Utica, NY Environmental Rules: Grading & Drainage (2026)

Throughout New York State, before commencing construction, the owner or operator of construction activities that will involve soil disturbance of one or more acres must obtain coverage under the State Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (SPDES) General Permit for Stormwater Discharges from Construction Activity, succinctly referred to as the Construction General Permit (CGP). Alternatively, the owner or operator of such construction activities must obtain coverage under an individual SPDES permit. In the New York City East of Hudson watershed, this requirement also applies to construction activities that will disturb 5,000 square feet or more, but less than one acre of land. In the municipal boundaries of the City of New York (NYC), this requirement also applies to construction activities that will disturb 20,000 square feet or more, but less than one acre of land, including less than 20,000 square feet which are part of a common plan of development or sale that will ultimately disturb 20,000 square feet or more, but less than one acre. In the municipal boundaries of NYC, this requirement also applies to construction activities that create 5,000 square feet or more of impervious area. Some exceptions to the requirements exist for agricultural projects, certain silvicultural projects, and routine maintenance activities. SPDES General Permit for Stormwater Discharges from Construction Activity, GP-0-25-001, Construction General Permit (CGP). This permit became effective on January 29, 2025, and expires on January 28, 2030.