North Dakota SWPPP inspection requirements

The short version
Rain trigger
0.25″ storm event
Post-rain deadline
Within 24 hours
Routine inspections
Every 14 days (monthly for stabilized areas)
Permit
NDR11-0000 Construction General Permit
Agency
North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality (NDDEQ)

How North Dakota handles construction stormwater

Construction sites in North Dakota disturbing one acre or more need coverage under the NDR11-0000 Construction General Permit, administered by North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality. NDR11-0000 (effective April 1, 2025 – March 31, 2030) replaced NDR10. Inspect every 14 days and within 24 hours of rain over 0.25″ in a 24-hour period; on-site rain gauge or nearest NWS gauge required; inspections only during normal working hours.

Inspector qualifications

A qualified person designated by the operator. Check the current state permit for certification requirements.

Official sources

Common questions

What triggers a SWPPP inspection in North Dakota?

Under the NDR11-0000 Construction General Permit, a storm event of 0.25 inches or more triggers a post-storm inspection, within 24 hours (non-work days typically extend to the next work day; check your permit). Routine inspections: every 14 days (monthly for stabilized areas).

Who can perform SWPPP inspections in North Dakota?

A qualified person designated by the operator. Check the current state permit for certification requirements.

Who administers the construction stormwater program in North Dakota?

North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality (NDDEQ) administers the NPDES construction stormwater program in North Dakota under the NDR11-0000 Construction General Permit.

What are the penalties for SWPPP violations in North Dakota?

Federal Clean Water Act civil penalties can reach $68,445 per day per violation, and NDDEQ 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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