What is a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP)?

Do you have a plan in place that identifies potential sources of storm water pollution on your construction project and best management practices and procedures to be implemented throughout all phases of construction to minimize the amount of pollutants in storm water?

A SWPPP is a site-specific, written document that among other things: (1) identifies potential sources of storm water pollution at construction sites; (2) describes storm water control measures to reduce or eliminate pollutants in storm water discharges from the construction site; and (3) identifies procedures that will be implemented at the construction site for compliance with applicable regulations, permits, and contract documents.

In the planning stages for a construction project, there are a number of things that must be considered to minimize storm water pollution from construction activity. Developing a SWPPP is an integral part of the planning process prior to construction activities commencing. An effective SWPPP should describe the activities that will occur throughout the life of the construction project and practices that will be implemented to minimize storm water pollution associated with the planned activities.

Construction sites are dynamic, so the SWPPP should be developed with the intent that the team will need to make frequent revisions and updates to adapt to changing site conditions.

Here are some things to consider and address when developing a SWPPP:

  • What types of earth disturbing activities will occur on your project?
  • What are sources of pollution and the potential pollutants?
  • What permits do I need?
  • What is the schedule of activities that will occur throughout the duration of the project?
  • Who will be on the storm water team?
  • What types of best management practices (BMPs) will I need to implement?
  • Where does storm water enter and leave the site?
  • Where is the nearest storm water system?
  • When do I have to do inspections?
  • When do I have to perform maintenance?
  • What types of reports are required?
  • Has a site map been developed and all required information included on it?

Remember, prior to the start of construction with ground disturbing activities, a SWPPP may need to be developed. Proper implementation of an effective SWPPP prior to and throughout the duration of construction can minimize storm water pollution from construction activities.

Visit DOT-HWYS website for additional information and resources to develop a SWPPP: Contractors and Consultants Resources