Statewide General Construction Permit
On September 2, 2009 the State Water Resource Control Board (SWRCB) adopted the new statewide Construction General Permit (GSP), Order 2009-0009-DWQ. The Construction General Permit requires the development and implementation of a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP). Dischargers whose projects disturb one or more acres of soil or whose projects disturb less than one acre but are part of a larger common plan of development that in total disturbs one or more acres, are required to obtain coverage under this General Permit. Construction activity subject to this permit includes clearing, grading and disturbances to the ground such as stockpiling, or excavation, but does not include regular maintenance activities performed to restore the original line, grade, or capacity of the facility.
In 2007, California Stormwater Quality Association (CASQA) and the SWRCB first collaborated on an idea to develop training to meet the requirements identified in the Construction General Permit through convening a cross-section of professionals involved in construction stormwater regulation, compliance, and training known as the California Construction General Permit Training Team (CGP Training Team). CASQA as a member of the CGP Training Team has been assisting in development of the Qualified SWPPP Developer (QSD) and Qualified SWPPP Practitioner (QSP) training required by the CGP. CASQA is administering the CGP Training Program on behalf of the State Water Board.