Jun 5 2007
In an effort to improve the quality and timeliness of stormwater discharge permit applications associated with construction, the Department of Environmental Protection has made several upgrades that will also expedite the review process.
"Our environmental protection requirements have resulted in a stronger economy and cleaner streams, but they have also dramatically increased the number and complexity of permits we must process," said DEP Secretary Kathleen A. McGinty. "The high number of applications we continue to receive cover projects that promise future economic benefits for Pennsylvania, so we've put in place a system that will help us clear up the current backlog and provide prompt and effective reviews."
Changes in the federal National Pollution Discharge Elimination System, or NPDES, requirements, as well as an increased need to better manage stormwater have increased demands on permit applicants and review staff. Consequently, DEP established an expedited review option for NPDES permit applications for stormwater discharges associated with construction activities. By reviewing applications through the expedited process, the department assures applicants that a determination will be made within 30 days of the public comment period's completion.
In addition, the permit application was revised to provide a more complete and user-friendly means of streamlining the permit process. The instructions and application form are now organized to support a logical process for planning projects and assuring consistency with local requirements. Improvements also provide a means to ensure that private consultants fulfill professional obligations to plan, oversee construction work, and certify final projects as meeting applicable engineering standards.
Applicants can now take advantage of the opportunity to have an approved third-party consultant review and help complete quality applications prior to submitting it to the conservation district or department. DEP established a list of 36 qualified consultants, organized geographically according to where they have agreed to provide third-party consulting services that is available on its Web site.
"As businesses expand and more people call Pennsylvania home, properly managing stormwater becomes more important in protecting downstream property and the quality of our streams and rivers," McGinty said.
The NPDES permit program controls water pollution by regulating point sources that discharge pollutants into waterways. Point sources are discrete conveyances, such as pipes or man-made ditches.
Individual homes that are connected to a municipal system, use a septic system or do not have a surface discharge do not need an NPDES permit. Industrial, municipal and other facilities, however, must obtain permits if discharges go directly to surface waters.