Ohio NPDES Stormwater Discharge Permit Program

ORC 6111.04 prohibits any person from causing pollution of waters of the state without a permit, and ORC 6111.03 authorizes the Ohio EPA Director to issue NPDES general and individual permits. Construction activities disturbing one or more acres must obtain coverage under the Construction General Permit, prepare a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWP3), and install sediment and erosion controls. Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems (MS4s) in urbanized areas must hold MS4 permits and implement the six minimum control measures. Local governments may adopt stricter rules but cannot weaken state and federal standards.

Discharging without an NPDES permit, exceeding effluent limits, or failing to implement an approved SWP3 may result in administrative orders, civil penalties up to $10,000 per day per violation under ORC 6111.09, and criminal liability for knowing violations.