Oregon’s stormwater permits fall under the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) program, managed by the Oregon DEQ (or delegated local agencies).

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From the Oregon DEQ:

"Stormwater runoff from land and impervious areas such as paved streets, parking lots, and building rooftops during rainfall and snow events often contain pollutants that could adversely affect water quality. National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permits are required for stormwater discharges to surface waters from construction and industrial activities and municipalities if stormwater from rain or snow melt leaves your site through a "point source" and reaches surface waters either directly or through storm drainage. A point source is a natural or human-made conveyance of water through such things as pipes, culverts, ditches, catch basins, or any other type of channel.”

‍There are three primary categories of stormwater permits in Oregon:

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‍Industrial 1200-Z Stormwater Discharge General Permit

Who?: Industrial Facility Operators
Covers: Industrial sites with exposed industrial activities discharging to surface waters

‍Construction 1200-C and 1200-CN Stormwater Discharge General Permit

Who?: Developers, Contractors
Covers: Construction disturbing ≥ 1 acre (or smaller if part of larger plan)

‍Municipal MS4 Permit

Who?: Cities, Counties, Public Agencies
Covers: Municipal separate storm sewer systems in Phase I or Phase II areas

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For help navigating applicable permits, reach out to our team.