Tennessee Statewide Rule
Tennessee Stormwater Permit Requirements Under TDEC
Key Facts
- Permit Threshold
- 1 acre disturbance
- Permit Type
- TDEC Construction General Permit
- Required Plan
- SWPPP with inspections
- Max Penalty
- $10,000 per day
Summary
Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation administers NPDES stormwater permits statewide, requiring construction sites disturbing one or more acres to obtain coverage regardless of municipal jurisdiction.
(a) Every person who is or is planning to carry on any of the activities outlined in subsection (b), other than a person who discharges into a publicly owned treatment works or who is a domestic discharger into a privately owned treatment works, or who is regulated under a general permit as described in subsection (l), shall file an application for a permit with the commissioner or, when necessary, for modification of such person's existing permit.
Full Breakdown
Under the Tennessee Water Quality Control Act (Tenn. Code Ann. Title 69, Chapter 3), TDEC operates the Construction General Permit (CGP) for stormwater discharges from construction sites disturbing one acre or more, including smaller sites in larger common plans. MS4 communities (designated municipal separate storm sewer systems) must implement six minimum control measures including post-construction stormwater management. Site operators must develop a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP), conduct inspections, and maintain best management practices. State permit requirements apply uniformly even where local stormwater ordinances impose additional standards.
Violations & Penalties
Violations may incur civil penalties up to $10,000 per day per violation under Tenn. Code 69-3-115, plus stop-work orders and required remediation.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do I need a Tennessee stormwater permit for construction?
What is a SWPPP in Tennessee?
Sources
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