A SWPPP is required (by the construction general permit) and will help you prevent stormwater pollution A SWPPP is more than just a sediment and erosion control plan. It describes all the construction site operator’s activities to prevent stormwater contamination, control sedimentation and erosion, and comply with the requirements of the Clean Water Act.
Most SWPPPs are written documents that describe the pollution prevention practices and activities that will be implemented on the site. It includes descriptions of the site and of each major phase of the planned activity, the roles and responsibilities of contractors and subcontractors, and the inspection schedules and logs. It is also a place to document changes and
modifications to the construction plans and associated stormwater pollution prevention activities.
When developing a SWPPP, it is important to understand the difference between erosion control and sediment control. Erosion control measures (e.g., mulch, blankets, mats, vegetative cover) protect the soil surface and prevent soil particles from being dislodged and carried away by wind or water. Sediment control measures remove soil particles after they have been dislodged (typically through settling or filtration). It is usually easier and less expensive to prevent erosion than it is to control sedimentation.
The Erosion and Sediment Control Plan (ESCP) provides detailed information about the construction site, and serves as a blueprint for the location, installation, and maintenance of the erosion and sediment control measures.