Tennessee Stormwater Management (2026)

Key Facts

Permit Threshold: 1 acre disturbance
Permit Type: TDEC Construction General Permit
Required Plan: SWPPP with inspections
Max Penalty: $10,000 per day

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?

Any project disturbing one or more acres of land, or smaller projects within a larger common plan of development, requires TDEC Construction General Permit coverage before earthwork begins.

What is a SWPPP in Tennessee?

A Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan documents site-specific erosion controls, inspection schedules, and best management practices required under the TDEC Construction General Permit for regulated sites.

Tennessee Stormwater Permit Requirements Under TDEC

Key Facts

Full Breakdown

Violations & Penalties

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

See something wrong?