Alabama enforces stormwater management statewide through ADEM's NPDES permits, requiring construction sites over one acre and MS4 communities to implement erosion controls, sediment basins, and post-construction best management practices regardless of city location.
Under the federal Clean Water Act and Alabama Code §22-22A, the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM) administers National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) stormwater permits. Construction operators disturbing one or more acres must obtain ADEM's General Permit ALR100000, prepare a Construction Best Management Practices Plan (CBMPP), and inspect controls weekly and after significant rain events. Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) operators in urbanized areas hold their own ADEM permits requiring six minimum control measures. Cities may impose stricter local rules but cannot waive the statewide ADEM permit requirements.
ADEM may issue civil penalties up to $25,000 per day per violation and stop-work orders for unpermitted discharges.
See how Lee County's stormwater management rules stack up against other locations.
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