Construction practices can introduce hazardous contaminants into the environment. Potential pollutants include fuels, grease, lime, cement, and other wastes related to construction.
Many studies suggest that the most effective way to reduce sediment losses is to prevent erosion.
The Clean Water Act played a key role in the development of stormwater regulations - it states that no one has the right to pollute U.S. waters and provided the basis for current stormwater regulations. Stormwater management plans should include a description of how site planning will be conducted, requirements for structural and non-structural BMPs, procedures to inspect sites and enforce control measures, and education and training resources and programs for construction site managers. Additional permits and requirements may apply for specific conditions that produce contaminated waters that may flow from a construction site. Related issues covered by stormwater regulations include flows from municipal storm sewers, runoff from industrial and manufacturing sites, and contaminants from highways, airports, and vehicle traffic.