A contractor is building a 2,500 square foot office building. The project disturbs 1.5 acres of land. What NPDES permit requirement applies?
Correct Answer
B) Notice of Intent (NOI) for stormwater permit required
NPDES requires a Notice of Intent (NOI) for stormwater permits when construction activities disturb one acre or more of land. Since this project disturbs 1.5 acres, an NOI is required to comply with federal stormwater regulations.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
The National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) requires a Notice of Intent (NOI) for stormwater permits when construction activities disturb one acre or more of land. This project disturbs 1.5 acres, which exceeds the one-acre threshold. The NOI is required under the Construction General Permit (CGP) to prevent stormwater pollution during construction activities. This is a federal requirement that applies regardless of building size or type.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: No permit required
Option A is incorrect because the project disturbs 1.5 acres, which exceeds the one-acre threshold that triggers NPDES permit requirements. Any construction activity disturbing one acre or more requires stormwater permitting.
Option C: Individual permit required
Option C is incorrect because individual permits are typically required for more complex projects or when the general permit doesn't apply. For standard construction activities disturbing over one acre, the Construction General Permit with NOI is the standard requirement, not an individual permit.
Option D: Only local erosion control permit required
Option D is incorrect because while local erosion control permits may also be required, they do not satisfy federal NPDES requirements. The project must comply with both federal stormwater regulations (NPDES NOI) and any applicable local requirements.
Memory Technique
Think 'ONE and DONE' - One acre triggers the requirement, and NOI gets it done for standard construction projects.
Reference Hint
Environmental regulations chapter or EPA Construction General Permit section in your reference materials
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