Oklahoma Statewide Rule

Oklahoma Requires OKR10 Permits for Construction Stormwater and Erosion Control

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Oklahoma (2026)

Key Facts

Governing statute: 27A O.S. Section 2-6-205
Permit: OKR10 Construction General Permit
Trigger: 1 acre or more disturbed
Max daily fine: $10,000 per day
Per-violation cap: $125,000

Last verified: July 31, 2026

Summary

Any construction activity in Oklahoma that disturbs one acre or more must obtain a DEQ stormwater discharge permit (OKR10) before breaking ground, install erosion and sediment controls, and follow a stormwater pollution prevention plan. Discharging construction stormwater without a permit is unlawful statewide.

A. Except as otherwise provided in subsection B of this section, it shall be unlawful for any facility, activity or entity regulated by the Department of Environmental Quality pursuant to the Oklahoma Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Act to discharge any pollutant into waters of the state or elsewhere without first obtaining a permit from the Executive Director. B. The Environmental Quality Board shall promulgate rules which prescribe permit requirements applicable to discharges composed entirely of stormwater.

View official code

Full Breakdown

Under the Oklahoma Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Act, 27A O.S. Section 2-6-205(A), it is unlawful to discharge any pollutant, including sediment-laden construction stormwater, into waters of the state without a permit from the Department of Environmental Quality Executive Director. Subsection B directs the Environmental Quality Board to promulgate rules for stormwater discharges. DEQ implements this through the OKR10 Construction General Permit, which covers land disturbances of one acre or more, or smaller sites within a larger common plan of development, and requires a stormwater pollution prevention plan (SWPPP), erosion and sediment best management practices, buffers, and routine site inspections.

Violations & Penalties

DEQ may assess administrative fines up to $10,000 per day, capped at $125,000 per violation, under 27A O.S. Section 2-6-206, plus district-court civil penalties and injunctions; knowing violations can bring criminal prosecution.

Frequently Asked Questions

When do I need a construction stormwater permit in Oklahoma?

When your project disturbs one acre or more, or a smaller area that is part of a larger common plan of development disturbing at least an acre. Obtain OKR10 coverage before construction begins.

Who enforces construction erosion and stormwater rules statewide?

The Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) issues and enforces the OKR10 permit under the Oklahoma Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Act; the Environmental Quality Board sets the rules.

Sources

See something wrong?

Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.