Chalk Mountain prepares Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans (SWPPP) for your construction site.  This is an essential step in ensuring compliance with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) regulations. The SWPPP outlines measures that will be taken to prevent pollutants from stormwater runoff at a construction site and addresses requirements for erosion and sediment control.

Here’s a basic guide as to how we prepare your SWPPP:

1. Determine the Need for a SWPPP

• A SWPPP is required for construction sites that disturb one acre or more of land. This includes projects that are part of a larger common plan of development or sale.

• Even if the project is under an acre, a SWPPP may still be required if it's part of a larger development.

2. Designate a Qualified Person

• The plan must include contact information for the Certified Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) Developer and Inspector. The developer must be trained or certified in stormwater management.

3. Site Description

• Location and Site Information: Include site address, description of the site (e.g., construction activities), and a description of the project phase (e.g., site preparation, grading, etc.).

• Topography: Describe the site's elevation, drainage patterns, and areas susceptible to erosion.

4. Identify Potential Pollutants

• Identify the pollutants that could be introduced into stormwater runoff. Common pollutants on construction sites include:

  • Sediment (erosion)

  • Concrete washout

  • Oils and fuels

  • Construction materials (e.g., paints, solvents)

5. Erosion and Sediment Control Measures

• Detail the erosion and sediment control practices that will be used to reduce runoff and capture pollutants. Examples:

  • Silt fences

  • Sediment basins

  • Erosion control mats

  • Mulching

  • Stabilization of disturbed areas

• The SWPPP should also specify how these controls will be inspected and maintained throughout the construction process.

6. Stormwater Management

• Best Management Practices (BMPs): Identify the BMPs that will be implemented to control stormwater runoff and manage pollutants during construction.

• Common BMPs include temporary diversion berms, sediment traps, and vegetative stabilization.

7. Inspection and Maintenance Procedures

• Inspection Schedule: Detail how often inspections will be conducted (typically once every 7 days and within 24 hours after a rainfall event of 0.5 inches or greater).

• Corrective Actions: Specify the steps that will be taken if deficiencies are noted during inspections (e.g., repairing silt fences or adding more erosion control material).

8. Non-Stormwater Discharges

• Identify any non-stormwater discharges (e.g., washout water, dewatering operations) and describe how these discharges will be managed to prevent contamination.

9. Site Stabilization

• Detail the timeline and measures for stabilizing the site after construction is complete, including final landscaping or installation of permanent erosion controls.

10. Recordkeeping

• Maintain records of inspections, maintenance, and corrective actions taken.

• Keep a copy of the SWPPP on-site and available for TCEQ inspection, along with any required permits and reports.

11. TCEQ NOI (Notice of Intent)

• If your site disturbs more than one acre, you will need to file an NOI with TCEQ. This form provides official notice that you are starting construction and intend to comply with stormwater regulations.

• After submitting the NOI, you will receive authorization under the TCEQ General Permit for Stormwater Discharges from Construction Activities (TXR150000).

12. Submit and Implement

• Submit the SWPPP and NOI to TCEQ, and implement the plan in the field.

• Keep all documents on-site and make sure staff are trained in the SWPPP requirements.

Additional Resources:

• TCEQ Stormwater Website: TCEQ Stormwater Resources

• TCEQ SWPPP Template: There are templates available on the TCEQ website to guide SWPPP preparation.

• TCEQ's General Permit TXR150000: This is the permit for stormwater discharges from construction activities.

By ensuring your SWPPP is thorough, up-to-date, and properly implemented, you’ll be able to comply with state regulations and help protect water quality on and around your construction site.