Everything You Need to Know about the Georgia SWPPP and NPDES Permit Requirements
- joeyruse
- Jan 22
- 3 min read
Georgia's diverse landscapes and increasing focus on water quality make compliance with stormwater regulations essential for construction projects. In Georgia, this involves adhering to the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) NPDES General Permit and creating a comprehensive Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP). This article outlines SWPPP requirements, NPDES permit compliance, and the steps for submitting a Notice of Intent (NOI) with the Georgia EPD.
What is a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP)?
A SWPPP is a site-specific document that outlines strategies and practices to prevent pollutants from contaminating stormwater runoff. The primary goal of the SWPPP is to minimize the impact of construction and industrial activities on local water bodies by controlling sediment, erosion, and other potential pollutants from leaving the construction site.
Who Needs a SWPPP in Georgia?
In Georgia, any construction activity disturbing one acre or more of land must develop a SWPPP as part of obtaining coverage under the NPDES General Permit for Stormwater Discharges from Construction Activities. Smaller projects that are part of a larger common plan of development that cumulatively disturb an acre or more are also subject to these requirements. Projects under one acre of land disturbance typically do not require a SWPPP or related permit coverage.
Key Components of a SWPPP
A compliant SWPPP must include the following elements:
Site Description:
Location and size of the project.
Description of construction activities.
Identification of potential pollutant sources expected to be kept onsite.
Erosion and Sediment Controls:
Detailed measures to prevent soil erosion and sediment discharge, such as silt fences, sediment basins, and temporary seeding. These must be included in narrative form and outlined on a map of the site.
Good Housekeeping Practices:
Proper waste management, material storage, and spill prevention practices and procedures to reduce the risk of materials discharging from the site.
Inspections and Maintenance:
Regular site inspections to ensure that control measures are functioning correctly. Specific to Georgia, inspections must occur at least once every seven calendar days or within 24 hours after a rainfall event of 0.5 inches or more.
Maintenance schedules for stormwater controls.
Record Keeping:
Documentation of inspections, maintenance, and any corrective actions taken.
NPDES General Permit Requirements in Georgia
The NPDES General Permit is issued by the Georgia EPD and applies to stormwater discharges associated with construction activities. To comply with this permit, operators must:
Prepare a SWPPP before submitting a Notice of Intent (NOI).
Submit a NOI to the Georgia EPD to request coverage under the NPDES General Permit.
Implement the SWPPP at the project site.
Conduct Regular Inspections and maintain proper documentation as required by the permit. Please note, all SWPPP site inspections must be performed by a Georgia Soil and Water Conservation Commission (GSWCC) Level 1B Erosion & Sediment Control Certified Inspector.
Submit a Notice of Termination (NOT) when construction is complete, and final stabilization has been achieved.
Understanding the Notice of Intent (NOI)
The NOI is a formal application submitted to the Georgia EPD to obtain coverage under the NPDES General Permit. Key steps in the NOI process include:
Completing the NOI Form:
Provide information about the project, including location, estimated start and end dates, and operator details.
Submitting the NOI:
NOIs can be submitted electronically through the Georgia EPD’s online portal “GEOS”.
Paying the Required Fee:
Fees range from $40 to $80 per disturbed acre depending on if GA EPD or a local municipality is considered to be the Local Issuing Authority for the project’s area.
Receiving Confirmation of Coverage:
Once the NOI is processed and approved, the Georgia EPD will issue confirmation of coverage under the NPDES permit. Typical processing time is between 7–14 business days.
Compliance and Enforcement
Failure to develop a SWPPP, submit a NOI, or comply with NPDES requirements can result in significant penalties, including fines and potential project delays. Regular audits and inspections by the Georgia EPD help ensure that operators adhere to the required standards.
Final Thoughts
Ensuring compliance with SWPPP and NPDES requirements is essential for protecting Georgia’s water resources and avoiding costly enforcement actions. By developing a comprehensive SWPPP, submitting the required NOI, and maintaining compliance throughout the project lifecycle, operators can ensure projects stay on time and budget.
Not sure if you have everything you need?
Contact the qualified stormwater compliance professionals at Eco Permit Pros today to check SWPPP off your to-do list!
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