Construction and Post Construction BMP’s

CONSTRUCTION BMPs

Dischargers whose projects disturb one (1) or more acres of soil or whose projects disturb less than one (1) acre but are part of a larger common plan of development that in total disturbs one or more acres, are required to obtain coverage under the General Permit for Discharges of Storm Water Associated with Construction Activity.  View the Construction General Permit Order 2009-0009-DWQ for further information. Construction activity subject to this permit includes clearing, grading, and disturbances to the ground such as stockpiling, or excavation, but does not include regular maintenance activities performed to restore the original line, grade, or capacity of the facility.

The Construction General Permit requires the development of a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) by a certified Qualified SWPPP Developer (QSD). Many California Board of Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors and Geologists (CBPELSG) are self-certified. In addition, the California Stormwater Quality Association (CASQA) has a lookup tool to find licensed QSDs: CASQA QSP/QSD Lookup Tool.

POST-CONSTRUCTION BMPs

Post-Construction Best Management Practices (PCBMPs) are the result of the preparation of the Water Quality Management Plan. These PCBMPs are built during the construction phase of the development and are typically permanent stormwater structural treatment devices, which include but are not limited to, infiltration basins, bioretention, swales, and Hydrodynamic Separators.

To ensure the PCBMPs are constructed properly and ensure functionality, the developer is required to obtain a Post-Construction BMP permit.  The permit is provided below.