Department of Environmental Engineering

Virginia Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (VPDES) Permit Program for Construction Sites Greater than One Acre

The Virginia Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (VPDES) permit program, which was formerly is administered by the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, is now being administered by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. The program requires operators of construction sites of one acre or larger (including smaller sites that are part of a large common plan of development) to obtain a VPDES construction storm water general permit. The VPDES Permit requires site operators to develop and adhere to a storm water pollution prevention plan, which includes an erosion and sediment control plan approved by the County.

The County’s recently revised Erosion & Sediment Control Ordinance states that no Land Disturbance Permit can be issued until a VPDES Permit Registration Statement and Fee From have been submitted to DEQ. These forms have been revised and must now be sent to DCR. Copies of the two forms must still be submitted to the Environmental Engineering Department prior to the issuance of a land disturbance permit. In submitting the registration statement to DCR, those undertaking land disturbing activities simply register to be covered under the general permit and pay the applicable fee. Once the registration statement and fee forms are submitted to DCR, it is then up to that agency to ensure the permit requirements are followed.

For general questions about the VPDES program, please email the Water Quality Manager or call 751-4665. The Registration Statement and Fee Form are listed below and can be downloaded. Questions regarding the details of the changes in the permit program should be directed to lee.hill@dcr.virginia.gov.

The Registration Statement and Fee Form are listed below and can be downloaded.

Download documents

• VSMP General Permit Registration Statement - Construction Activity Stormwater Discharges (DCR01)
• Department of Conservation and Recreation Permit Application Fee Form
• VSMP General Permit Notice Of Termination - Construction Activity Storm Water Discharges (DCR01)
• General Permit for Discharges of Stormwater from Construction Activities Authorization to Discharge under the Virginia Stormwater Management Program and the Virginia Stormwater Management Act
• VSMP General Permit Registration Statement-Construction Activity Discharges Checklist