Construction Site Runoff Control

CONSTRUCTION SITE RUNOFF CONTROL

According to the EPA Fact sheet on Construction Site Runoff Control, “Sediment runoff rates from construction sites are typically ten to twenty times greater than those of agricultural lands, and one thousand to two thousand times greater than those of forest lands. During a short period of time, construction sites can contribute more sediment to streams than can be deposited naturally during several decades. The resulting situation, and the contribution of other pollutants from construction sites, can cause physical, chemical, and biological harm to our nation’s waters.”

Construction sediment flows into an uncovered storm drain

Figure 1: Cause [Contractor flushes newly installed hydrant near an unprotected catch basin]

Figure 2: Effect [Sediment plumb in a nearby trout stream]

U of M construction standards require temporary and permanent erosion and sediment control measures be incorporated into the design. The construction documents must identify specific controls and locations as well as contractor implementation and inspection responsibilities. Additionally, any storm water discharge from a construction site must be visibly free of sediment.
Sediment can be controlled through the use of silt fences, biologs, sediment traps, check dams, and sandbag barriers. Erosion can be prevented using existing vegetation, mulch, sod, and geotextiles. In addition, sites should be kept free of loose trash and debris.

Construction projects within an urbanized area boundary disturbing more than 3,000 sq ft of land area are requited to have a grading permit through the University of Minnesota Building Code Office. These projects have to meet the storm water requirements spelled out in the University of Minnesota Construction Standards and Specifications in order to obtain that permit. Additional information for design professionals can be found on the Design and Construction Assistance portion of our website.

Construction Storm Water Runoff Control Best Management Practices (BMPs) and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)

4a-1 Ordinance or other Regulatory Mechanism BMP Summary Sheet (2006)

University of Minnesota Storm Water Compliance Procedure

4b-1 Construction Site Implementation of Erosion and Sediment Control BMP Summary Sheet (2006)

4c-1 Waste Controls for Construction Site Operators BMP Summary Sheet (2006)

4d-1 Procedure for Site Plan Review BMP Summary Sheet (2006)

Site Plan Review for Construction Activities that Require a UMN Grading Permit (Currently being updated by UMTC).

4e-1 Establishment of Procedures for the Receipt and Consideration of Reports of Storm Water Noncompliance BMP Summary Sheet (2006)

4e-1 Receipt and Consideration of Noncompliance/Receipt of SW Construction Complaints SOP (2015)

4f-1 Establishment of Procedures for Site Inspections and Enforcement BMP Summary Sheet (2006)

University of Minnesota Stormwater Enforcement Response Procedure

Inspection of Construction Sites that have a UMN Grading Permit (Currently being updated by UMTC).