Vermont Statewide Rule
Vermont Stormwater Permitting and Three-Acre Rule
Key Facts
- Statute
- 10 V.S.A. Section 1264
- Construction trigger
- 1+ acre disturbance
- Three-acre rule
- Existing impervious surface
- Regulator
- Agency of Natural Resources
- MS4 program
- Municipal stormwater permits
Summary
Vermont's Agency of Natural Resources administers a uniform statewide stormwater permit program covering construction, operational, and three-acre impervious surface sites, with rules that apply regardless of local ordinances under 10 V.S.A. Section 1264.
(7) In accordance with the schedule established under subdivision (g)(3) of this section, a person shall not discharge stormwater from impervious surface of three or more acres in size without first obtaining an individual permit or coverage under a general permit issued under this section if the discharge was never previously permitted or was permitted under an individual permit or general permit that did not incorporate the requirements of the 2002 Stormwater Management Manual or any subsequently adopted Stormwater Management Manual. The Secretary shall provide notice to all owners of property subject to the permit required under this subdivision.
Full Breakdown
Under 10 V.S.A. Section 1264 and the Vermont Stormwater Management Rule, properties with one or more acres of disturbed earth during construction or three or more acres of existing impervious surface in designated stormwater-impaired watersheds must obtain a state stormwater permit. The Agency of Natural Resources reviews plans, requires treatment practices, and enforces water quality standards adopted statewide. Municipalities may adopt complementary ordinances and operate municipal separate storm sewer systems under MS4 permits, but state authority preempts inconsistent local rules and applies the same technical standards uniformly across Vermont.
Violations & Penalties
Discharging without a permit or violating permit conditions may result in administrative penalties up to $42,500 per violation under 10 V.S.A. Section 8221 and required corrective restoration.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do I need a Vermont state stormwater permit?
Do local stormwater rules replace state requirements?
Sources
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