A Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) must be developed prior to the start of construction and prior to applying for any National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit in order to receive a NPDES Permit. A well-developed SWPPP is the first line of defense for sediment and erosion control.

The first purpose is to “identify potential sources of stormwater pollution on a construction, industrial and/or municipal site.” 1 In order to prevent illicit discharges, you must know where the water is coming from and going to.

Second step is to “describe stormwater control measures and Best Management Practices (BMPs) that will be used to reduce or eliminate pollutants in stormwater discharges from the project site” 1. In other words, how, what and where are you going to stop sediment/pollutants from leaving your site.

Lastly, just like building a home, even the best laded plans can go out the window, which is why the SWPPP is a “living and breathing document.” Meaning that your plan should be updated to adapt to an ever-changing construction site.

A SWPPP is needed along with an NPDES permit for any disturbance of 1 acre or greater and needs to be specific to the site it is created for. As municipalities change so do the requirements for the SWPPP. SWPPP requirements must meet state, city, county and any other specification in order to reach full compliance. If a SWPPP does not meet these requirements the responsible party is susceptible to potential violations. Earthworks prides itself in the ability to create a SWPPP in accordance to all municipal requirements. As a consultant Earthworks takes it upon themselves to work with the builder and ensure that the SWPPP is updated as necessary. This service is included in Earthworks inspection service and is completed during each site inspection.

1 SWPPPs and SWMPs. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://stormwaterone.com/storm-water-pollution-prevention-plans-and-stormwater-management-plans.