industrial Stormwater Programs to find out whether EPA or your state is the permitting authority for construction activities. You can also use the “Do I Need a Permit?” flow chart to help determine if and from whom you need to get NPDES permit coverage for your construction activities. 

 Documentation Services

• SWPPP Narrative
• Applicable Regulations Research
• Regulatory Documentation, Permitting, and Planning
• Close-out Documentation and Filings
• STEERS

Blue Palm Environmental has the experience required to help you with our Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP). 

Call us at 281-764-1340, and find out how we can help you with your Storm Water Pollution Plan (SWPPP)