State of Florida

Department of Environmental Protection

NPDES Generic Permit

For

Stormwater Discharge from Large and Small Construction Activities

Effective Date: 02/2015

This permit is issued under the provisions of Section 403.0885, Florida Statutes, and
applicable rules of the Florida Administrative Code pursuant to the Department’s
federally-approved National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES)
stormwater regulatory program. Stormwater discharge associated with large construction
activity, as defined at 40 C.F.R. Part 122.26(b)(14)(x) and herein, is regulated pursuant
to Section 402(p)(2) of the federal Clean Water Act (CWA). Stormwater discharge
associated with small construction activity, as defined at 40 C.F.R. 122.26(b)(15) and
herein, is regulated pursuant to Section 402(p)(6) of the CWA. This permit constitutes
authorization to discharge stormwater associated with large and small construction
activities to surface waters of the State, including through a Municipal Separate Storm
Sewer System (MS4). Until this permit is terminated, modified or revoked, permittees
that have properly obtained coverage under this permit are authorized to discharge to
surface waters of the State, including through an MS4, in accordance with the terms and
conditions of this permit.
TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART 1: PERMIT COVERAGE.....................................................................1

PART 2: YOUR APPLICATION = NOTICE OF INTENT (NOI) ................. 3
PART 3: DISCHARGES ................................................................................5
PART 4: STORMWATER POLLUTION PREVENTION PLAN (SWPPP)..7
PART 5: BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES (BMPs) ............................ 10
PART 6: INSPECTIONS AND RECORDS ................................................. 12
PART 7: COMPLETION = NOTICE OF TERMINATION (NOT) .............. 16
PART 8: DEFINITIONS AND ACRONYMS ......................................... 17-21
PART 9: STANDARD PERMIT CONDITIONS .......................................... 22

HOW TO USE THIS DOCUMENT

This generic permit is written in plain English. It sets forth a series of questions along with the
answers that are designed to make it easier for you to understand who needs a permit, how you
get permit coverage, and what you must do to meet the permit’s requirements. Underlined blue
words are terms that are defined in Part 8, Definitions and Acronyms. If you click on these
words, you will be taken to the part of the document where the term is defined. To get back to
your original part of the document, you must install the “BACK” button for Word.

To install the “BACK” button and “FORWARD” button, complete these steps:

1. Click the Microsoft office button or FILE in the top left corner of your Word window.
2. Click on “Word Options” at the bottom of the menu.
3. Click on “Customize” from the left pane.
4. In “Choose commands from” drop-down menu, select “All Commands”.
5. From the list of commands find “Back” and click “Add”
6. Similarly, find “Forward” and click “Add”
 This Document Constitutes Your Permit

PART 1: PERMIT
COVERAGE
Do I need this permit for my
project?

1.1 When is this permit required?

An NPDES Stormwater construction generic permit is required for any construction
activities that:
1.1.1 Disturb one or more acres of land or disturb less than one acre of land but are
part of a common plan of development or sale; and
1.1.2 Discharge stormwater to surface waters of the state or to surface waters of the
State through a municipal separate storm sewer system (MS4).
You, the Responsible Authority, shall apply either for an individual permit or for coverage
under this National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Construction
Generic Permit (CGP). The Responsible Authority of a construction activity is ultimately
responsible for obtaining and complying with this permit.

1.2 What does the CGP allow me to do?

The CGP allows you to discharge surface stormwater associated with large or small
construction activity to waters of the State, either directly or through an MS4.

1.3 If I obtain the CGP, do I still need an Environmental Resource Permit (ERP)
or other permit?
Obtaining coverage under the CGP does not relieve you of the requirement to obtain an
Environmental Resource Permit (ERP). If an ERP is required then contact the
Department, the appropriate water management district, or a delegated local program for
more information. You may also need to obtain other required permits from federal,
state, or local governments.

1.4 Do I need this permit if I am one of several contractors working at a

common site?
1.4.1 If you are a contractor or subcontractor acting under the direction of an operator
or other entity who has received coverage under the CGP for your construction
activities, you do not have to obtain your own coverage under this permit, but
must be named on the operator’s SWPPP and separately sign the SWPPP
certification (see Part 4.5).

DEP Document No. 62-621.300(4)(a)

Effective 02/2015 1|Page
 1.4.2 If you are not named in the SWPPP or are not acting under the direction of the
responsible authority who has obtained permit coverage, you must obtain your
own permit.

1.5 Are there any limitations of coverage?

The following stormwater discharges from construction sites are not authorized by this
permit. This permit specifically does not allow you to do any of the following:
1.5.1 Cause or contribute to a violation of surface water quality standards;
1.5.2 Discharges stormwater mixed with non-stormwater, except as otherwise provided
in Part 3 of this CGP;
1.5.3 Discharge stormwater that originates from the site after construction
activities have been completed and the site has undergone final
stabilization;
1.5.4 Discharges that are mixed with sources of non-stormwater;
1.5.5 Discharges stormwater associated with construction activities that are
covered under an existing generic or individual permit. Such discharges
may be authorized under this permit after the existing generic permit or
individual permit term of coverage expires or is terminated, provided the
existing permit did not establish numeric limitations for such discharges; or
1.5.6 Discharges stormwater associated with construction activity that the
Department has determined to be or may reasonably be expected to be
causing or contributing to a violation of surface water quality standards.
 PART 2: YOUR APPLICATION =
NOTICE OF INTENT (NOI)
How do
I apply for coverage
under this permit?

2.1 How do I apply for coverage under this permit?

You must:
2.1.1 Submit a "Notice of Intent to Use Generic Permit for Stormwater Discharge from
Large and Small Construction Activities, DEP Form 62-621.300(4)(b)," also
known as Notice of Intent or NOI, to the Department; and
2.1.2 Submit the required permit application fee. For Large construction sites
disturbing 5 or more acres, the required fee is $400. For Small construction sites
disturbing 1- 4.99 acres, the required fee is $250. Land disturbances less than
one acre of land but are part of a common plan of development or sale must
apply for coverage.

2.2 What must I do before applying for the CGP?

Before you submit your NOI, you must develop and be ready to implement a Stormwater
Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP). The minimum requirements for a SWPPP are listed
in Part 4.

2.3 Where can I obtain and file my NOI and permit fee?
2.3.1 You can submit your NOI and payment electronically through the Department
business portal at http://www.fldepportal.com/go/. Permit fees must be paid by
check, credit card or debit card.
2.3.2 Alternatively, you can submit a paper copy of your NOI by downloading the form
at: http://www.dep.state.fl.us/water/stormwater/npdes/permits_forms.htm and
submitting it, along with your permit fee, to the Notices Center.

2.4 Who can sign the NOI?

The responsible authority must sign the NOI unless the responsible authority designates
a duly authorized representative who may sign on the responsible authority’s behalf as
prescribed in Part 8.9.

DEP Document No. 62-621.300(4)(a)

Effective 02/2015 3|Page
2.5 When is the NOI due?
2.5.1 For a new project, you must submit a complete NOI and permit fee at least 2
calendar days before commencement of construction by clearing, grading,
excavating, demolition, or other construction activities disturbing soil. An
application is complete upon submittal of all requested information, submittal of
the required permit fee, and correction of any error or omission for which the
applicant was timely notified or when the time for such notification has expired.
2.5.2 For a project continuing beyond the five-year term of any existing CGP permit
coverage, you must submit the complete NOI and permit fee at least 2 calendar
days before your current permit expires to renew your coverage.
2.5.3 For a project where the operator changes, the new operator must submit the
complete NOI and permit fee at least 2 calendar days before assuming control of
the project.

2.6 What happens after I submit my NOI and Permit fee?

Your NOI will be determined complete or incomplete:
2.6.1 If incomplete, the Department will contact you to request additional information or
request payment of the required permit fee.
2.6.2 If complete, the Department will send you an acknowledgment letter that will
identify the term of your permit coverage.
2.6.3 You must post a copy of the NOI or, post a copy of the acknowledgment letter at
the construction site in a prominent place for public viewing, such as alongside a
building permit.
2.6.4 If your project discharges stormwater to an MS4, you must send a copy of the
NOI or the acknowledgement letter within 7 calendar days of receipt to the
operator of the MS4.

2.7 What is the term of my permit coverage?

2.7.1 The term of your permit coverage begins 2 calendar days after the Department
determines your submittal complete, and lasts 5 years or until you terminate your
coverage under the permit.
 PART 3: DISCHARGES
What discharges are allowed
under this permit?

3.1 What discharges are allowed under this permit?

With limited exceptions, the CGP only allows stormwater discharges associated with
construction activities and dewatering operations described in Part 3.4. The exceptions
are listed below (see Parts 3.2 and 3.4).

3.2 What non-stormwater discharges does the CGP allow?

You can discharge the following types of non-stormwater discharges, if they are listed in
your SWPPP and your SWPPP includes appropriate pollution prevention procedures as
to not cause or contribute to a violation of water quality standards.
3.2.1 Discharges from firefighting activities.
3.2.2 Fire hydrant flushings.
3.2.3 Waters without detergents used to spray off loose solids from vehicles.
3.2.4 Waters used to control dust.
3.2.5 Potable water sources such as waterline flushings.
3.2.6 Landscape irrigation water and drainage.
3.2.7 Routine external building washdown provided no detergents are used.
3.2.8 Pavement washwaters that do not contain detergents, leaks, spills of toxic or
hazardous materials.
3.2.9 Air conditioning condensate.
3.2.10 Spring water.
3.2.11 Foundation or footing drain flows that are not contaminated with process material
such as solvents.
3.2.12 Noncontaminated ground water associated with dewatering activities as
described in Part 3.4.

3.3 What non-stormwater discharges are prohibited by the CGP?

The following non-stormwater discharges are prohibited by the CGP:
3.3.1 Wastewater from concrete washout.
3.3.2 Wastewater from washout or cleanout of stucco, paint, form release oils, curing
compounds, and other construction materials.
3.3.3 Fuels, oils, or other pollutants from vehicle and equipment operation and
maintenance.
3.3.4 Soaps, detergents, solvents, or other cleaners.
3.3.5 Hazardous substances or oil resulting from an on-site spill.

DEP Document No. 62-621.300(4)(a)

Effective 02/2015 5|Page
 3.3.6 Solid materials, including building materials.
3.3.7 Any other non-stormwater discharge not specifically allowed by Part 3.2 of the
CGP.

3.4 Can I discharge water from groundwater dewatering operations under this
permit?
3.4.1 The CGP authorizes the discharge of uncontaminated ground water.
3.4.2 If your project site is uncontaminated, in accordance with Part 3.4.3 below, you
are authorized under the CGP to discharge uncontaminated groundwater
resulting from construction-related dewatering operations. To obtain this
authorization, you must complete Part VI of the NOI. The operator is responsible
for ensuring the groundwater is uncontaminated.
3.4.3 An uncontaminated site must meet the following conditions:
The property is either (a) not identified as a contaminated site and there is no
identified contaminated site within 500 feet, or (b) it is identified as a
contaminated site, but DEP documentation confirms that the contamination has
been remediated or the pollutants of concern from the contaminated site are not
present in groundwater at the project site at concentrations equal to or greater
than the surface water criteria in Rule 62-302.530, F.A.C.
3.4.4 Documentation that the project site is uncontaminated must be kept at the project
site with the SWPPP.
3.4.5 Appropriate dewatering BMPs shall be implemented to ensure that
discharges from dewatering operations do not cause or contribute to
violations of water quality standards. (See Part 5.8.) The BMPs must be
included in the Dewatering Section of the SWPPP.
3.4.6 Discharges from dewatering operations must:
a) Not include visible floating solids or foam;
b) When feasible, discharge onto vegetated upland areas of the site
where the water can infiltrate. As an alternative, the water can be
discharged into the permitted stormwater system serving the project
site.

Note: Backwash water should be managed such that it is not discharged

directly to waters of the State. Backwash water may be hauled away for
proper disposal or returned to the beginning of the treatment process.

3.5 What if I suspect the discharge from dewatering operations are from a
contaminated site?
3.5.1 If a discharge from dewatering operations causes or contributes to a water
quality violation, the permittee shall contact the Department. This permit
only authorizes the discharge of uncontaminated groundwater. A site that
does not meet the conditions of 3.4.3 may qualify for coverage under Rule
62-621.300(1), F.A.C., or under an individual wastewater permit on the
appropriate form listed in Rule 62-620.910, F.A.C.
3.5.2 Coverage under this permit may be suspended, revoked and reissued, or
terminated in accordance with Rule 62-620.345, F.A.C., if the Department
determines that there has been a violation of any of the terms or conditions
of the permit, there has been a violation of state water quality standards or
the permittee has submitted false, incomplete or inaccurate data or
information.
 PART 4: STORMWATER
POLLUTION PREVENTION
PLAN (SWPPP)
How do I develop my
stormwater pollution
prevention plan?

4.1 What is the purpose of the SWPPP?

The purpose of the SWPPP is to document how you will comply with the requirements of
this permit.

4.2 How do I develop my (SWPPP)?

You must prepare a SWPPP following standard industry practices. You can find training,
samples, guidance, templates, and links to other resources to help you develop your
SWPPP on our web page:
http://www.dep.state.fl.us/water/stormwater/npdes/construction3.htm.

4.3 When must I start following my SWPPP?

You must develop your SWPPP before you submit your NOI. You must start following
your SWPPP when you receive coverage under this permit. If your SWPPP requires
perimeter controls, they must be installed before the commencement of your
construction activities.

4.4 Where do I keep my SWPPP and other records and how long do I have to
retain them?
4.4.1 Keep all of these records at the construction site, or at an appropriate alternative
location as specified in the NOI.
4.4.2 You must maintain a site log notebook or computer file folder that contains
copies of the NOI, the acknowledgement letter granting coverage, your SWPPP,
all your inspections reports, records, and all notifications from the Department
concerning your site.
4.4.3 Keep all of these records for three years from the date that the site has reached
final stabilization and the Notice of Termination (NOT) is submitted.

4.5 How often must I update my SWPPP?

You must keep your SWPPP current. You must sign and date any changes to the
SWPPP and keep them as attachments to the original plan. Whenever any of the
following events occur, you have seven calendar days to update your SWPPP:

DEP Document No. 62-621.300(4)(a)

Effective 02/2015 7|Page
 4.5.1 There is a change in design, construction, operation, or maintenance that has a
significant effect on the discharge from your project.
4.5.2 There is a new discharge point or outfall.
4.5.3 There is a change in the location of a discharge point or outfall.
4.5.4 An inspection (see Part 6) reveals that BMPs are ineffective at eliminating or
minimizing pollutants in the stormwater discharged from the site.
4.5.5 There is a new operator, contractor, or subcontractor implementing any portion of
the SWPPP. If a new operator is taking over a portion of the project site, you
must update your SWPPP to note the area that is no longer covered by your
CGP and inform the new operator in writing that you are no longer covering
construction activities in that area. This documentation must be kept as part of
your SWPPP. (See Part 1.4).
4.5.6 A release containing a hazardous substance in an amount equal to or greater
than a reportable quantity occurs during a 24-hour period. (See Part 9.2 for
important information about releases of hazardous substances in excess of
reportable quantities.)

4.6 Who needs to sign the SWPPP?

All contractors and subcontractors identified in the SWPPP must sign a copy of the
following certification statement before conducting any construction activities at the site.
The certifications must have the name and title of the person signing the certification; the
name, address, and telephone number of the contracting firm; and the signature date.
"I certify under penalty of law that I understand, and shall comply with, the terms and
conditions of the State of Florida Generic Permit for Stormwater Discharge from Large
and Small Construction Activities and this Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan."

4.7 What needs to be in the SWPPP?

Table 4.7-1 lists the items that must be included in your plan. The SWPPP must clearly
identify the contractor(s) or subcontractor(s) that will implement each item.
Table 4.7.1 Contents of the SWPPP
Identify the personnel (by name or position) that are part of the
Stormwater stormwater team responsible for implementing the SWPPP,
Team including the qualified inspector. List their individual
responsibilities in developing or implementing the SWPPP.
List all the contractors or subcontractors who will be conducting
Contractors construction activities at the site, and identify the areas of the site
/Subcontractors in which they will be working. All listed contractors and
subcontractors must sign the certification.
• Describe the nature of the construction activity.
• Describe the intended sequence and time table of major
activities that will disturb soils.
• Include the scheduled starting and ending date for each
major activity such as land clearing, grubbing, grading,
cut and fill, dewatering operations, installation of erosion
Site/Construction
and sediment controls, installation of stormwater
Activities Description
management systems, paving, final or temporary
stabilization of exposed soil, and removal of construction
equipment and vehicles.
• Estimate the total area of the site and the total area that
is expected to be disturbed by excavation, grading, or
other construction activity.
 •
Include existing data on soil types and the quality of any
existing discharge from the site.
• For each proposed discharge point provide the following:
 Latitude and Longitude
 Drainage Area
 Surface Waters or MS4
• Estimate the amount of land that will be cleared during
the construction activity for each drainage area.
Include a site map showing all of the following:
• Boundaries of the property.
• Entrance/Exit Points
• Locations where construction activities will occur.
• Locations where dewatering operation will occur.
• Drainage patterns and approximate slopes and
elevations anticipated after major grading activities.
Site Map • Areas of soil disturbance.
• Areas which will not be disturbed.
• Location of major structural and nonstructural controls.
• Location of areas where stabilization practices are
expected to occur.
• Location of surface waters and wetlands.
• Location where stormwater is proposed to be discharged
during construction to a surface water or MS4.
List all non-stormwater discharges covered under this permit and
Non-stormwater
the pollution prevention procedures that will be implemented. (See
Discharges
Part 3.3)
Include a description of the BMPs that will be used to ensure that
Dewatering Controls discharges of noncontaminated ground water from dewatering
(Applicable) operations do not cause or contribute to violations of state water
quality standards.
Describe the BMPs that will be implemented for each major
BMPs activity and the timing during the construction process that they
will be implemented. (See Part 5 )
Describe the stormwater management controls or BMPs (e.g.,
stormwater detention or retention systems, vegetated swales, or
Permanent stormwater
velocity dissipation devices at discharge points) that will be
management controls
installed during the construction process to control pollutants in
stormwater discharges. (See Part 5.7)
Must be at least once every seven calendar days and within 24-
Inspections hours of the end of a storm event that is 0.50 inches or greater
(even if it rains on the weekend or a holiday) (See Part 6)
Describe the maintenance activities and schedules that will be
Maintenance
followed to keep BMPs in good and effective operating condition.
Include all the signed contractors and subcontractors certifications
Signed Certifications
in the SWPPP.

DEP Document No. 62-621.300(4)(a)

Effective 02/2015 9|Page
 PART 5: BEST MANAGEMENT
PRACTICES (BMPs)
What BMPs apply to my
project?

5.1 What BMPs am I required to use on my project?

Construction activities must not cause or contribute to a water quality violation or offsite
sedimentation. You are encouraged to phase your construction activities to avoid
potential water quality violations. BMPs must be installed before the commencement of
your construction activities.
All BMPs must be consistent with the guidelines contained in the State of Florida Erosion
and Sediment Control Designer and Reviewer Manual, FDOT and FDEP (2013)
http://www.stormwater.ucf.edu/publications/2013RevisedDesignerManual.pdf, or from
http://www.flrules.org/Gateway/reference.asp?No=Ref-04227.

You are required to comply with the following:

5.1.1 You must implement pollution prevention control BMPs described in Part 5.2.
5.1.2 You must implement erosion and sediment control BMPs as described in Part
5.3.
5.1.3 You must stabilize soils in accordance with Part 5.4.
5.1.4 You must implement structural controls as described in Part 5.5.
5.1.5 You must implement dewatering BMPs as described in Part 5.8.
5.1.6 If you disturb more than 10 acres at any one time, you must comply with the
requirements of Part 5.6 relating to sediment basins.
5.1.7 All BMPs must be maintained until Final Stabilization has been achieved for the
portions of the site served by the BMPs. BMPs include pollution prevention
controls, erosion and sediment controls, stabilization practices, and structural
controls. All BMPs must be described in your SWPPP.
5.1.8 Dewatering BMPs must be maintained throughout the duration of dewatering
operations.
5.1.9 Temporary perimeter controls must be removed after final stabilization.

5.2 What pollution prevention control BMPs must be implemented?

You must, at a minimum, install, implement, and maintain pollution prevention control
BMPs that accomplish all of the following:
5.2.1 Minimize the discharge of pollutants from equipment and vehicle washing, wheel
wash water, and other wash waters that are covered under this permit so as to
not cause a violation of water quality standards or offsite sedimentation.
 5.2.2 Minimize the exposure of building materials, building products, construction
wastes, trash, landscape materials, fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, detergents,
sanitary waste, toxic substances, and other materials present on the site to rain
and to stormwater that may run onto or across your site so as to not cause or
contribute to a violation of water quality standards.
5.2.3 Minimize the discharge of pollutants from spills and leaks. Your SWPPP must
include and you must implement chemical spill and leak prevention and response
procedures.

5.3 What erosion and sediment control BMPs apply?

You must, at a minimum, install, implement, and maintain appropriate erosion and
sediment controls that accomplish all of the following so as to not cause or contribute to
a violation of water quality standards and minimize offsite sedimentation:
5.3.1 Control stormwater volume and velocity within the site to minimize soil erosion
and offsite sedimentation.
5.3.2 Control stormwater peak discharge rates and volume to minimize erosion at
discharge outfalls and to minimize downstream channel and stream bank
erosion.
5.3.3 Minimize the amount of soil exposed during the construction activity.
5.3.4 Minimize the disturbance of steep slopes.
5.3.5 Minimize sediment discharges from the site.
5.3.6 Minimize off-site vehicle tracking of sediments onto paved surfaces and the
generation of dust so as to prevent the potential for water quality violations and
offsite sedimentation. If sediment escapes the construction site, remove off-site
accumulations of sediment at a frequency sufficient to minimize off-site impacts.
5.3.7 In selecting your sediment and erosion controls, you must consider factors such
as the amount, frequency, intensity, and duration of precipitation; the
characteristics of the resulting stormwater; and the site’s soil characteristics,
including the range of soil particle sizes expected to be present on the site.

5.4 Do I have to use Stabilization Measures?

You must initiate stabilization measures within 7 calendar days after construction
activities have temporarily or permanently ceased for any portion of the site.
Stabilization measures include:
• Temporary seeding.
• Permanent seeding.
• Mulching.
• Geotextiles.
• Sod stabilization.
• Vegetative buffer strips.
• Protection of trees.
• Preservation of mature vegetation.
• Other appropriate measures.

DEP Document No. 62-621.300(4)(a)

Effective 02/2015 11 | P a g e
 5.4.1 You must include in your SWPPP, and update when necessary, the dates when
major grading activities occur, when construction activities temporarily or
permanently cease on a portion of the site, and when stabilization measures are
initiated.
5.4.2 You must achieve Final Stabilization prior to filing a Notice of Termination in
accordance with Part 7.1 or the expiration of coverage under this, or a
subsequent, generic permit.

5.5 Do I have to use Structural Practices?

You must use controls to accomplish the following:
5.5.1 As necessary to prevent violations of water quality or offsite sedimentation, you
must divert flows from exposed soils, store flows, retain sediment on site, or
otherwise limit runoff and the discharge of pollutants from exposed areas of the
site.
5.5.2 Structural practices to prevent violations of water quality or offsite sedimentation,
which may include the following: silt fences, earth dikes, diversions, swales,
sediment traps, check dams, subsurface drains, pipe slope drains, level
spreaders, storm drain inlet protection, rock outlet protection, reinforced soil
retaining systems, gabions, coagulating agents, and temporary or permanent
sediment basins.
5.5.3 Silt fences or equivalent structural controls are required for all side slope and
down slope boundaries of the construction area.
5.5.4 Structural best management practices must be placed on upland soils unless a
State of Florida environmental resource permit issued pursuant to Chapter 373,
F.S., or applicable regulations of the DEP or WMD otherwise authorize.

5.6 What requirements apply to sediment basins?

If you have 10 or more disturbed acres on your site, the following design requirements
shall be met:
• For drainage basins with 10 or more disturbed acres at one time, a
temporary (or permanent) sediment or wet detention basin providing
3,600 cubic feet of storage per acre drained must be provided until final
stabilization of the site. The 3,600 cubic feet of storage area per acre
drained does not apply to flows from off-site areas and flows from on-
site areas that are either undisturbed or have undergone final
stabilization where such flows are diverted around both the disturbed
area and the sediment basin.
• For drainage basins with 10 or more disturbed acres at one time and
where a temporary sediment basin providing 3,600 cubic feet of storage
per acre drained is not attainable, a combination of smaller sediment
basins, sediment traps, wet detention systems, or other best
management practices must be used.
5.6.1 For drainage basins of less than 10 disturbed acres, sediment basins and
sediment traps are recommended but not required.
5.6.2 Areas that will be used for permanent stormwater infiltration treatment (e.g.,
stormwater retention basins) should not be used for temporary sediment basins
unless appropriate measures are taken to assure removal of accumulated fine
sediments, to avoid excessive compaction of soils by construction machinery or
equipment, and to assure that the design infiltration capacity is met.
5.7 What requirements apply to permanent stormwater management controls?
Your SWPPP must include a description of stormwater management controls or BMPs
(e.g., stormwater detention or retention systems, vegetated swales, or velocity
dissipation devices at discharge points) that will be installed during the construction
process to control pollutants in stormwater discharges that will occur during construction
and after construction operations have been completed.
Under this CGP, you are only responsible for the installation and maintenance of
stormwater management controls until the construction activities have been completed
and the site has undergone final stabilization. However, all stormwater management
systems and BMPs must be operated and maintained in perpetuity after final
stabilization in accordance with requirements set forth in the State of Florida
environmental resource permit issued under Part IV, Chapter 373, F.S.

5.8 What Dewatering BMPs can I use?

The operator shall develop and implement site specific control measures or BMPs to
minimize or eliminate pollutant discharges resulting from dewatering operations to
surface waters of the state. Appropriate BMPs shall have been developed and
implemented upon commencement of the discharge. The most common BMPs for
treating dewatering discharges include sediment traps and basins, weir and dewatering
tanks, filters, and chemical treatment. These technologies and approaches provide a
number of options to achieve sediment removal. The sizes of the particle that make up
the sediments are a key consideration in selecting sediment control options.

DEP Document No. 62-621.300(4)(a)

Effective 02/2015 13 | P a g e
 PART 6: INSPECTIONS
How should I inspect my
project?

6.1 When must I inspect my site? By whom?

Your site must be inspected at least once every seven calendar days and within 24
hours of the end of a storm event that is 0.50 inches or greater (even if it rains on the
weekend or a holiday). Your site must be inspected by a qualified inspector that you
must provide.

6.2 What must your inspection cover?

Your qualified inspector must:
6.2.1 Inspect all stormwater discharges from the site to ensure BMPs are not causing
or contributing to violations of water quality standards or resulting in offsite
sedimentation. http://www.dep.state.fl.us/water/wqssp/classes.htm
6.2.2 Inspect the BMPs identified in the SWPPP to ensure that they are installed,
maintained, and operating correctly and effectively.
6.2.3 Inspect all areas used for storage of materials that are exposed to rainfall and
runoff to ensure all BMPs are being used and maintained properly.
6.2.4 Inspect all locations where vehicles enter or exit the site for evidence of offsite
sediment tracking and inform operator of all actions needing to be taken to
remove sediments on the road and prevent it in the future.
6.2.5 Inspect all distributed areas and discharge points for signs of visible erosion and
sedimentation.

6.3 What information must be included in the inspection report?

The report must contain all of the following:
6.3.1 Scope of the inspection.
6.3.2 Name(s) and qualifications of personnel making the inspection.
6.3.3 Date(s) of the inspection.
6.3.4 Rainfall data.
6.3.5 Major observations relating to the implementation of the SWPPP.
6.3.6 Corrective actions taken since last inspection in accordance with Part 6.4.
6.3.7 Any incidents of non-compliance. (Where an inspection does not identify any
incidents of non-compliance, the report must certify that the facility is in
compliance with the SWPPP and the CGP.)
6.3.8 Signature of the qualified inspector that prepared the report. (See Part 9.1,
below.)
6.3.9 Signature of a responsible authority. (See Part 9.1, below.)

6.4 If the inspection identifies needed corrective actions, when must they be
accomplished?
Based on the results of the inspection, all corrective actions needed to assure proper
 operation of all controls identified in your SWPPP or to ensure that the requirements of
the permit are met must be done in a timely manner, but in no case later than 7 calendar
days following the inspection or identification of the issue. If needed, you must revise
your SWPPP and modify your controls in a timely manner, but in no case later than 7
calendar days following the inspection or identification of the issue. (See Part 4.4)

6.5 Can I temporarily suspend the weekly/0.5 inch inspections?

6.5.1 Once you have achieved final stabilization, you may suspend inspections.
6.5.2 You may reduce the frequency of inspections to once per month on your site if
you:
6.5.2.1 Have achieved temporary stabilization that is successful at stabilizing
the site for the duration of your suspended construction activities; and
6.5.2.2 Have your SWPPP updated as to why you are suspending construction
activities at your site and have met the conditions of 6.5.1. The SWPPP
must include:
a. The status and type of stabilization implemented,
b. The date the activities were suspended, and
c. The anticipated date activities will resume.

6.5.3 If construction activity resumes in this portion of the site at a later date, the
inspection frequency immediately returns to the frequency required by this permit
under Part 6.1. You are at all times responsible for ensuring that your temporary
stabilization methods are in compliance with permit conditions.
6.5.4 If at any time after you suspend construction activities you determine the site will
not resume activities during the term of your permit coverage, you must achieve
Final Stabilization and file a Notice of Termination. During that intermediate
period of time all terms of this permit will apply.

DEP Document No. 62-621.300(4)(a)

Effective 02/2015 15 | P a g e
 PART 7: COMPLETION =
NOTICE OF TERMINATION
(NOT)
What should I do when
my project is complete?

7.1 What must I do when my project is complete or I no longer need the permit
coverage?
Within 14 calendar days after your site has achieved final stabilization and all discharges
authorized by this permit are eliminated or are authorized under a separate NPDES
permit, you must submit a completed Notice of Termination (NOT) form.
7.1.1 All dewatering discharges authorized by this permit have ceased.
7.1.2 All construction activity discharges authorized by this permit have ceased.
Elimination of stormwater discharges associated with construction activity means that all
disturbed soils at the site have been final stabilized, that temporary erosion and
sediment control measures have been removed or will be removed at an appropriate
time, and that all stormwater discharges associated with construction activity from the
site that are authorized by the CGP have been eliminated.

7.2 Can I transfer the CGP following a sale or transfer of project operation?
Coverage under the CGP is not transferable. The new owner/operator will need to
complete a SWPPP and submit a new NOI and processing fee. You need to end the
current permit coverage by submitting a Notice of Termination (NOT) within 14 calendar
days of relinquishing control of the project to a new owner/operator. It is the
responsibility of the new owner/operator to obtain coverage before the NOT is submitted.

7.3 How do I submit my NOT?

7.3.1 You can submit the form electronically: To file your NOT online go to:
http://www.fldepportal.com/go/
7.3.2 Alternatively you can submit a NOT by email to the Notices Center: To download
the NOT go to:
http://www.dep.state.fl.us/water/stormwater/npdes/permits_forms.htm
For additional assistance please contact the Notice Center at: (866) 336-6312 (toll-free).

7.4 Who can sign the NOT?

The responsible authority must sign the NOI unless the responsible authority designates
a duly authorized representative who may sign on the responsible authority’s behalf.

7.5 What happens after I submit my NOT?

The Department will send you an acknowledgment letter by email. If your project
discharged stormwater to a permitted MS4, you must send a copy of the NOT or the
acknowledgement letter within 7 calendar days of receipt to the operator of the MS4.
 PART 8: DEFINITIONS
AND ACRONYMS
What definitions and
acronyms do I need to
know?

DEFINITIONS
8.1 "Best Management Practices" or "BMPs"
Schedules of activities, prohibitions of practices, maintenance procedures, and other
management practices to prevent or reduce the pollution of surface waters. BMPs also
include treatment requirements, operating procedures, and practices to control site
runoff, spillage or leaks, sludge or waste disposal, or drainage from raw material
storage. BMPs also include sediment and erosion controls, stabilization measures, and
pollution prevention controls as described in: State of Florida Erosion and Sediment
Control Designer and Reviewer Manual, FDOT and FDEP (2013)
http://www.stormwater.ucf.edu/publications/2013RevisedDesignerManual.pdf, or from
http://www.flrules.org/Gateway/reference.asp?No=Ref-04227.

8.2 "Construction Activity"

The act or process of developing or improving land, including demolition and renovation
activity, which involves the disturbance of soils not limited to, clearing, grading, and
excavation.

8.3 "Contaminated Site"

Any site that contains or did contain pollutants of concern in the groundwater that
exceed the surface water criteria in 62-302.530, F.A.C.

8.4 "Commencement of Construction"

Means the initial disturbance of soil associated with clearing, grading, or excavating
activities or other construction activities.

8.5 "Common Plan of Development or Sale"

A single plan of development or sale for a site where one or more separate and distinct
construction activities are occurring on one or more schedules by one or more
contractors. This may include:

DEP Document No. 62-621.300(4)(a)

Effective 02/2015 17 | P a g e
 • Phased projects and projects with multiple lots, even if the separate phases or
lots will be constructed under separate contract or by separate owners (e.g., a
development where lots are sold to separate builders).
• A development plan that may be phased over multiple years, but is still under a
consistent plan for long-term development.
• Projects in a contiguous area that may be unrelated but still under the same
contract, such as construction of a building extension and a new parking lot at
the same facility.
• Linear projects such as roads, pipelines, or utilities.

8.6 "Department" or "DEP"

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

8.7 "Dewatering activities"

For the purposes of this generic permit means temporarily lowering the ground water
level, whether confined or unconfined, by mechanical pumping to allow for construction
and excavation activities at the construction site covered by this generic permit.
8.8 "Discharge Point” or Outfall"
For the purposes of this permit, the location where collected and/or concentrated
stormwater flows are discharged from the construction site.

8.9 "Duly Authorized Representative"

A duly authorized representative is a person who has been designated by the
responsible authority to sign documents relating to this permit on the responsible
authority’s behalf. A responsible authority may authorize a duly authorized
representative by submitting to the Notices Center, by email or in writing an authorization
that names either an individual or a position having overall responsibility for the
operation of the your project, such as the project engineer, project superintendent, a
position of equivalent responsibility, or an individual or position having overall
responsibility for implementing the CGP at the site.
If an authorization is no longer valid because a different individual or position has overall
responsibility for the operation of your project, a new authorization satisfying the above
requirements must be submitted to the Notices Center prior to or together with any
reports, information, or applications to be signed by an authorized representative.

8.10 "Environmental Resource Permit" or "ERP"

The permit issued under Part IV, Chapter 373, F.S., by the Department, a WMD, or
delegated local program that ensures that the stormwater flood control, stormwater
treatment, and wetland protection requirements are met.

8.11 "Final Stabilization"

All soil disturbing activities at the site have been completed, and that a uniform (e.g.,
evenly distributed, without large bare areas) perennial vegetative cover with a density of
at least 70% for all unpaved areas and areas not covered by permanent structures has
been established or equivalent permanent stabilization measures (e.g., geotextiles) have
been employed.

8.12 "Groundwater"
Means water beneath the surface of the ground within a zone of saturation, whether or
not flowing through known and definite channels.
8.13 "Large Construction Activity"
Construction activity that results in the disturbance of five or more acres of total land
area. Large construction activity also includes the disturbance of less than five acres of
total land area that is part of a larger common plan of development or sale that will
cumulatively disturb five acres or more.

8.14 "Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System" or "MS4"

An MS4 as defined in Chapter 62-624.200, F.A.C. (for more information)
http://www.dep.state.fl.us/legal/Rules/shared/62-624.pdf

8.15 "Nonstructural Controls"

Practices that are specifically intended to reduce the amount of pollution getting into
stormwater or surface waters. Nonstructural controls are generally implemented to
address the problem at the source. They do not require any structural changes to the
facility. Examples of nonstructural control practices include pollution prevention BMPs,
good housekeeping practices, and preventative maintenance programs.

8.16 "Notice of Intent" or "NOI"

Notice of Intent to be covered by this permit.

8.17 "Notice of Termination" or "NOT"

Notice of Termination to cease coverage under this permit.

8.18 "NPDES"
The Department’s federally-approved National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
program authorized by Section 403.0885, F.S.

8.19 "NPDES Notices Center"

The place to which you submit your NOI, NOT, or other information related to the
process of obtaining, implementing, or terminating coverage under the NPDES Program.
The email address is: NPDES-stormwater@dep.state.fl.us
The mailing address is: NPDES Stormwater Notices Center, MS #3585
Florida Department of Environmental Protection
2600 Blair Stone Road
Tallahassee, Florida 32399-2400
The phone number is: (866) 336-6312 (toll-free)

8.20 "Operator"
The person, firm, contractor, public organization, or other legal entity that owns or
operates the construction activity and that has authority to control those activities at the
project necessary to ensure compliance with the terms and conditions of this permit.

8.21 "Qualified Inspector"

A person that:

DEP Document No. 62-621.300(4)(a)

Effective 02/2015 19 | P a g e
 1. Has successfully completed the DEP Stormwater, Erosion, and Sedimentation
Control Inspector Training Program and received a certificate of completion.
2. Has successfully completed an equivalent formal training program;
3. Is qualified by other training or practical experience in the field of stormwater
pollution prevention and erosion and sedimentation control.

8.22 "Responsible Authority"

Per Rule 62-620.305, F.A.C., a responsible authority means:
1. For a corporation, a responsible corporate officer as described in Rule 62-620.305,
F.A.C.
2. For a partnership or sole proprietorship, a general partner or the proprietor,
respectively.
3. For a municipality, state, federal or other public facility, a principal executive officer or
elected official.
8.23 "Small Construction Activity"
Construction activity resulting in the disturbance of equal to or greater than one acre and
less than five acres of total land area. Small construction activity also includes the
disturbance of less than one acre of total land area that is part of a larger common plan
of development or sale that will cumulatively disturb equal to or greater than one acre
and less than five acres.

8.24 "Stabilization"
The use of vegetative and/or non-vegetative cover BMPs to prevent erosion and
sediment loss in areas exposed through the construction process.

8.25 "Storm Event"

A rainfall event that results in a measurable amount of rain. A storm event is defined to
be a separate event when there is at least four hours of no rain between periods of
rainfall.

8.26 "Stormwater"
The flow of water which results from, and which occurs immediately following, a rainfall
event.

8.27 "Stormwater discharge associated with construction activity"

The discharge of stormwater from large or small construction activities, including areas
where soil disturbing activities, construction materials handling or storage, equipment
storage or maintenance are located.

8.28 "Structural Controls"

Curbs, dikes, berms, swales, diversions, retention systems, detention systems or other
structures which capture and treat stormwater to reduce pollutants in stormwater
discharges.

8.29 "SWPPP"
The Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan - A site-specific, written document that,
among other things: (1) identifies potential sources of stormwater pollution at the
construction site; (2) describes stormwater control measures to reduce or eliminate
pollutants in stormwater discharges from the construction site; and (3) identifies
procedures the operator will implement to comply with the terms and conditions of this
general permit.
8.30 "Surface Waters of the State"
Those surface waters, including wetlands that are described in section 403.031, F.S.

8.31 "Temporary Stabilization"

A condition where exposed soils or disturbed areas are provided a temporary vegetative
and/or non-vegetative protective cover to prevent erosion and sediment loss. Temporary
stabilization may include temporary seeding, geotextiles, mulches, and other techniques
to reduce or eliminate erosion until either final stabilization can be achieved or until
further construction activities take place to re-disturb this area.

8.32 "Uncontaminated"
A discharge that does not cause or contribute to an exceedance of applicable water
quality standards.

8.33 "Water Management District" or "WMD"

The Northwest Florida Water Management District, the Suwannee River Water
Management District, the St. Johns River Water Management District, the Southwest
Florida Water Management District or the South Florida Water Management District.

OTHER ACRONYMS

BMP Best Management Practice

C.F.R. Code of Federal Regulations
CGP Construction Generic Permit
ERP Environmental Resource Permit
F.A.C. Florida Administrative Code
FDEP Florida Department of Environmental Protection
F.S. Florida Statutes
MS4 Municipal separate storm sewer system
NOI Notice of Intent
NOT Notice of Termination
NPDES National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
SWPPP Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan

DEP Document No. 62-621.300(4)(a)

Effective 02/2015 21 | P a g e
 PART 9: STANDARD PERMIT
CONDITIONS
What are the other terms
of this permit?

Any permit noncompliance constitutes a violation of Section 403.161, F. S. and is grounds for
enforcement action; for permit coverage termination, or revocation; or for denial of permit
coverage renewal.

For unauthorized releases or spills of treated or untreated wastewater reported that are in
excess of 1,000 gallons per incident, or where information indicates that public health or the
environment will be endangered, the operator must notify the State Warning Point (800-320-
0519 or 850-413-9911) as soon as practical but no later than 24 hours from the time the
permittee becomes aware of the discharge.

All of the general conditions listed in Rule 62-621.250, F.A.C., are adopted herein by reference.

9.1 What are the signatory requirements for the CGP?

9.1.1 All NOI, NOT, SWPPP, reports, certifications, or information either submitted to
the Department or the operator of an MS4, or that this permit requires you to
maintain, must be signed by the responsible authority unless you designate a
duly authorized representative by submitting to the Notices Center, in writing or
by email, an authorization that names either an individual or a position having
overall responsibility for the operation of the your project, such as the project
engineer, project superintendent, a position of equivalent responsibility, or an
individual or position having overall responsibility for implementing the CGP at
the site.
9.1.2 If an authorization is no longer valid because a different individual or position has
overall responsibility for the operation of your project, a new authorization
satisfying the above requirements must be submitted to the Notices Center prior
to or together with any reports, information, or applications to be signed by an
authorized representative.
9.1.3 Inspection reports prepared pursuant to Part 6.4 must be signed by the qualified
inspector that prepared them as well as by a responsible authority.
9.1.4 Any person signing documents under this permit, except contractor or
subcontractor certifications under Part 4.5, must make the following certification:
"I certify under penalty of law that this document and all attachments were
prepared under my direction or supervision in accordance with a system
designed to assure that qualified personnel properly gathered and evaluated the
information submitted. Based on my inquiry of the person or persons who
manage the system, or those persons directly responsible for gathering the
information, the information submitted is, to the best of my knowledge and belief,
true, accurate, and complete. I am aware that there are significant penalties for
submitting false information, including the possibility of fine and imprisonment for
knowing violations."
9.2 What should I do upon a release of hazardous substances exceeding
reporting quantities?
The discharge of hazardous substances or oil in the stormwater discharge(s) from a
facility or activity must be prevented or minimized in accordance with the applicable
stormwater pollution prevention plan for the facility or activity. This permit does not
relieve the operator of the reporting requirements of 40 C.F.R. part 117 and 40 C.F.R.
part 302. Where a release containing a hazardous substance in an amount equal to or in
excess of a reporting quantity established under either 40 C.F.R. 117 or 40 C.F.R. 302,
occurs during a 24 hour period:
9.2.1 The operator must notify the State Warning Point (800-320-0519 or 850-413-
9911) as soon as he or she has knowledge of the discharge.
9.2.2 The operator must submit, within 14 calendar days of knowledge of the release,
a written description of: the release (including the type and estimate of the
amount of material released), the date that such release occurred, the
circumstances leading to the release, and remedial steps to be taken, to the
Florida Department of Environmental Protection, NPDES Stormwater Section,
Mail Station 3585, 2600 Blair Stone Road, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-2400 or
by email at NPDES-stormwater@dep.state.fl.us
9.2.3 The SWPPP required under Part 4 must be modified within seven calendar days
of knowledge of the release to: provide a description of the release, the
circumstances leading to the release, and the date of the release. In addition, the
plan must be reviewed to identify measures to prevent the recurrence of such
releases and to respond to such releases, and the plan must be modified where
appropriate.

DEP Document No. 62-621.300(4)(a)

Effective 02/2015 23 | P a g e