For any type of soil disturbance over 1 acre, what permit is required?

When it comes to soil disturbance activities, particularly those that cover more than 1 acre, a Construction General Permit (CGP) is essential in ensuring that soil erosion and sedimentation are adequately controlled during and after land disturbance activities. The CGP is specifically designed to regulate stormwater discharges from construction activities, thereby reducing the potential for pollution entering local waterways and protecting environmental resources.

The CGP outlines specific requirements for erosion and sediment control measures, including the development of a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP), which identifies best management practices (BMPs) tailored to the specific site and project. This permit is mandated by the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) under the Clean Water Act. It ensures that any discharge associated with construction activities does not endanger water quality, emphasizing the importance of responsible land management practices.

Other types of permits mentioned, such as an earthwork permit or a building permit, may be necessary for various construction-related processes, but they do not specifically address the environmental impact of soil disturbances in the same way that the CGP does. The NPDES permit is a broader regulatory framework that includes multiple types of discharges, not just those from construction sites. Thus, the CGP is