California

California has continued to be identified and renowned as the foreword thinkers of progressive initiatives toward stormwater management in the United States. Since the State Water Resources Control Board’s (SWRCB) inception in the 1950s, the state's nine (9) regional water boards have successfully implemented and sustained one of the most comprehensive and effective stormwater management programs in the country.

Operators and/or dischargers whose projects will be incorporating construction activities (Construction clearing, grading and other disturbances to the ground such as stockpiling, or excavation) that will disturb one (1) or more acres of soil or whose projects disturb less than one (1) acre but are part of a larger common plan of development that, in total, disturbs one (1) or more acres, are required to obtain coverage under the General Permit for Discharges of Storm Water Associated with Construction Activity Construction General Permit Order. The project site operator or “Legally Responsible Person (LRP)” is required to obtain coverage under the Construction General Permit by filing Permit Registration Documents (PRDs) electronically through the State Water Board’s online “SMARTS” program prior to the commencement of any construction activities.