Arkansas Statewide Rule
Arkansas Stormwater Discharge NPDES Permit Rules
Key Facts
- Construction Threshold
- 1 acre disturbed
- Regulator
- Arkansas DEQ
- Permit
- ARR150000 / ARR000000
- Statute
- Ark. Code 8-4-101
- Max Penalty
- $10,000 per day
Summary
Arkansas regulates stormwater discharges through the Department of Energy and Environment Division of Environmental Quality under federal Clean Water Act delegation. Construction and industrial sites statewide must obtain NPDES general permits, with municipal MS4 systems also under state oversight.
The Division of Environmental Quality or its successor is given and charged with the power and duty to issue, continue in effect, revoke, modify, or deny permits, under such conditions as it may prescribe: (1) To prevent, control, or abate pollution; (2) For the discharge of sewage, industrial waste, or other wastes into the waters of the state, including the disposal of pollutants into wells; and (3) For the installation, modification, or operation of disposal systems or any part of them.
Full Breakdown
The Arkansas Division of Environmental Quality (DEQ) administers the NPDES stormwater program under Arkansas Code 8-4-101 et seq. and Regulation 6. Construction sites disturbing one acre or more must obtain coverage under the ARR150000 General Permit, prepare a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan, and implement best management practices. Industrial activities require ARR000000 coverage. Phase II Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems in urbanized areas must implement six minimum control measures. Local governments may adopt stormwater ordinances meeting or exceeding state minimums but cannot relax federal NPDES baselines. Permit violations carry significant civil penalties.
Violations & Penalties
Discharging without permit coverage or violating SWPPP requirements can result in civil penalties up to $10,000 per day, mandatory corrective action, and federal EPA enforcement referral.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who enforces stormwater rules in Arkansas?
Do small construction sites need an Arkansas stormwater permit?
Sources
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.