SWPPP Checklist for Texas Construction Sites

Ensure your Texas construction project complies with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) stormwater regulations by using this simple SWPPP (Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan) checklist. Follow these steps to develop, implement, and maintain your SWPPP, avoiding fines and protecting Texas’ waterways.

Before Construction Begins

Determine Applicability: Confirm if your project requires an SWPPP. Does it disturb ≥1 acre of land, or is it part of a larger common plan of development disturbing ≥1 acre? Check for additional requirements if near the Edwards Aquifer recharge zone.

Conduct a Site Assessment: Map your site, identifying drainage patterns, slopes, nearby water bodies (e.g., creeks, rivers), and potential pollutant sources like soil, fuel, or construction materials.

Develop Your SWPPP: Create a site-specific SWPPP that includes:

• A site map with drainage areas and BMP locations.
• Identification of pollutants (e.g., sediment, chemicals).
• Best Management Practices (BMPs) like silt fences, sediment basins, and stabilized entrances.
• Inspection and maintenance schedules.

Submit a Notice of Intent (NOI): For projects disturbing ≥5 acres, file an NOI with TCEQ at least 7 days before construction. For 1-5 acres, post a Construction Site Notice.

Important: Ensure all personnel understand the SWPPP, their roles, and proper BMP implementation.

During Construction

• Install BMPs: Set up erosion and sediment controls (e.g., silt fences, mulch, sediment traps) and good housekeeping measures (e.g., spill kits, trash management) as outlined in your SWPPP.
• Inspect Regularly: Conduct inspections at least every 7 days and within 24 hours of a rain event ≥0.5 inches. Check BMPs for damage or failure (e.g., torn silt fences, clogged sediment basins).
• Maintain BMPs: Repair or replace BMPs as needed. For example, clean out sediment basins when they’re 50% full, and fix eroded areas promptly.
• Document Everything: Keep detailed records of inspections, maintenance, rainfall events, and any corrective actions. Ensure records are accessible for TCEQ audits.
• Monitor Discharges: If required by your permit, sample stormwater discharges and compare them to TCEQ benchmarks for pollutants like turbidity.

After Construction

• Stabilize the Site: Ensure all disturbed areas are stabilized with vegetation, mulch, or other coverings to prevent erosion (e.g., 70% vegetative cover is often required).
• Remove Temporary BMPs: Once the site is stabilized, remove temporary controls like silt fences, ensuring proper disposal.
• File a Notice of Termination (NOT): Submit an NOT to TCEQ to end permit coverage once construction is complete and the site is fully stabilized.

Important: Retain Records: Keep SWPPP records, including inspections and monitoring data, for at least 3 years after project completion, as required by TCEQ.

Tips for Texas Sites

Check Local Requirements: Some Texas municipalities (e.g., Austin, San Antonio) have stricter stormwater rules, especially near sensitive areas like the Edwards Aquifer.

Prepare for Heavy Rain: Have a plan for heavy rains or hurricanes, especially in coastal areas like Houston.