Construction Stormwater

Why is the control of Construction Site Runoff Necessary?

Polluted stormwater runoff from construction sites is often discharged into local rivers and streams. Of the pollutants listed in Table 1, sediment is usually the main pollutant of concern. Sources of sedimentation include agriculture, urban runoff, construction, and forestry. Sediment runoff rates from construction sites, however are typically 10 to 20 times greater that those of agricultural lands, and 1,000 to 2,000 times greater than those of forest lands. During a short period of time, construction sites can contribute more sediment to streams than can be deposited naturally during several decades. The resulting siltation, and the contribution of other pollutants from construction sites can cause physical, chemical, and biological harm to our nation's waters. For example, excess sediment can quickly fill inlets, rivers and lakes, requiring dredging and destroying aquatic habitats.

Pollutants Commonly Discharged From Construction Sites

• Sediment
• Solid and sanitary wastes
• Phosphorous (fertilizer)
• Nitrogen (fertilizer)
• Pesticides
• Oil and Grease
• Concrete truck washout
• Construction chemicals
• Construction debris

Permitting in Georgetown County

The first step is determining which area your project lies in. The map below shows our Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) area. If you fall within this location please click on the "Inside the MS4" link below" and follow the flowchart. If the project is not inside the area shown on the map click on "Outside the MS4" link below.

MS4 Area Map

Urbanized Area Map

Inside the MS4 Area Flowchart

Outside the MS4 Area Flowchart

Permitting Documents

Please follow the Submittal Checklist below in order to help you with the application process.

Submittal Checklist

Application Form (Blank)

Application Form (Complete and Submit Online!)

As-Built Certification Form

Fee Schedule

Design Manual

Ordinance Please see regarding any requests for Variances or Appeals.

Maintenance Agreement

As-Built Certification Form

Close Out Application

Stormwater Polution Prevention Plan

To help you develop the narrative section of your construction site SWPPP, the Georgetown County Stormwater Division has created electronic SWPPP templates. These templates are designed to help guide you through the SWPPP development process and help ensure that your SWPPP addresses all the necessary elements stated in your construction general permit.

These templates cover the SWPPP elements that the State of South Carolina Construction General Permit requires, however the template serves as guidance only. You must customize this template to reflect the conditions at your project site. The site-specific SWPPP must be combined with proper and timely installation of the BMPs, thorough and frequent inspections, maintenance, and documentation. For guidance on appropriate BMPs, refer to the South Carolina DHEC Stormwater Management BMP Handbook. This document can be obtained by clicking the below link:

BMP Handbook

You can also use these templates with EPA's guidance on Developing Your Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan. This document can be obtained at: EPA SWPPP Guide

SWPPP Template (sites 10 acres or more)

SWPPP Template (sites less than 10 acres)

Inspections

Contractors Inspection Form

Sediment and Erosion Control Handout

Sediment and Erosion Control Handout -Spanish