Stormwater Compliance (or stormwater management) is the process of ensuring that stormwater runoff that can be a result of a weather event (snow, rain, etc.), industrial use, or construction activities, does not negatively impact surrounding land or impervious surfaces. When stormwater does not absorb into the ground it can pick up garbage, chemicals, and dirt/sediment that can contaminate rivers, streams, lakes, and coastal waters.
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit program under the Clean Water Act, requires industrial, construction and public clients to develop plans and procedures to manage the quality and quantity of stormwater discharged from a site or municipal storm system.
Most states are authorized to implement the stormwater NPDES permitting program. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) remains the permitting authority in a few states, territories, and on most land in Indian Country.
