Minnesota SWPPP inspection requirements
- Rain trigger
- 0.5″ storm event
- Post-rain deadline
- Within 24 hours
- Routine inspections
- Every 7 days
- Permit
- Construction Stormwater General Permit
- Agency
- Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA)
How Minnesota handles construction stormwater
Construction sites in Minnesota disturbing one acre or more need coverage under the Construction Stormwater General Permit, administered by Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. Inspect once every 7 days and within 24 hours after a rainfall greater than 0.5″ in 24 hours. Records must be kept with the SWPPP on site.
Inspector qualifications
Trained personnel (University of Minnesota erosion control certification is the accepted standard).
Official sources
Common questions
What triggers a SWPPP inspection in Minnesota?
Under the Construction Stormwater General Permit, a storm event of 0.5 inches or more triggers a post-storm inspection, generally due within 24 hours (non-work days typically extend to the next work day; check your permit). Routine inspections run every 7 days.
Who can perform SWPPP inspections in Minnesota?
Trained personnel (University of Minnesota erosion control certification is the accepted standard).
Who administers the construction stormwater program in Minnesota?
Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) administers the NPDES construction stormwater program in Minnesota under the Construction Stormwater General Permit.
What are the penalties for SWPPP violations in Minnesota?
Federal Clean Water Act civil penalties can reach $68,445 per day per violation, and MPCA can issue administrative orders and state penalties on top. Missing rain-triggered inspections is among the most commonly cited violations in stormwater audits.
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