Chapter 9 Wastewater and Stormwater 

CHAPTER 9 

Wastewater and Stormwater

This chapter discusses:

 Two types of potentially polluted discharges that can be found at government 

fuel facilities—stormwater and industrial wastewater

 Federal National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) regulations for 

stormwater and industrial wastewater

 Appropriate management practices for controlling industrial wastewater

9.1 Managing Wastewater

Most wastewater at fuel facilities comes from tank bottoms and tank-cleaning

operations. Tank-bottom wastewater comes from fuel storage tanks and may 

be generated when:

 Fuel is contaminated with water.

 Water vapor condenses on the inside walls of a storage tank.

 Precipitation leaks into a tank from poorly fitted floating-roof seals and

poorly maintained water drain lines.

Tank-cleaning wastewater comes from the periodic cleaning of tanks and 

associated piping.

9.1.1 Regulatory Background—NPDES Program

The Clean Water Act (CWA) is the federal statute that addresses water pollution

in the U.S. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and state a

agencies administer numerous programs under the CWA, includingNPDES permittin. The NPDES program (Section 402) was established to contro

from industrial sources in an effort to restore and maintain the nation’s water 

quality. Developed under the authority of the 1987 amendments to the CWA

the PDES program includes regulations governing two types of wastew

discharges, indirect and direct discharges.

 Indirect Discharges to publicly owned treatment works (POTW) or 

wastewater-processing facilities owned by a state or municipality, usually 

through sewer systems

 Direct Discharges directly into surface water (streams, rivers, lakes) typically 

through a pipe or ditch

Indirect sources discharge wastewater to a POTW, which in turn discharges in

the receiving water body. Most POTW regulate indirect discharges through se

use ordinances that give the municipality the power to issue and enforce industrial discharge permits. To meet discharge limits, the industrial facility must often

provide some treatment of wastewater prior to discharge to the sewer system. 

Industrial and commercial indirect discharges are addressed by the National

Pretreatment Progra

 You need an NPDES permit if 

you discharge wastewater or 

stormwater from a point source 

into navigable waters (40 CFR 

122 Subpart A).

 NPDES permits are usually good 

for 5 years and limit pollutants 

(such as oil and grease), total 

suspended solids, and pH (40 CFR 

122.46 and 122.1(b)).

 The Energy Independence and 

Security Act of 2007 (EISA) 

(Section 438) established strict 

stormwater runoff requirements 

for federal development and 

redevelopment projects. 

This includes using green 

infrastructure and low-impact 

development practices.

 Construction projects that disturb 

1 acre or more of land must 

obtain stormwater permits. This 

is typically done by applying for 

coverage under a construction 

general permit (40 CFR 122.26(b) 

(14) and (15)).

 Many local agencies and 

municipalities have stormwater 

regulations that may impose 

additional requirements.

The Law Says
9-2 Chapter 9 Wastewater and Stormwa

TheNPDES program requires a permit for any municipal or industrial (non-municipal) direct point source discharging directly into surface waters of th

A point source is a known, defined source of a release of water, such as a pipe,

ditch, channel, conduit, or well. Most of the regulations pertaining to

permits are presented in Title 40 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Parts 122−12

(40 CFR 122−124)

9.1.2 NPDES Discharge Permits

NPDES discharge permits contain several key elem

 Effluent limitations

 Monitoring and reporting requirement

 Schedules of complianc

The primary purpose of anNPDES permit is to set either numeric or narr

effluent limitations for industrial or domestic wastewater discharges and stormwater from industrial activities and construction activities. AnNPDES perm

issued by PA or an NPDES-authorized state or local water quality control

for a maximum of 5 years, but shorter time periods are common. The permit

limits pollutants (such as oil and grease), total suspended solids (TSS), and 

extremes of pH. The permitting authority may also develop technology-based or

water quality-based effluent limits.

When the limits are set for your facility’s PDES permit, you must meet those limits or face penalties. You may have to monitor for compliance by taking peri

samples and conducting visual inspections. You also may have to submit test 

results that show compliance. Refer to Chapter 12, Routine Reporting for more

information on wastewater monitoring and agency reporting requirements.

When a new facility is constructed or a new discharge is generated at an existing 

facility, the PDES permit may include a schedule to allow a reasonable opportunity to meet the specified require

9.1.2.1 Types of NPDES Permits

The two basic types ofNPDES permits issued are individual and general pe

Individual Permits

Individual permits are issued to a single permittee for discharges from outfalls 

identified at the facility. The permit is specifically tailored to an individual facility,

and the permitting authority develops the permit based on information provided in the facility’s permit application. In addition to wastewater and industrial 

process water discharges, individual permits can cover stormwater discharged to 

a receiving stream.  permit application for individual permits is required to be

submitted to the permitting agency at least 180 days before the existing permit 

expires or prior to the date a new discharge will begin.

A watershed-based permit may be considered instead of an individual permit.

Rather than addressing individual pollutants on a discharge-by-discharge basis,

a watershed-based permit encompasses all pollution sources within a hydrologically defined drainage basin or designated watershed. The ultimate goal of this

Most permit renewal applications 

are to be submitted to the agency 

at least 180 days before the existing 

permit expires.

Don’t Forget...
Chapter 9 Wastewater and Stormwater 

effort is to work with multiple stakeholders and dischargers to develop and issue 

NPDES permits that better protect an entire water

General Permits

General permits cover multiple facilities within a specific category. They’re more

cost-effective for permitting agencies because of the large number of facilities 

that can be covered by a single permit. If you’re in certain industries or have 

a certain type of wastewater discharge and meet the eligibility requirements 

outlined in the permit, you may obtain general permit coverage if your state 

has PDES authority and has a program for issuing general permits. To appl

coverage under a general permit, a discharger must submit a Notice of Intent

(NOI) and meet the requirements of the permi

9.1.3 Managing Tank-bottom and Tank-cleaning Wastewaters

Prior to disposal or discharge of tank-bottom or tank-cleaning wastewater, you’re

required to document that the wastewater is not a hazardous waste. Under EPA

hazardous waste program, created by the Resource Conservation and Recover

Act (RCRA), a petroleum product is not classified as a hazardous waste until it

discarded. However, a wastewater or sludge (which are wastes by definition) may

be considered RCRA hazardous if it tests “toxic” under RCRA regula

Components in petroleum products, such as benzene and lead, are identified in 

40 CFR 261 as RCRA hazardous wastes and can cause petroleum-contamina

waters to test positive for RCRA toxicity characteristics. Also, the fuel system ic

inhibitor (FSII) additive accumulates in tank-bottom waters, and can produce a

RCRA hazardous waste. Although it is used in small concentrations to rem

water droplets in jet turbine fuels JP−4, JP−5, and JP−8, FSII can accumulate by

much as 30% in volume at the bottom of a tank. FSII’s high specific gravity causes

it to move downward in the tank while gathering water with small amounts of 

benzene and other water-soluble parts of fuel.

To see if you have a hazardous waste that requires special handling, you must

have samples of your tank-bottom and tank-cleaning wastewaters tested using 

the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP). This laboratory test

analyzes wastes for volatile organic compounds (VOCs), semivolatile organic compounds (SVOCs), and metals according to 40 CFR 261 (see Chapter 7, Hazard

and Recycled Waste).

9.1.3.1 Disposal Methods

How you manage your wastewater is site-specific and depends on

 How much wastewater you hav

 On-site treatment capabilit

 The availability and treatment capabilities of local POTW and commerc

wastewater treatment plants

 Whether your waste is RCRA non-hazardous or hazard

 What the local, state, and federal regulations allow 
9-4 Chapter 9 Wastewater and Stormwa

In general, these are good management methods:

 Reduce volume of wastewater – Reduce the volume of wastewater by

preventing water from getting into your tanks. To do this, use storage tank

geodesic domes, tight floating-roof seals, or roof water drainage lines that 

keep your tanks clean and leakproof. Also, use equipment and procedures

that minimize the volume of water needed to clean tanks.

 Reduce volume of contaminants – Reduce the volume of contaminants in your

wastewater by using pretreatment processes on-site, such as distillation or 

gravity-feed oil/water separators.

It is also a good practice to document your procedures for cleanout, waste 

testing, management, and disposal in your site plans, such as an operation and 

maintenance (O&M) plan or a waste management pla

9.1.3.2 Oil/Water Separators

Oil/water separators can be an economical way to pretreat wastewater if properly maintained. These are flow-through tanks or structures, as illustrated in Exhibi

9−1, that use gravity and provide sufficient hydraulic retention time to allow oil 

to rise to the surface. The oil layer separates from the water and then can be

removed by skimmers,pumps, or other methods. The wastewater outlet is

located below the oil level so that water leaving the separator is free of the oil 

that accumulates at the top of the unit. The inlet is often fitted with diffusion

baffles to reduce turbulent flow that might prevent effective separation of the oil 

and might resuspend settled pollutants. Oil/water separators can be installed

aboveground or underground. Buried oil/water separators may meet the definition of an underground storage tank. Refer to Chapter 3, Underground Storage

Tanks and check your state and local agency regulations.

Regular maintenance is essential for effective operation. For instance, th

accumulated oil or fuel must be removed and reprocessed, recycled, or disposed 

of on a regular schedule. In addition, if sludge builds up in the bottom of the 

separator, it becomes less effective because solids have less time to settle.  lack

of regular sludge cleanouts can lead to the resuspension of collected sediments. 

If the removed oil, tank-bottom sludge, or tank-cleaning wastewater is hazardous, you may have to send it to a RCRA-permitted hazardous waste treatmen

storage, and disposal facility (TSDRF). If you choose to treat it on-site, you 

have to follow RCRA’s complex TSDRF regulations. Refer to Chapter 7, Ha

and Recycled Waste for more information.

The wastewater in an oil/water separator is usually discharged to a municipal

sewer line and local POTW. If sanitary sewer lines are unavailable, you may ne

to store this wastewater and transport it by truck to a treatment facility. Check 

with state and local authorities and local wastewater treatment plants to see 

what they allow. When operating an oil/water separator, excess water flow can 

force wastewater through it too fast to allow separation, resulting in oil and other 

contaminants passing to the sewer. Therefore, oil/water separators should not be

used to treat stormwater runoff unless they’re designed for this purpose.

For best operation, oil/water separators can be fitted with sensing units that 

indicate when the compartments need to be cleaned. Only oily wastewater

Testing of tank-cleaning wastewaters and tank-bottom waste is 

necessary to determine its proper 

management and disposal. Additives like icing inhibitors or components in petroleum like benzene 

and metals can make these materials a hazardous waste.

Don’t Forget...

Oil/water separators are regulated 

under the Spill Prevention, Control 

and Countermeasure (SPCC) 

regulations and may be regulated 

by the underground storage tank 

(UST) regulations depending on 

your state’s requirements.

Did You Know?
Chapter 9 Wastewater and Stormwater 

should be sent to an oil/water separator. Antifreeze, degreasers, and detergents

will emulsify oil into small droplets so the oil doesn’t float to the surface.

EXHIBIT 9−1

Typical Oil/Water Separator

9.1.3.3 Illegal Practices

Never discharge tank-bottom, tank-cleaning, or other process water to a receiving stream, storm sewer, or drainage ditch without a properly issued

permit that allows discharge of this type of wastewater. Unpermitted discharges 

that eventually make their way into stormwater discharges threaten human 

health and the environment. For example, if FSII-contaminated tank-bottom

waters are released into waterways, the rapid biodegradation by microorganisms can kill fish by severely depleting oxygen in the waterway. If you obtained 

an PDES permit to discharge tank-bottom and/or tank-cleaning wastewa

strictly follow regulatory limits for the concentration of fuel in the wastewater 

discharge. Finally, never dilute a hazardous waste to make it non-hazardous. This

is illegal and punishable. See 40 CFR 268.3 for more informatio

9.2 Managing Stormwater

Stormwater is the precipitation runoff from roofs, roads, containment dikes 

around aboveground storage tanks (ASTs), and other exposed areas. Polluta

may dissolve, become suspended, and/or float on the surface of the runoff. 

The polluted runoff may be discharged into receiving waters, such as lakes or

streams. Stormwater discharges from fuel facilities may include these pollutants

 Petroleum hydrocarbon

 Sediments and solid

 Fertilizers and pesticides

 FSII and other dissolved fuel additive
9-6 Chapter 9 Wastewater and Stormwa

9.2.1 Regulatory Background Stormwater Permits

On November 16, 1990 EPA issued final rules establishingthe NPD

application requirements for stormwater discharges associated with industrial 

activities. Industrial activity is defined in 40 CFR 122.26(b)(14). It includes petroleum bulk stations and terminals with North American Industry Classificati

System (NAICS) Code 42271 (equivalent to the Standard Industrial Classifica

[SIC] Code 5171). Industrial facilities required to apply for a stormwater permit

may either:

 Submit an individual permit application, o

 Seek coverage under a general permit

Note that although the stormwater program is mainly regulated by the

program described below, other federal, state, and/or local regulations may 

have stormwater management requirements. For example federal SPCC rule

(see Chapter 4, Aboveground Storage Tanks and Containers) say that stormwater 

cannot be drained from diked areas around ASTs until the stormwater has be

inspected to make sure that no oil or pollutants are present and its discharge 

from the containment area is documented (40 CFR 112.8(c)(3))

Most states are authorized to manage the stormwaterNPDES permitting program. Therefore, the vast majority of facilities will need to btain N

coverage through their state agency (see Appendix E for state agency contact 

information).

9.2.1.1 Individual Permits

For stormwater discharges, most states prefer issuing general permits, as this allows them to permit many facilities cost effectively and with quicker turnaround 

times. However, authorizedNPDES state agencie and EPA (for unau

states, districts, and territories) still require individual permits for facilities that 

do not meet the criteria for general permits as set forth in the PDES regulations. For examle, EPA or the authorized state permitting agency may

that a general permit does not adequately protect a facility because of the past 

compliance history of the facility, its location near an ecologically sensitive area, 

or because an authorized state agency has more stringent requirements than 

those specified in the A NPDES regu

Individual permits require a facility to meet detailed application requirements 

that are specific to your facility and industrial activity. The application process is

usually long and requires the collection of representative stormwater samples 

and monthly, quarterly, and/or annual sampling and reporting from each of your 

facility’s outfalls.

9.2.1.2 Multi-Sector General Permits

For facilities located in areas where PA is the permitting authority, coverage 

available under the PA Multi-Sector General Permit (MSGP) for stormwat

discharges (see Exhibit 9−2). The MSGP has specific requirements for m

industrial activities, including fuel facilities. Most state agencies also offer general

permits, similar to the MSGP, for stormwater management from certain activiti

and industrial categories.
Chapter 9 Wastewater and Stormwater 

The MSGP for industrial activities includes general requirements for most industrial categories. In addition to the general requirements, including developm

and implementation of Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans (SWPPPs) and effluent limitations, there are tailored requirements for each industrial activit

The MSGP regulations identify stormwater discharge requirements for differ

categories defined as “sectors” based on a facility’s industrial activity. Two of

these sectors (SectorP − Land Transportation and Secor S − Air Transpor

Facilities) may apply to DLA Energy and are described in the following secti

9.2.2 NPDES Stormwater Permits at Fuel Facilities

Stormwater discharges from land and air transportation activities are often

eligible for coverage under the A NPDES MSGP (or state equivalent),

fuel terminals with vehicle maintenance shops, equipment-cleaning operations, 

and/or airport deicing operations. Further, only the parts of these facilities that 

engage in these activities are required to authorize their stormwater discharges, 

such as the areas that are involved in vehicle maintenance, fueling stations, 

equipment cleaning, and/or deicing (see 40 CFR 122.26 (b)(14)(viii)). However

authorized states may have requirements that are stricter than the 

MSGP requirements, so always check with the appropriate environmental agen

for your site’s specific requirements.

Land transportation facilities, including petroleum bulk stations and terminals 

(SIC 5171) and the U.S. Postal Service (SIC 4311) are covered under Sctor P 

MSGP. Air transportation facilities with maintenance shops, equipment clean

operations, and aircraft or runway deicing and anti-icing operations are covered 

under SectorS of the MSGP. This includes facilities generally classified by SIC

4512−4581, such as airports, air terminals, airline carriers, and fueling companies.

If your facility is included under these two categories, you must obtain an M

or the equivalent state general industrial stormwater permit to authorize stormwater discharges from areas that perform the above-stated industrial activities. 

To obtain coverage, the facility in general must

 Prepare and implement a 

 Establish a pollution prevention team who is responsible for stormwater

pollution prevention at the facility

 Implement best management practices (BMPs) and good housekeeping 

measures

 Evaluate stormwater outfalls for the presence of non-stormwater discharge

 Perform quarterly inspections (monthly during deicing season for airport

facilities)

 Conduct quarterly visual monitoring of stormwater at each outfall associated 

with an industrial activity

 Perform yearly training on topics, such as used oil and solvent management,

fueling procedure, general good housekeeping practices, proper painting 

procedures, and used battery management

 Perform yearly monitoring and sampling if discharging a pollutant of

concern to an impaired water body for which that body is impaired
9-8 Chapter 9 Wastewater and Stormwa

 Submit an annual report and monitoring records to theEPA or state age

(see Chapter 12, Routine Reporting for more information)

In addition, airport facilities that use more than 100,000 gallons per year of 

glycol-based deicing agents or more than 100 tons per year of urea are required 

to collect and analyze samples of stormwater runoff. Airport facilities must

implement controls to collect or contain contaminated melt water from collection areas used for disposal of contaminated snow. Facilities that generate 

Determine Multi-Sector General Permit Eligibility

 What is the facility’s Standard Industrial Classification Code? Is the facility eligible 

for general permit coverage?

 Determine if endangered species and critical habitat are in the stormwater discharge areas.

 Determine if the facility is subject to a written historic preservation agreement.

 Determine if the facility meets the exclusion for “no exposure.”

 Determine if the receiving water is recognized by EPA as an “impaired waterbody” or if it has an approved Total Maximum Daily Load, and if so, demonstrate 

that the facility has no exposure of stormwater to the pollutant for which the 

waterbody is impaired.

 If eligible for coverage, submit Notice of Intent (NOI) to EPA or delegated state 

agency. 

Inspect the Facility

 What industrial activities are performed?

 Does the facility conduct activities such as vehicle maintenance, equipment 

cleaning operations, deicing of aircraft, and/or outdoor material handling?

 Where does stormwater flow? Identify outfalls and receiving water.

Implement SWPPP and Monitor and Keep Records

 If not eligible for MSGP coverage, submit application for an individual NPDES 

stormwater permit.

 Conduct quarterly visual examinations and monitoring per permit.

 Prepare annual report.

 Maintain all records for a minimum of 3 years. 

Prepare Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan

 See Exhibit 9-3 for guidance. For new permit applications, the SWPPP must be 

prepared and implemented prior to submitting an NOI.

EXHIBIT 9−2

NPDES Stormwater Permitting Process
Chapter 9 Wastewater and Stormwater 

wastewaters associated with airfield pavement deicing may have to meet wastewater effluent limitations in accordance with 40 CFR 449

If your facility is subject to both SectorP and Sector S, you’ll need to addr

the SWPPP and stormwater monitoring requirements for both sectors. Refe

your current permit and state requirements to identify your compliance tasks 

and due dates.

9.2.3 Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan

The SWPPP is an information gathering tool for dischargers to document, a

other things, how control measures will be selected, designed, installed, and 

implemented to comply with the individual or general permit effluent limitations 

and requirements. Exhibit 9−3 provides an overview of the development of a 

site-specific SWPPP. Note that some states may refer to the SWPPP as a

and Sediment Control Plan or a Best Management Practices 

To develop a SWPPP, you 

 Identify a stormwater pollution prevention team

 Assess potential stormwater pollution source

 Determine drainage basins and outfalls associated with the permitted

industrial activity stormwater discharge

 Determine the water body where the discharge ultimately is released and

whether the water body has an PA approved Total Maximum Daily Lo

(TMDL) or is “impaired”

 Select and use BMPs, including schedules of activities, prohibitions 

practice, maintenance procedures, and other BMPs that prevent or reduc

runoff pollution from your site

 Evaluate non-stormwater discharge

 Prepare detailed site maps and layout

 Put the plan into effec

 Periodically evaluate and inspect the site to see if BMPs are being u

For help in preparing the plan, refer to Chapter 1, Environmental and Emergency 

Response Planning, the information below, and the documents referenced later 

in this chapter under Section 9.5, For More Information.

9.2.3.1 Pollution Prevention Team

The pollution prevention team is responsible for managing and revising the

SWPPP. Their duties may entail assessing potential stormwater sources, upda

the plan, collecting stormwater samples for analysis, conducting training, enforcing BMPs, inspecting outfalls, and recordkeeping. This team may consist of un

environmental coordinators, sample collectors, laboratory representatives, and 

other installation representatives if the DLA Energy facility is co-located at a bas

Appendix 9−1 provides some general guidelines that should be used for periodic 

stormwater monitoring requirements and an Inspection Record Form that can be

used for stormwater sampling purposes.
9-10 Chapter 9 Wastewater and Stormwa

Assess

 Develop a site map and facility layout map.

 Inventory and describe exposed materials and material handling activities.

 List significant spills and leaks.

 Evaluate non-stormwater discharges.

 Evaluate existing monitoring data.

 Summarize pollutant sources, risks, and pollutants of concern from the facility.

 Determine if discharge is to an EPA “impaired” or approved TMDL waterbody.

Plan and Organize

 Form pollution prevention team.

 Review NPDES permit requirements for SWPPP and other plans.

Identify BMPs

 Identify baseline BMPs.

 Select activity- and site-specific BMPs.

Implement

 Implement BMPs.

 Train employees.

General Requirements

 Develop schedule.

 Get required signatures.

 Follow plan location and public 

access requirements.

 Modify plan.

Special Requirements

 Plan for discharge through MS4.

 Plan for EPCRA, Section 313 

facilities.

 Plan for salt storage piles.

Evaluate and Monitor

 Conduct quarterly visual examination.

 Conduct annual site inspection and BMP evaluation.

 Conduct recordkeeping and reporting.

 Review and revise plan.

EXHIBIT 9−3

Industrial Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan Development and Implementation

BMP = Best Management Pra

MS4 = Municipal Separate Storm Sewe

EPCRA = Emergency Planning and Community Right to Know A
Chapter 9 Wastewater and Stormwater 9

9.2.3.2 Stormwater Discharges

Development and implementation of BMPs should be used to reduce potenti

stormwater pollution and minimize the amount of pollutants discharged into 

stormwater. Non-structural BMPs are practices that are inexpensive, relative

simple, and applicable to a wide variety of facilities and activities. Appropriate

BMPs for fuel facilities includ

 Good housekeeping − Maintain a clean and orderly work environment to

reduce the possibility of accidental spills caused by mishandling equipment 

and materials.

 Preventive maintenance − Regularly inspect and maintain stormwater

management devices, such as catch basins and oil/water separators. Inspect, 

test, and maintain equipment and systems to avoid conditions that could 

cause breakdowns or failures and result in pollutant discharges to surface 

waters.

 Visual inspection − Perform routine visual inspections of your facility to

uncover conditions that could cause breakdowns or failures. Keep records of 

your inspections.

 Spill prevention and response − Identify where spills can occur and possible 

drainage points. Plan procedures for cleaning up spills, and identify spill

cleanup equipment.

 Sediment and erosion control − Start a sweeping program to remove sediment

and dirt from paved areas and vehicle parking areas.

 Management of runoff − Divert, infiltrate, or reuse stormwater runoff.

Techniques include vegetative swales (depressions of land), reuse of

collected stormwater (for example, as an irrigation source), inlet controls (for 

example, oil/water separators), and infiltration devices.

 Employee training − Use training programs to educate personnel about 

techniques that reduce discharges of pollutants to surface waters. Include 

such training topics as spill prevention and response, good housekeeping, 

and material management practices.

 Recordkeeping and reporting − Document spills or other discharges, quality of

stormwater discharges, and inspection and maintenance activities.

9.2.3.3 Non-stormwater Discharges

Certain non-stormwater discharges (NSWDs) may be authorized by the stormwater permits as long as the non-stormwater component of the discharge do

not contain pollutants that would contaminate the stormwater discharges from 

the site or have a reasonable potential to cause or contribute to a water quality 

violation. The following are examples of NSWDs that are often authorized 

discharge by the permit:

 Discharges from firefighting activitie

 Fire hydrant flushing

 Potable water sources, including water line flushin

 Irrigation drainage
9-12 Chapter 9 Wastewater and Stormwa

 Lawn watering

 Uncontaminated air conditioning or compressor condensate

 Spring

 Uncontaminated groundwater, foundation, or footing drain flows

 Exterior building washdown water that does not contain detergents or other

chemicals used in conjunction with the cleaning activities

As part of the annual report, the facility operator must prepare an annual Dr

Weather Discharge certification that certifies all permitted outfalls have been

investigated during a period of dry weather and no discharges were observed. If 

a discharge is observed, the investigator must determine the source and whether 

the discharge is an authorized NSWD. The certification should detail the following informat

 Potential significant sources of non-stormwater at the sit

 Description of results of any test and/or evaluation for the presence of

NS

 Evaluation criteria or testing metho

 Date of testing and/or evaluatio

 On-site drainage points directly observed during the tes

9.2.3.4 Detailed Site Maps

You’ll also need to prepare a detailed site map (a topographic map may be a 

useful base map) as part of the SWPPP. The components of the site map sh

include:

 Arrows showing the direction of stormwater flow at the facilit

 Waterways, outfalls, ponds, ditches, wetlands, and an outline of the drainage 

areas for each permitted outfall

 Surrounding off-site waterbodies and which water body(ies) ultimately

receive the discharge and whether the segment of that water body(ies) is 

defined by PA as “impaired” or has an approve

 If applicable, show if discharge is to a municipal separate storm sewer system 

(MS4), the name of the MS4, and the waterbody where the MS4 ultim

discharges

 Location of all authorized N

 Locations of all stormwater controls, such as detention ponds, secondary 

containment structures, and other permanent devices that reduce the 

amount of pollutants that can enter the waterways from the stormwater

 Earthen berms and steep slopes identifying them as places where erosion

could occur

 Buildings, paved areas, fueling stations, and vehicle service areas

 Material storage areas and outdoor equipment storage area

 Fueling stations, loading and unloading areas, liquid storage tanks, trash 

collection areas, and oil/water separators or other equipment used to treat 

water
Chapter 9 Wastewater and Stormwater 9

 Areas where there have been significant spill

 Location of spill cleanup materials and equipment

 Haul routes or access road

9.2.4 Stormwater Permit “No Exposure” Exemption

On December 8, 1999 EPA finalized regulations that covered small municipa

stormwater discharges and addressed several issues of concern with the original 

stormwater regulations that were finalized in 1990. The regulation is referred to

as the Phase II Storm Water Regulation. While most of the regulation address

municipalities, it contains two items of interest to fuel terminals. This includes

a change in the size of disturbed area undergoing construction that requires a 

stormwater construction permit, from 5 acres to 1 acre (discussed below) and an 

exemption from stormwater permitting if no materials are exposed to stormwater.

You may be eligible for an exemption from a stormwater permit if no materials 

are exposed to stormwater (see 40 CFR 122.26 (g)). Under the conditional no

exposure exclusion, operators of industrial facilities have the opportunity to 

certify to a condition of “no exposure” if their industrial materials and operations 

are not exposed to stormwater. The regulation states that a stormwater permit is

not needed if:

 Any using, storing, or cleaning of machinery or equipment or materials that

come from the using, storing, or cleaning of machinery or equipment are 

under cover and not exposed to stormwater.

 Any spills or leaks are cleaned up and no material is left on the ground or

washed in stormwater inlets.

 There are no materials exposed to stormwater from past industrial activity

 Any material handling equipment is stored in a shelter unless they are

properly maintained (that is, no oil leaks).

 Any loading and unloading activities are conducted under a roof or in such a

manner that the materials cannot be spilled on the ground.

 Any materials or products stored outdoors are covered, and exposure to

stormwater does not result in the discharge of pollutants.

  shelter covers open, deteriorated, or leaking storage drums, barrels, tanks,

and similar containers.

 Waste materials, such as trash, are in covered, non-leaking containers (for 

example, dumpsters).

 There is no application of process water to the facility grounds unless it is

covered by an PDES pe

 There is no visible deposit of materials from roof stacks and/or vents that

is not allowed by a permit (such as an air quality control permit) and the 

material is not evident in the stormwater flow.

If your site meets the requirements for “no exposure,” a form needs to be completed and submitted to PA or the authorized state agency. As long as the condition of “no exposure” exists at a certified facility, the operator is excluded f

industrial stormwater permit requirements, provided that the operator resubmits 
9-14 Chapter 9 Wastewater and Stormwa

the form every 5 years and the conditions at the site still meet the requirements. 

If conditions at your site change so that materials are exposed to stormwater, 

then a permit must be obtained. Always check with the permitting authority in

your state and/or speak to an appropriate environmental representative about 

whether your site qualifies for the “no exposure” exemption.

9.2.5 Construction Site Stormwater Runoff Management

It has become evident over time that stormwater and sediment runoff from 

construction sites have contributed to water pollution.

Most states administer stormwater permitting requirements for construction

sites that have land-disturbing activities affecting 1 acre or more. However, some

states, as well as regional and local agencies, require stormwater management 

for construction projects disturbing less than 1 acre. “Disturbance” refers to

exposed soil resulting from activities such as clearing, grading, and excavation. 

Construction activities can include road building, construction of buildings or 

tank farms, and demolition. Construction affecting less than 1 acre may be regulated if it is part of a larger, phased project with a planned disturbance of equal 

to or greater than 1 acre. In other words, you are not able to parcel or phase your 

construction activities into pieces each less than 1 acre to avoid regulation of 

your stormwater discharges.

Operators of regulated construction sites are required to develop and implement a SWPPP and to obtain permit coverage from an authorized state ag

or from PA if the state is not authorized y EPA to ssue NPDES p

stormwater discharges associated with construction activities.

Construction General Permits (CGPs) outline a set of provisions that constructio

operators must follow to comply with the requirements of the PDES stormw

regulations. The CGP generally covers any site that is 1 acre or larger, includin

smaller sites that are part of a larger project. To apply for coverage under this

general permit, an operator must meet the requirements of the CGP, submit a

completed NOI form t EPA or the delegated state or local agency, prepare

implement a SWPPP, and implement BMPs at the site to minimize pollu

(mainly sediments) in the stormwater runoff from the site. The NOI reques

a variety of information, including latitude and longitude of the construction 

activity and information related to the Endangered Species Act (ESA) an

National Historic Preservation At. A SWPPP that identifies BMPs t

pollutant runoff is also required. Finally, a Notice of Termination (NOT) for

submitted to PA or delegated agency at the completion of construction wh

disturbed soils are stabilized (that is, vegetated or paved) and temporary erosion 

and sediment control measures have been removed. Contact your state or local 

permitting authority to obtain its regulations or ordinances addressing erosion 

and sediment controls.

BMPs for construction activities consist of, but are not limited t

 Dust controls with water, geotextile mats, or seedin

 Silt fences and gravel or stone filter berms or rip ra

 Mulching with hay, wood chips, straw, or grave

In a short time, construction 

activity can contribute more 

sediment to streams than can be 

deposited by natural causes over 

several decades. EPA has identified 

erosion as the single largest cause 

of impaired water quality in rivers.

Did You Know?
Chapter 9 Wastewater and Stormwater 9

 Grading, sloping, and terracing land

 Preserving natural vegetation where feasibl

 Sequencing construction activitie

 Limiting construction entrances and exits

 Constructing diversion structures (for example, retaining walls, dams, 

channels, or retention ponds)

9.3 Stormwater Runoff Requirements for Federal 

Agencies

Section 438 of the Energy Independence and Security Act instructs federal agencies to use the next generation of stormwater management practices instead

conventional approaches to control runoff. This involves site planning, design,

construction, and maintenance strategies for the property to maintain or restore, 

to the maximum extent technically feasible, the predevelopment hydrology 

of the property for any project with a footprint that exceeds 5,000 square feet. 

Predevelopment hydrology is the combination of runoff, infiltration, and evapotranspiration rates and volumes that typically existed on a site before human-induced land disturbance occurred (for example, construction of infrastructure on

undeveloped land such as meadows or forests). Federal agencies can comply 

with Section 438 by using a variety of stormwater management practices referred

to as green infrastructure or low impact development practice, including for 

example reducing impervious surfaces, using vegetative gardens, porous pavements, green roofs, infiltration tree planters and pocket wetlands, or rainwater 

cisterns to capture and reuse stormwater. 

9.4 State Requirements

In many cases, the PDES program has been delegate by EPA to the stat

quality agency, with PA retaining oversight authority. As of July 2018, all 

three states (Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and New Mexico), the Distri

Columbia, and six territories (American Samoa, Guam, Johnston Atoll, Mid

Island, Northern Mariana Islands, and Puerto Rico) have been authorized

to implement their own PDES permitting program. Regonal EPA a

contacts for PDES permits are listed in Append

If your state has an EPA-authorizd NPDES program, you deal directly w

state agency when applying for or renewing an PDES permit. In some sta

the permitting authority is delegated down to the regional level. For specific 

requirements, always check with your local, state, or regional agencies.

 PDES permits in California are issued by nine regional water quality con

boards.

 In California, oil/water separators are fixed treatment units and have special 

regulations for operating.

 The states whereEPA as NPDES permitting authority for cons

activities needing stormwater permits are Massachusetts, New Hampshir

New Mexico, the District of Columbia, and six territories. All other states h

their own permitting programs and requirements. 

State Requirements
9-16 Chapter 9 Wastewater and Stormwa

 Some states refer to SWPPPs by other names or require additional plan

accompany the SWPPP. For instance, California, Florida, Illinois, New Y

South Carolina, Virginia, and Washington require a SWPPP. Alabama req

a Stormwater Best Management Practices Plan for industrial activities an

Construction Best Management Practices Plan for construction activities. 

sure to understand what plans are required in the state where your facility is 

located.

 Some states require Erosion and Sediment Control Plans for construct

activities. These states may require that the plan be developed and stamped

by a Professional Engineer (PE), such North Carolina and O

 In Florida, the state’s Department of Environmental Protection h

permitting authority for construction and industrial activities.  SWPP

required prior to receiving a Construction General Permit or Multi-Sect

Generic Permit. BMPs are required to be identified within the SWPP

more information on Florida’s PDES requirements, visit https://florid

gov/Water/Stormwater .

 In South Carolina, the Department of Health and Environmental Cont

manages the state’s PDES program. South Carolina requires th

be prepared for coverage under the Construction General Permit and

requires BMPs for Erosion and Sediment Control. For more informat

on South Carolina’sNPDES Requirements, visit https://www.scdh

environment/water-quality/stormwater.

9.5 For More Information

For Information On... See...

NPDES Agencies

EPA Office of Wastewa

Managemen

www.epa.gov/owm

EPA’s Stormwater Program www.epa.gov/npdes/npdes-stormwater-pr

Documents and References

National Menu of Stormwat

Best Management Practic

www.epa.gov/npdes/national-menu-best-management-practices-bmps-stormwater

Construction Site Stormwate

Runoff Contro

www3.epa.gov/npdes/pubs/fact2-6.pdf

Downloadable information on the

NPDES pr

www.epa.gov/npdes/npdes-technical-resources

Impaired Waters and Total

Maximum Daily Loa

http://water.epa.gov/lawsregs/lawsguidance/cwa/

tmdl/index.cfm

Green Infrastructure and Low 

Impact Developmen

www.epa.gov/green-infrastructure

Technical Guidance on

Implementing the Stormwater

Runoff Requirements for Federa

Projects under Section 438 o

the Energy Independence and

Security A

www.epa.gov/greeningepa/documents/ www.epa.

gov/sites/production/files/2015-08/documents/

epa_swm_guidance.pdf

For More Information
Chapter 9 Wastewater and Stormwater 9

9.6 Action Items

Item

Date 

Started

Date 

Completed N/A Comment(s)

Obtain permits for stormwater, oil/water separators, and 

other wastewater discharges 

from your state, federal, or 

local environmental agency.



Prepare and implement 

a SWPPP to ensure t

stormwater does not come 

into contact with sources of 

contamination.



Form a stormwater pollution 

prevention team. 

Train your personnel in 

stormwater pollution 

prevention, wastewater 

sampling, and agency 

reporting.



Identify and remove nonallowable NSWD f

stormwater outfalls.



Routinely sample and analyze

your stormwater for pollutants, as required by your 

permit.



Perform quarterly outfall 

and BMP inspection an

document findings in your 

annual report as required by 

your permit.



Update your SWPPP and 

site map when there are 

changes in BMPs, sedimen

and erosion control measures, outdoor materials 

management, and stormwater regulations.



Routinely sample and analyze

your wastewater for pollutants, as required by your 

permit.



Maintain detailed sampling

records, including dates, locations, who sampled, who 

analyzed, and the analytical 

method(s) used to test your 

samples.



Routinely report your monitoring results to federal, 

state, and local regulatory 

agencies, as required by 

your permit.



Action Items
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Chapter 9 Wastewater and Stormwater 9

Appendix 9−1 Stormwater Sample Collection Form

CHAPTER 9

Appendix
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Chapter 9 Wastewater and Stormwater 9

Appendix 9-1: Stormwater Sample Collection Form

This appendix presents general guidelines for collecting and analyzing stormwater samples. You can also use the

Inspection Record Form (below) to document your sampling and inspection events

 Wait a minimum of 72 hours after the previous rainfall event (greater than 0.1 inch of rainfall accumulation). 

This requirement is waived when the previous storm within this time frame did not produce a discharge greater

than 0.1 inch.

 If no qualifying storm event resulted in runoff from the facility during the quarter, visual monitoring is excused. 

Documentation must be included in the monitoring records to indicate that no qualifying storm event occurred

during that quarter.

 Take a sample at each stormwater outfall

 Collect a grab sample within the first 30 minutes of observed stormwater discharge if possible but no later than 

1 hour from initial discharge.

 Verify that the sample is for a defined rainfall event (minimum accumulation of 0.1 inch in rain gauge or from 

local rain data).

 Use a clean, clear glass jar for sample collection.

 Take the sample from the horizontal and vertical center of the channel

 Complete an Inspection Record Form for each outfall

 Maintain the completed Inspection Record Form with the 

 Initiate follow-up actions and revise the Inspection Record Form, if necessary. Additional requirements fo

analytical laboratory sampling:

 SectorS facilities that use more than 100,000 gallons per year of glycol-based deicing agents or more than 10

tons per year of urea are required to collect and analyze samples of stormwater runoff. Complete additional 

information toward end of form.

Inspection Record Form

Facility: 

Outfall location:

Date: Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 (circle

Person Collecting Sample

Start Time of Stormwater Dischar

Time Sample Collected

Total Rainfall Amount (minimum of 0.1 inch for representative event

Attach documentation of rainfall event.

Signature:
9-22 Chapter 9 Wastewater and Stormwa

Parameter Objectionable Conditions Noted

Color (none, yellow, brown, green, gray, other)

Odor (none, sewage, sulfide, oil, gas, rancid,

other)

Clarity (clear, semiclear, murky)

Floating solids (solids floating on top of sample)

Settled solids (soils that settle to bottom of

sample)

Suspended solids (solids suspended in sample

Foam

Oil (none, sheen present

Scu

Turbidity (none, cloudy, opaque

Materials associated with domestic or municipal

sewage or industrial waste

Other objectionable conditions: vegetation,

deposits, stains, structural damage

Notes:

This section to be completed by Sector S facilities requiring laboratory analyses

Containers submitted for analysis (type and number): 

Laboratory: 

Analyses requested:

Attach lab results to the end of this form

Follow-up

Follow-up Actions Completed:

Date of Follow-up Actions

Signature for Follow-up Actions

Note:

Completed inspection record forms should be maintained on file with the SW