Stormwater runoff is generated when precipitation from rain and snowmelt events flows over land or impervious surfaces and does not percolate into the ground. As the runoff flows over the land or impervious surfaces (paved streets, parking lots, and building rooftops), it accumulates debris, chemicals, sediment or other pollutants that could adversely affect water quality if the runoff is discharged untreated. The primary method to control stormwater discharges is the use of best management practices (BMPs). EPA has issued new rules on Stormwater Management Practice for the Construction Industry. This page contains information on developing your Stromwater Pollution Prevention Plan. 

EPA Guide To Developing Your Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP)

A SWPPP is more than just a sediment and erosion control plan.It describes all the construction site operator’s activities to prevent stormwater contamination, control sedimentation and erosion, and comply with the requirements of the Clean Water Act. This guide was developed as a helpful reference guide for construction site operators across the country.

More EPA Stormwater Program Resources

This section contains technical and regulatory information about the stormwater program. It is organized according to the types of regulated stormwater discharges – municipal separate storm sewer systems (MS4s), construction activities, and industrial activities. It also provides links to general stormwater topics and tools available including Proposed Stormwater Rulemaking.

National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES)

As authorized by the Clean Water Act, the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES)
permit program controls water pollution by regulating point sources that discharge pollutants into
waters of the United States.The site contains technical and regulatory information about the NPDES permit program. The NPDES Permits Program consists of a number of programs and initiatives.