Introduction to NPDES Construction Site General Permit
This online engineering PDH course introduces the reader to the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) construction general permit (CGP). The NPDES regulations apply to nearly every construction site development. Understanding the regulations, requirements, and coverage provided under the CGP is essential to staying in compliance with the law. Following the requirements under the CGP will also reduce the impacts of construction on the environment.
Construction inevitably causes some degree of disturbance and compaction of the soil, the loss of vegetation density, and the creation of impervious surfaces. Water quality can be dramatically impacted by inadequate construction site erosion and sediment control measures. For these reasons the Environmental Protection Agency regulates even relatively small construction sites under the Phase II NPDES regulations.
"Any construction activity that will, or is part of a "common plan" of development or sale that will, disturb one or more acres and has the potential to have a discharge of storm water to a water of the United States must either have a permit OR have qualified for a waiver. If all of the storm water from the construction activity is captured on-site and allowed to evaporate, soak into the ground on-site, or is used for irrigation, you do not need coverage under this permit. Under the Clean Water Act, it is illegal to have a point source discharge of pollutants to a water of the United States that is not authorized by a permit. If there is a potential for a discharge, you need to apply for coverage under this permit." (EPA Fact Sheet, 2005).
This 4 PDH online course is applicable to practicing engineers, contractors, developers, regulators, and all other personnel involved with construction sites.
This PE ccontinuing education ourse is intended to provide you with the following specific knowledge and skills:
- Understanding of the general history of the NPDES regulations
- Knowing when a permit is required
- Determining if a project eligible for a CGP
- Learning what coverage is provided by the permit
- Understanding the requirements under the permit
- Familiarizing with sources of additional information
In this professional engineering CEU course, you need to review the EPA Fact Sheet, 2005 "NPDES General Permit for Storm Water Discharges from Construction Activities".
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