California
State Water Resources Control Board
State-DelegatedVerified 2025-01
Construction Permit
- Permit Name
- Construction General Permit (Order 2009-0009-DWQ, as amended)
- Threshold
- ≥ 1 acre of land disturbance (or < 1 acre if part of a larger common plan)
- NOI Lead Time
- NOI must be filed and permit coverage obtained before grading/construction begins
- Application Method
- Online via Stormwater Multiple Application and Report Tracking System (SMARTS)
- Fee
- Annual fee based on acreage: < 5 acres = $900; 5–49 acres = $1,200; ≥ 50 acres = $2,200
SWPPP Requirements
- SWPPP Required
- Yes
- PE Cert Required
- No
- Template Available
- Yes
California uses a Risk Level system (Risk Level 1, 2, or 3) that determines SWPPP complexity and monitoring requirements. Higher risk levels require more rigorous controls.
Inspection Requirements
- Frequency
- Risk Level 1: Visual inspections every 24 hours during active rain. Risk Level 2–3: Rain Event Action Plans required; inspections during and after qualifying storms
- Inspector Qualification
- Qualified SWPPP Practitioner (QSP) for Risk Level 2 and 3 sites; Qualified SWPPP Developer (QSD) must prepare the SWPPP
Discharge Standards
- Turbidity Limit
- Risk Level 3 sites: effluent must meet 10 NTU turbidity limit at discharge point; Risk Level 2: 250 NTU; Risk Level 1: narrative standard
California has some of the most stringent discharge standards in the country, particularly for high-risk sites near sensitive receiving waters.
Post-Construction
- Required
- Yes
Post-construction requirements depend on local jurisdiction and whether the site is in an MS4 area. Many municipalities require Low Impact Development (LID) features and permanent BMPs.
Official Resources
State-Specific Notes
California's three-tier Risk Level system is unique among states and drives significantly different requirements for BMPs, monitoring, and reporting. Risk Level is determined by a rainfall erosivity factor and proximity to water bodies.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for general reference only and may not reflect the most current regulatory requirements. Always consult the SWRCB website and applicable regulations before beginning any construction activity.