New Hampshire Statewide Rule
New Hampshire Alteration of Terrain Stormwater Permits
Key Facts
- Statute
- RSA 485-A:17
- Threshold
- 100,000 sq ft
- Shoreland threshold
- 50,000 sq ft
- Agency
- NHDES
Summary
New Hampshire RSA 485-A:17 requires state Alteration of Terrain (AoT) permits from NHDES for projects disturbing 100,000+ square feet, establishing uniform stormwater management standards above any local stormwater rules.
I. Any person proposing to dredge, excavate, place fill, mine, transport forest products or undertake construction in or on the border of the surface waters of the state, and any person proposing to significantly alter the characteristics of the terrain, in such a manner as to impede the natural runoff or create an unnatural runoff, shall be directly responsible to submit to the department detailed plans concerning such proposal and any additional relevant information requested by the department, at least 30 days prior to undertaking any such activity. The operations shall not be undertaken unless and until the applicant receives a permit from the department.
Full Breakdown
Under RSA 485-A:17 and Env-Wq 1500, the NH Department of Environmental Services administers Alteration of Terrain permits for projects disturbing 100,000 square feet or more, or 50,000 square feet within a protected shoreland. Applications require erosion and sediment control plans, post-construction stormwater management, and treatment of water quality volumes. Designs must follow the NH Stormwater Manual. Municipalities may have additional local stormwater ordinances, but cannot weaken state AoT standards. The state framework also coordinates with EPA's MS4 program for regulated municipalities.
Violations & Penalties
Violations carry administrative fines up to $2,000 per day, restoration orders, and stop-work orders. Willful violations may incur criminal penalties.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do I need a state stormwater permit in New Hampshire?
What standards govern stormwater design?
Sources
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