Pennsylvania SWPPP inspection requirements
- Rain trigger
- 0.25″ storm event
- Post-rain deadline
- Within 24 hours (weekends count)
- Routine inspections
- Every 7 days
- Permit
- PAG-02 General NPDES Permit (2024)
- Agency
- Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PA DEP)
How Pennsylvania handles construction stormwater
Construction sites in Pennsylvania disturbing one acre or more need coverage under the PAG-02 General NPDES Permit (2024), administered by Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. PAG-02 was reissued effective December 8, 2024 – December 7, 2029. Weekly inspections plus within 24 hours after the conclusion of each measurable storm (0.25″ over 24 hours, or discharge-causing snowmelt) — no weekend carve-out in the permit. On-site rain gauge or representative weather station required; Chapter 102 E&S rules apply alongside the permit.
Inspector qualifications
Since December 8, 2025, inspections must be by qualified personnel: PA DEP's Qualified Site Inspector training (2-year renewal), an active CPESC or CESSWI certification, or a DEP-approved equivalent.
Official sources
Common questions
What triggers a SWPPP inspection in Pennsylvania?
Under the PAG-02 General NPDES Permit (2024), a storm event of 0.25 inches or more triggers a post-storm inspection, within 24 hours (weekends count). Routine inspections: every 7 days.
Who can perform SWPPP inspections in Pennsylvania?
Since December 8, 2025, inspections must be by qualified personnel: PA DEP's Qualified Site Inspector training (2-year renewal), an active CPESC or CESSWI certification, or a DEP-approved equivalent.
Who administers the construction stormwater program in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PA DEP) administers the NPDES construction stormwater program in Pennsylvania under the PAG-02 General NPDES Permit (2024).
What are the penalties for SWPPP violations in Pennsylvania?
Federal Clean Water Act civil penalties can reach $68,445 per day per violation, and PA DEP 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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