Alaska Stormwater Management Law: Statewide Environmental Rules Rules (2026)

Key Facts

Statute: AS 46.03.100
Permitting agency: Alaska DEC
Construction trigger: 1 acre disturbance
Required document: SWPPP onsite
Max civil penalty: $100,000 per day

Full Breakdown

AS 46.03.100 prohibits discharging pollutants to waters of the state without an APDES permit. ADEC's stormwater program requires Construction General Permit coverage for sites disturbing one acre or more, Multi-Sector General Permit coverage for industrial facilities, and MS4 permits for designated municipalities. Permittees must develop a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan, install best management practices, and submit Notices of Intent before disturbance begins. ADEC enforcement applies statewide and is independent of municipal grading or drainage permits, which may add layers but cannot waive APDES requirements.

Violations & Penalties

Discharging without an APDES permit can carry civil penalties up to $100,000 per day per violation under AS 46.03.760, plus criminal penalties for knowing violations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an APDES permit for a small home addition?

Single-family projects disturbing less than one acre and not part of a larger common plan typically do not need APDES coverage, though local grading rules may still apply.

Who enforces stormwater rules in Alaska?

ADEC has primary state enforcement authority for APDES permits. EPA retains federal oversight, and designated MS4 municipalities enforce their permitted local programs alongside the state.

Alaska Stormwater Discharge Permitting Under APDES