Commercial & Industrial

Which Industrial Activities Require Storm Water Permits?

The federal Clean Water Act identifies specific types of industrial activities that must secure storm water discharge permits. Many are identified by Standard Industrial Classification codes. In general, facilities involved in manufacturing, transportation, waste management, mining, and other heavy industries must secure a State General Permit for Industrial Activity.

How Do I Get a Permit for My Facility?

You must submit a Notice of Intent to be covered by the State General Permit and an annual fee to the State Water Resources Control Board. The State General permit, which contains the Notice of Intent and all the information you need, can be downloaded here.

What Are the Basic Requirements of the Permit?

To comply with the permit, you must implement a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan prepared for the facility. A fill-in-the-blank and check box Model Industrial Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan and BMPs is available from the California Stormwater Quality Association (CASQA) to assist you in meeting permit requirements.

You are also required to inspect and record your observations of your site and sample and analyze discharges from the site during rainstorms. You must implement and revise your Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan as necessary to ensure pollutants in storm water discharges are minimized. You must eliminate Non-Storm Water Discharges. The State General Permit and Model SWPPP provide the information you need. Contact Us for any additional assistance you may need.