Do I need a stormwater permit? How do I apply?
As of March 10, 2003 in order to discharge stormwater from a construction site, all construction projects that disturb 1 acre or more of land must have either:
an individual stormwater permit, or
coverage under one of Texas's general permits.
Disturbance includes, but is not limited to soil disturbance, clearing, grading, and excavation. Operators of sites disturbing less than one acre are also required to obtain a permit if their activity is part of a "larger common plan of development or sale" with a planned disturbance of one acre or greater.
To apply for an individual permit or for coverage under a statewide general permit you must file an application with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality prior to commencement of your construction activities.
In addition to these statewide rules, you may be required to meet additional local stormwater and erosion control regulations. Check with your city or county government to determine if additional local rules apply to your construction project.
Where can I find permit application forms and instructions?
EPA is the permitting authority on most land in Indian Country. In areas where EPA is the permitting authority, operators must meet the requirements of the EPA Construction General Permit (CGP).