- bhavya gada
- No Comments
Need a stormwater permit in Prince George’s County? Here’s what you need to know:
- Who Needs a Permit? Anyone planning construction, landscaping, or property modifications that disturb soil or create impervious surfaces.
- Key Documents: You’ll need a site plan, stormwater management concept plan, and erosion and sediment control plan.
- Permit Process:
- Schedule a pre-application meeting with the Department of Permitting, Inspections, and Enforcement (DPIE).
- Submit and revise your concept plan based on feedback.
- Submit final plans for approval and receive your permit.
- Costs: Fees vary based on project size and complexity, including initial filing fees, sediment control fees, and potential modifications.
- Homeowner Exemptions: Single-family homes may be exempt from certain requirements, especially for smaller projects under 5,000 square feet. Check with DPIE for specific rules.
- Compliance: Maintain stormwater facilities per county standards, with inspections required every 1–3 years.
Why This Matters: Proper permits protect local waterways like the Chesapeake Bay, reduce flooding risks, and help meet federal and state environmental standards. Non-compliance can result in fines up to $100,000 per day.
For a smoother process, ensure your plans are detailed, accurate, and compliant with county regulations. Contact DPIE early to clarify requirements and avoid delays.
MDE Guidance For Protecting Stormwater Best Management Practices During Construction November 2023
Required Documents for Permit Applications
Getting your paperwork right from the start is crucial. In Prince George’s County, submitting the proper documentation ensures your project moves forward smoothly. Every application must include a Submittal Checklist and completed Design Review Checklists prepared by your design professional.
The Department of Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement (DPIE) provides all the necessary forms on their website under the Resources section. These forms are essential for setting up a clear and compliant application process.
Site Plan Requirements
A detailed site plan is a must. It should clearly outline property boundaries, existing structures, proposed construction areas, and stormwater management features. The plan must show both current and proposed conditions.
Topographical details are key. Your site plan should illustrate how water currently flows across the property and how your project will impact these drainage patterns. It should also mark existing utilities, easements, and setbacks, as well as any trees or vegetation slated for removal or preservation.
For landscaping or hardscaping projects, the site plan should include patios, walkways, retaining walls, and other impervious surfaces. Additionally, it must demonstrate how these features integrate with your stormwater management strategy, including drainage systems or any Environmental Site Design features.
Stormwater Management Concept Plan
Building on your site plan, the stormwater management concept plan lays out your approach to controlling runoff. This document must be submitted to the Department before advancing to preliminary subdivision plans or detailed construction drawings [2].
Your plan should include runoff calculations that quantify and manage stormwater. It must detail drainage systems such as pipes, inlets, and outlets, as well as stormwater management facilities like retention ponds, bioswales, or permeable pavement systems.
The concept plan should prominently feature Environmental Site Design (ESD) elements, showcasing how natural systems will be used to filter and treat stormwater. If your project involves facilities or land designated for public use, this same information must be submitted to additional agencies for approval [2].
This approved concept plan serves as the foundation for all future construction work. Accuracy and thoroughness are critical because any later changes to your project must align with this approved plan.
Erosion and Sediment Control Plan
To protect local waterways during construction, your erosion and sediment control plan must meet both state and county standards. The plan will be reviewed for compliance with the Maryland Standards and Specifications for Soil Erosion and Sediment Control and the Prince George’s Soil Conservation District Soil Erosion and Sediment Control Pond Safety Reference Manual [3].
The plan should include a narrative and clear illustrations. The narrative must describe the erosion and sedimentation risks specific to your site and outline the measures you’ll take to manage these issues throughout the project [4].
Under the Maryland Stormwater Management Act of 2007 and the 2011 Maryland Standards, erosion, sediment, and stormwater management plans undergo a comprehensive review process [3]. Your plan must show how you’ll control soil erosion, prevent increased runoff, and minimize pollutant discharge during construction.
Prince George’s County has additional conservation standards, especially for projects in Chesapeake Bay resource protection areas.
Your plan should detail temporary measures like silt fencing, sediment traps, and stabilized construction entrances, as well as permanent solutions that will remain after construction is complete. Timing matters – your plan must specify when each measure will be installed and how long it will stay in place.
These documents are the foundation of the permit review and approval process, ensuring your project meets all necessary regulations.
Step-by-Step Permit Process Guide
Once you’ve gathered the necessary documents, the permit process follows a clear sequence. Knowing what to expect at each stage can help you navigate the system smoothly and avoid delays that could disrupt your project timeline. Here’s a breakdown of the key steps involved.
Pre-application Meeting
Start by scheduling a pre-application meeting with DPIE. This is a required step for certain project types, such as new non-residential buildings, multi-family residential construction, grading permits, and projects involving subdivisions or rezoning[5].
You’ll need to apply for this meeting through the permit center, including all required details and fees[5]. If you have questions before filing, the Community Development Coordinator can assist.
Bring your technical team – architects, engineers, and project managers – to the meeting. Their expertise can help address technical questions and ensure everyone is clear on the specific requirements for your project[5]. During the session, county staff will review your preliminary plans, identify potential issues, and clarify which permits are needed. They’ll also explain the review timeline and flag any special requirements for your site.
After the meeting, you’ll receive written comments. While these are informational and non-binding[5], they’re invaluable for refining your plans and spotting potential challenges before diving into detailed engineering work.
Submitting and Revising Concept Plans
Using the feedback from your pre-application meeting, submit your stormwater management concept plan to the County Department of Environmental Resources for formal review[7]. This step officially kicks off the review process, where your plans are evaluated against all relevant regulations.
At the same time, the Planning Department will review your site plans to ensure they meet zoning requirements. They’ll provide comments to address any deficiencies[7].
Be prepared for multiple review cycles. Most projects require revisions based on the initial feedback. Reviewers will check your plans for compliance with stormwater management rules, zoning regulations, and environmental standards. They might request changes to drainage calculations, facility designs, or site layouts.
Stay updated by regularly checking DPIE notifications about changes to permit and plan review processes[6]. These updates can impact timelines or requirements for your project.
When you receive review comments, address them thoroughly. Provide written responses explaining how you’ve resolved each issue, and clearly highlight all changes on your revised plans. Incomplete responses can lead to additional review cycles, delaying your project.
For projects involving subdivision approval, your preliminary plat will also be reviewed to ensure that public facilities – like schools, fire and rescue services, police, and roads – can support the development.
Final Plan Submission and Permit Issuance
After resolving all review comments, you’ll move to the final plan submission. Once your concept plan is approved, prepare detailed technical drawings that align exactly with the approved plan. Any deviations could trigger further reviews and delays.
Your final submission undergoes a comprehensive review to confirm that the detailed drawings match the approved stormwater management plan and meet all engineering standards. This stage also includes a review of site plan details, such as landscaping, buffering, and grading. Your plans must clearly show the locations and designs of buildings, streets, landscaping elements, and stormwater management features.
Permits for building, use and occupancy, grading, and signage are issued by the Prince George’s County Department of Environmental Resources. In some cases, DER may refer your application to other agencies, like M-NCPPC, to ensure compliance with zoning, historic preservation, and subdivision regulations.
Once everything is approved, you’ll receive your official permit documents, allowing you to move forward with your project.
Timelines, Fees, and Compliance Requirements
Once you’ve submitted the final plan and received your permit, it’s essential to stay on top of timelines, fees, and compliance requirements to keep your project on track.
Understanding the financial and time commitments tied to your permit is key. Prince George’s County provides clear fee structures and review processes, but both costs and timelines will vary depending on the size and complexity of your project.
Typical Permit Approval Timelines
Permit approvals happen in stages. The Department of Permitting, Inspections, and Enforcement (DPIE) gives the final go-ahead, but only after review by the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission. Site-related permits are handled by the Site/Road Plan Review Division. The time each stage takes depends entirely on how complex your project is. This step-by-step timeline works alongside earlier processes to ensure smooth progress.
Permit Fees and Associated Costs
Fees are based on the county’s fee schedule, and you’ll need to budget for several charges. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:
- Initial Filing Fee: One-third of the estimated permit cost is due upfront and is nonrefundable.
- Sediment Control Fees:
- $100 for sediment control review if your project covers more than 5,000 square feet.
- $200 for the first acre requiring SCD field review above 5,000 square feet, with additional fees of $100 per acre (up to 5 acres) and $50 per acre beyond that.
- $300 flat fee for reviewing a concept sediment control plan.
- Permit Modifications: Fees range from $100 for minor revisions to 25% of the original fee for major changes.
- Other Charges:
- $250 for bond reduction or recall.
- $100 per connection for special drain permits.
- $2,500 or $3,500 for floodplain studies, depending on scope.
- An annual Clean Water Act Fee of $20.58, plus $20.90 per Equivalent Service Unit (ESU) [8].
Post-Permit Compliance and Maintenance
Once your permit is issued, ongoing compliance becomes your responsibility. Stormwater facilities must be maintained according to the approved plans and regulations. Here’s what that entails:
- The Department of the Environment requires an initial inspection during the first year of operation, followed by inspections at least every three years for privately maintained facilities [10].
- A licensed professional engineer must provide detailed reports outlining inspection results and observations [10].
- Any deficiencies identified during inspections must be addressed within 30 days. Keep thorough records of all inspections, repairs, and modifications for future reference [10].
Additionally, your facility plays a role in the county’s NPDES MS4 permit program, which focuses on controlling stormwater pollutants through Best Management Practices (BMPs) [1]. Long-term planning should account for maintenance costs, such as regular inspections, vegetation upkeep, sediment removal, and equipment repairs. These ongoing efforts ensure your project remains compliant and functional over time.
sbb-itb-843f8be
Special Rules for Homeowners
Homeowners in Prince George’s County have a unique set of stormwater permit rules to follow. While compliance with county and environmental regulations is essential, there are specific exemptions designed to make the process easier for homeowners. Knowing these rules can help you save both time and money when planning home improvements or landscaping projects.
Exemptions for Single-Family Homes
If you own a single-family home, you’ll find that certain exemptions simplify the permitting process. Existing single-family homes are exempt from the residential landscaping and buffering requirements outlined in Sections 4.1, 4.11, and 4.6 of the Prince George’s County Landscape Manual. This means you have more flexibility when adding a driveway, making front-yard improvements, or planning an addition. These exemptions don’t apply to new subdivisions or commercial properties, so homeowners have fewer hurdles to clear.
However, there are limits. If your home improvement costs exceed 50% of your home’s current value, you may need to meet elevation or floodproofing standards [11]. Additionally, projects near watercourses often require permits, even if they’re not located in a designated floodplain [11].
Project size also plays a role. If your individual project disturbs less than 5,000 square feet, you likely won’t need a permit. But if your work is part of a larger effort that collectively disturbs more than 5,000 square feet, you’ll need to get one [12].
Before starting any major home improvement, it’s a good idea to contact the Department of Permitting, Inspections, and Enforcement (DPIE). Their Looksee system can help you verify whether permits are necessary for your project [11].
There’s also financial relief available for some homeowners. If you qualify for the Homeowners’ Property Tax Credit from the Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation, you may also qualify for financial hardship status, which reduces stormwater fees [8]. Properties in the City of Bowie are automatically exempt from the Clean Water Act Fee because the city manages its own stormwater program [8].
Finally, don’t forget to check with your neighborhood or HOA for additional rules – they often have their own requirements.
Neighborhood and HOA Regulations
Beyond county rules, homeowners associations (HOAs) and neighborhood communities may set their own stormwater management guidelines. Many Maryland community associations are impacted by local stormwater fees, which fund stormwater management plans and facility upgrades [9]. In Prince George’s County, where stormwater utility fees are already in place, HOAs often look for ways to reduce costs. Some associations are exploring credits for implementing measures that reduce stormwater runoff.
The stakes are high. Maryland’s stormwater improvement plans call for $7.4 billion in investments statewide by 2025. These efforts are expected to contribute 17% of the nitrogen reductions and 45% of the phosphorus reductions needed to meet Chesapeake Bay restoration goals [9].
Your HOA may have stricter stormwater management rules than the county. For example, they might require approval for changes to drainage, impervious surfaces, or landscaping that affects water runoff. Be sure to review your HOA’s covenants and architectural guidelines before starting exterior projects.
To offset costs, homeowners can take advantage of incentive programs. Prince George’s County, in partnership with the Chesapeake Bay Trust, offers the Rain Check Rebate Program. This program provides financial incentives for installing features like rain gardens, permeable pavement, or other solutions that improve stormwater runoff quality [12]. These upgrades can help you meet both county and HOA requirements while potentially lowering your stormwater utility fees.
Keep in mind, however, that projects required by regulations won’t qualify for funding under the Stormwater Stewardship Grant Program [12]. On the other hand, voluntary improvements that go beyond the minimum requirements might be eligible for grants aimed at supporting community water quality initiatives and resident engagement [12].
If you’re planning a project, consider hiring a contractor who understands both county and HOA requirements. For example, Pro Landscapes MD specializes in navigating the complexities of stormwater management in Prince George’s County. They can help with drainage solutions, grading, and other projects to ensure compliance with all regulations and guidelines.
Conclusion
Navigating the stormwater permit process in Prince George’s County requires careful attention to detail, as non-compliance can result in fines reaching up to $100,000 per day [13]. These regulations, rooted in EPA and MDE standards, dictate every stage of the permitting and compliance process.
Key Takeaways
To succeed, it’s essential to submit complete applications that align with current zoning ordinances and subdivision regulations. Incorporating Environmental Site Design (ESD) technologies is mandatory for both new and redevelopment projects [1]. The County’s NPDES MS4 permit, renewed in 2014, sets strict guidelines, including GIS mapping, managing runoff from construction and development sites, controlling pollution in storm drains, and educating the public [1].
Timely, accurate documentation is crucial for compliance. Reviews ensure adherence to notification and sign-posting requirements, among other regulations [7]. The Planning Department offers valuable guidance throughout the development review process, so reaching out early in your planning can help streamline your project [7]. Additionally, implementing Best Management Practices (BMPs) to control stormwater pollutants is a regulatory obligation [1].
The risks of non-compliance are steep. In 2020, four solar energy companies collectively paid $1.34 million to resolve Clean Water Act violations tied to stormwater permits [13]. Similarly, a California container terminal company faced a $47,100 fine for failing to implement BMPs and for inadequately developing a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) [13].
With these insights in mind, partnering with experienced professionals is a practical step to ensure compliance and avoid costly mistakes.
How Pro Landscapes MD Can Help
Professional guidance is key to avoiding delays and penalties. Pro Landscapes MD offers specialized stormwater management solutions across Prince George’s County and central Maryland, providing the expertise needed to navigate complex regulatory requirements.
Their services cover a wide range of drainage solutions, including French drains, grading, land leveling, and stormwater management systems. These solutions not only address water-related challenges but also ensure compliance with ESD requirements and county-mandated Best Management Practices [1].
Pro Landscapes MD also goes beyond standard drainage systems. They install environmental pavers and create eco-friendly outdoor spaces that align with the county’s goals to reduce pollutants and improve water quality [1]. Their experience with permeable surfaces, rain gardens (through the Rain Check Rebate Program), and other green infrastructure solutions can help you meet regulatory standards while enhancing your property’s functionality and appeal.
FAQs
What happens if I don’t meet the stormwater permit requirements in Prince George’s County?
Failing to meet stormwater permit requirements in Prince George’s County can come with hefty consequences. For starters, you could be hit with civil fines, which typically begin at $100 per day for each unresolved violation. In some cases, penalties have reached as high as $475,000 for neglecting to carry out stormwater runoff reduction work required under the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit.
Beyond financial penalties, non-compliance might lead to legal action and could require you to take on supplemental environmental projects to offset the harm caused by the violations. Staying on top of these requirements not only helps you sidestep these penalties but also plays a part in fostering a cleaner, healthier community.
Does my single-family home project need a stormwater permit in Prince George’s County, or is it exempt?
To determine if your single-family home project in Prince George’s County requires a stormwater permit, here are a few key points to consider:
- Location: If your property is within the City of Bowie, you’re in luck – Bowie has its own stormwater management program, so no county permit is needed.
- Ownership: Properties owned by the state, county, or local municipalities and used for public purposes are exempt from this requirement.
- Project Scope: If your project involves minimal land disturbance or doesn’t significantly increase impervious surfaces (like driveways or patios), it might qualify for an exemption.
For detailed guidance, check the county’s stormwater regulations or reach out to the Department of Permitting, Inspections, and Enforcement for personalized assistance.
How can I make sure my stormwater management plan gets approved quickly in Prince George’s County?
How to Get Your Stormwater Management Plan Approved in Prince George’s County
If you’re aiming for a smooth and speedy approval of your stormwater management plan in Prince George’s County, preparation is key. Start by thoroughly reviewing the guidelines provided by the Department of Permitting, Inspections, and Enforcement (DPIE). Pay close attention to the specific requirements for documents like site plans and calculations, ensuring everything aligns with local regulations.
When you’re ready to submit your application, use the county’s online Momentum portal. To simplify the process, choose the "Virtual Walk-Through Submission" option. This feature can help expedite the review process. Also, take the time to confirm that your plan complies with all relevant state and federal guidelines. Overlooking these details could lead to delays or additional review cycles, so being meticulous upfront can save you time and hassle.
Chat with Us