Storm water discharges are generated by runoff from land and impervious areas such as paved streets, parking lots, and building rooftops during rainfall and snow events. Storm water often contains pollutants in quantities that could adversely affect water quality. Most storm water discharges are considered point sources and require coverage by a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit. The primary method to control storm water discharges is through the use of best management practices (BMPs).
Ohio NPDES Storm Water Program Fact Sheet
For information about storm water management at home, visit the Public Interest Center's website.
Small MS4 General Permit Renewal Update
Ohio EPA’s Small MS4 General Permit expired on September 10, 2019. Ohio EPA has public noticed a draft general permit renewal for public comment. Please keep in mind that per Part V.B of the Small MS4 general permit “An expired general permit continues in force and effect until a new general permit is issued.” So current MS4 permittees’ MS4 general permit coverage stays active beyond September 10, 2019.
Please do not submit a NOI to renew Small MS4 general permit coverage at this time. Permittees must wait until the general permit renewal is issued final before coverage can be renewed. Once the general permit is issued final, Ohio EPA will provide all MS4 permittees instructions on how to renew coverage.
Draft General Permit - OHQ000004
Public Notice Date: July 15, 2020
Comments Due Date: September 8, 2020
The draft renewal permit is available for comment. To provide comments, please e-mail epa.dswcomments@epa.ohio.gov by September 8, 2020, with the draft general permit number OHQ000004 in the subject line.
On August 5, 2020, Ohio EPA held a virtual information session to provide an overview of the Draft Small MS4 General Permit renewal. The following is information from the session: