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Construction sites can be significant sources of pollution. Harmful materials from construction sites such as concrete, mortars, paint chips, and other debris can wash into storm drains. As a result, these pollutants reach rivers and streams, local lakes, and the ocean, triggering serious water quality concerns.

These best management practices (BMPs) designed to prevent the discharge of sediment-laden runoff from a site. These practices can also be used to divert runoff away from contaminated areas or to treat stormwater runoff before discharging to sewer/storm drain.

Once construction activities begin, sites are required to install all “minimum” stormwater BMPs and control measures (CMs) specified on the plans. All BMPs and CMs routinely must be inspected, maintained/cleaned, and repaired/replaced. Adherence to BMPs and CMs is necessary to protect water quality flowing to bodies of water.

All sites should have the following BMPs in place: 

• Scheduling & Planning
• Inspection & Maintenance
• Water Conservation
• Sanitary Waste
• Spill Prevention & Control
• Illicit Connection & Discharge
• Dewatering Options
• Street Cleaning