Pollution Prevention for Construction Sites

Share & Bookmark, Press Enter to show all options, press Tab go to next option
Print

Construction wood covered with plastic sheeting and sandbags

  • All building materials must be contained and covered.
    • Materials must be stored on-site at all times unless an encroachment permit has been obtained.

Close up of portable toilet with plastic containment tray


  • Secondary containment trays are REQUIRED for all portable toilets.
  • NEVER stage in street, gutter pan or over/near storm drains. 
  • Service regularly.

Large metal bin labeled "Paint Washout Only"


  • The disposal of “wet” construction materials should be handled in the washout area. This includes paint, stucco and concrete.
  • Use a berm and/or plastic sheet to collect and contain liquids and prevent run-off in nearby areas.

Permitting/Compliance

  • Federal, state, local regulation; regional codes; and local ordinances prohibit any discharge, other than storm water, into the storm drain system.
  • The property owner is responsible to know and follow all state, regional, and local requirements and guidelines, including obtaining proper permits, for all work to be completed. Work must comply with all applicable conditions, regulations, and requirements.

Be Rain Ready

  • Check the weather prior to performing any outdoor activity. Avoid work in the rain.
  • Be prepared to cover exposed surfaces prior to any potential rain event. Have a plan and supplies on-site.
  • Routine, periodic and storm event triggered inspections are needed to:
    • Identify non-storm water discharges
    • Determine BMP effectiveness
    • Identify necessary repairs or BMP changes.
  •  Keep gutters clear for flow. Large scale construction projects must have a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP).

Spills (including mud, dirt, silt)

  • Create a plan for addressing hazardous and non-hazardous spills. Make sure people on your site know how to respond.
  • Keep spill clean-up materials on-site (absorbents, rags, etc.).
  • Report spills immediately.
  • Never hose down “dirty” pavement or surfaces. Clean up all spills and leaks using “dry” methods (with spill absorbents or comparable materials such as sawdust, cat litter, and/or rags). Sweep areas daily.

Documents

Free viewers are required for some of the attached documents.
They can be downloaded by clicking on the icons below.

Acrobat Reader Download Acrobat Reader Windows Media Player Download Windows Media Player Word Viewer Download Word Viewer Excel Viewer Download Excel Viewer PowerPoint Viewer Download PowerPoint Viewer