Efficient stormwater management is critical in Maryland to prevent flooding, reduce pollution, and protect waterways. Here’s what you need to know about the state’s regulations:

• Why It Matters: Maryland’s strict stormwater laws aim to ensure systems remain functional, especially with increasing rainfall.
• Inspection Requirements:
  • Pre-construction: Notify authorities before starting.
  • During construction: Certified inspections with detailed reports.
  • Post-construction: Submit as-built certifications within 45 days.
• Ongoing Maintenance:
  • Inspections every 1-3 years to check system performance.
  • Regular tasks like sediment removal, vegetation control, and structural repairs.
• Common Problems: Damaged structures, clogged filters, and poor grading can disrupt system efficiency.
• Fixing Violations: Address issues promptly, from structural repairs to updating documentation.

Quick Tip: Collaborating with professionals can help ensure compliance, avoid costly repairs, and maintain system functionality over time.

For property owners and businesses, staying compliant with Maryland’s stormwater rules is not just about avoiding fines – it’s about safeguarding your property and the environment.

MDE Guidance For Protecting Stormwater Best Management Practices During Construction November 2023

Maryland Stormwater Laws and Rules

Maryland’s approach to stormwater management is guided by both state and federal laws, with the core regulatory framework outlined in COMAR Title 26.

State and Local Oversight

The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) serves as the primary authority for enforcing stormwater regulations. It collaborates closely with county and municipal agencies to ensure compliance. Under COMAR 26.17.02, the MDE provides guidelines that local jurisdictions must adhere to when running their stormwater management programs ^[3]. Local agencies are responsible for enforcement; for example, Anne Arundel County’s Department of Public Works monitors compliance with NPDES permits and submits annual compliance reports to the MDE ^[5]. This layered oversight ensures inspections are conducted to meet strict standards.

Required Inspections

These regulations establish thorough inspection protocols to maintain the integrity of stormwater systems. COMAR 26.17.02.10 specifies the requirements for inspections during construction and enforcement ^[2].

Construction cannot proceed without certified inspections confirming compliance. These inspections must be documented in detailed written reports, which include information such as the date, location, compliance status, any plan deviations, violations, and necessary corrections.

For stormwater management practices – like ponds, wetlands, and infiltration systems – inspections are required at specific construction stages ^[2]. Additionally, property owners must create and adhere to an operation and maintenance plan as part of their stormwater management approval ^[4]. The MDE mandates notification within 45 days after completing any stormwater management practice ^[2].

Meeting Inspection Standards

Inspection Schedule and Checks

In Maryland, stormwater inspection requirements for construction projects cover both the construction phase and the long-term maintenance of the systems. This ensures proper oversight during construction and helps maintain system performance over time.

Baltimore County outlines specific inspection phases:

Each inspection produces a written report that outlines compliance status and any needed corrections ^[6].

Creating a Stormwater Prevention Plan

Before applying for permit coverage, a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) must be developed. This plan should include the following components:

• Site Assessment and Planning: Describe construction activities, identify pollutant sources, and detail control measures. Include timelines, site maps, and drainage patterns.
• Control Measures: Explain strategies for preventing erosion, controlling sediment, and minimizing pollution. Include maintenance procedures for these controls.
• Implementation Schedule: Provide a timeline for installing and maintaining stormwater controls, along with inspection schedules and assigned responsibilities.

Once the SWPPP is in place, ongoing maintenance ensures the system remains effective.

System Maintenance Steps

Maintaining stormwater systems after control measures are established is crucial for their effectiveness. Key maintenance tasks include:

• Sediment Management: Clear sediment and debris from detention areas and inlet/outlet structures. Document all cleaning and disposal activities.
• Vegetation Control: Keep grass at the recommended height, remove invasive plants that could damage the system, and ensure adequate ground cover to prevent erosion.
• Structural Integrity: Address any structural damage or erosion promptly and maintain proper drainage grades to ensure water flows as intended.

In Baltimore County, property owners are required to maintain their stormwater management facilities in line with approved plans ^[6]. After the one-year maintenance inspection, facilities are reinspected every three years to confirm compliance and functionality.

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Common Problems and Solutions

Top Inspection Issues

Stormwater system inspections in Maryland often uncover critical problems that can disrupt efficiency and compliance. Here are some of the most common issues:

Proper maintenance of Best Management Practices (BMPs) is essential for effective stormwater management. Routine care not only ensures these systems work as intended but also extends their lifespan and helps maintain property value. Addressing these issues promptly is critical to restoring system integrity and preventing further complications.

Fixing Violations

Once inspection problems are identified, resolving violations quickly becomes a top priority. If a property owner receives a Notice of Violation (NOV), they typically have at least 30 days to take corrective action.

• Immediate Response
  Begin by thoroughly reviewing the Correction Notice and documenting each issue. If any part of the notice is unclear, reach out to the inspection department for clarification.
• Corrective Actions
  Address violations by taking these steps:
  • Emergency Issues: Resolve urgent hazards like chemical leaks or illegal dumping right away.
  • Structural Problems: Repair or replace damaged components within the specified timeframe.
  • Maintenance Issues: Clear debris, remove sediment buildup, and control overgrown vegetation.
  • Documentation Gaps: Ensure all maintenance records are updated and properly organized.
• Verification Process
  Schedule a follow-up inspection to confirm compliance and keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance activities.

To prevent future violations, adopt a proactive maintenance plan that includes:

• Conducting regular inspections,
• Installing filtration devices in catch basins to improve performance,
• Keeping detailed logs of maintenance activities,
• Training staff on proper upkeep procedures, and
• Exploring green infrastructure options to enhance system sustainability.

Collaborating with experienced stormwater management experts can help ensure timely corrections and consistent compliance with Maryland’s regulations.

Working with Stormwater Experts

Why Expert Inspections Matter

In Maryland, professional stormwater inspectors play a crucial role in ensuring compliance with the state’s rigorous standards. They excel at identifying potential problems early on, which is especially important given Maryland’s focus on Environmental Site Design (ESD) to the Maximum Extent Practicable (MEP) under the Maryland Stormwater Management Act of 2007 ^[1][8].

Collaborating with experienced professionals comes with a range of benefits:

While professional inspections involve upfront costs, they often save money in the long run by preventing violations and costly fixes. These inspections also lay the groundwork for more comprehensive stormwater management solutions.

Services by Pro Landscapes MD

Pro Landscapes MD specializes in a full range of stormwater management services across central Maryland. Their offerings include:

• System Assessments: Detailed evaluations of existing infrastructure.
• Drainage Installation: Solutions like French drains and dry riverbeds.
• Maintenance Services: Cleaning systems and managing vegetation growth.
• Remediation Work: Grading, leveling, and repairing problem areas.

These services are designed to align with Maryland’s current stormwater regulations under A-StoRM ^[1]. By addressing compliance challenges and leveraging expert insights, Pro Landscapes MD ensures your system remains effective and up to code.

Their team serves several counties, including Howard, Montgomery, Carroll, Frederick, Prince George’s, and Baltimore. They meet or exceed the Maryland Department of Environment (MDE) standards for stormwater management and erosion control, incorporating updated design practices and rainfall data into their work.

"When you receive a notice of violation, our experts will help you develop a plan to address the deficiencies and bring your business into compliance." – iSTORMWATER ^[9]

Regular maintenance is key to staying compliant and keeping your stormwater systems functioning efficiently.

Next Steps for Compliance

Maryland property owners are required to ensure their stormwater systems comply with state standards to safeguard local waterways, including the Chesapeake Bay.

These requirements serve as a practical checklist for staying compliant.

For property owners in Anne Arundel County, the Bureau of Watershed Protection and Restoration offers a helpful tool. By selecting "MS4 Stormwater BMPs" in the Layer List of the Watershed Application, residents can access valuable information to support compliance efforts ^[7].

Regular maintenance of Best Management Practices (BMPs) is crucial for controlling runoff, filtering pollutants, and protecting your property. In Montgomery County, where there are over 17,000 BMPs, the Department of Environmental Protection inspects these systems at least once every three years ^[10]. Scheduling professional maintenance before these inspections can help identify and resolve any issues in advance ^[11].

For those looking to streamline compliance, professional services are a smart option. Pro Landscapes MD offers a range of stormwater management solutions across central Maryland, including system assessments, drainage installations, and ongoing maintenance. Their expertise ensures property owners can meet regulatory standards while safeguarding both their investment and the environment.

FAQs

What happens if I don’t follow Maryland’s stormwater inspection rules?

Failing to meet Maryland’s stormwater inspection requirements can lead to serious repercussions. You could face fines of up to $10,000 per violation, and in some situations, even imprisonment for up to one year. What’s more, each day you remain out of compliance is considered a separate offense, which can quickly escalate the financial penalties.

Beyond fines, you might be required to take immediate steps to fix or improve your stormwater management systems. Authorities can also seek legal remedies, such as injunctions, to ensure compliance. Staying on top of inspections and regular maintenance is crucial to avoiding these expensive and time-draining consequences.

What steps should property owners in Maryland take to prepare for stormwater system inspections?

To get ready for stormwater system inspections in Maryland, property owners should prioritize consistent maintenance and preventative care. This means clearing out sediment, keeping vegetation under control, and fixing any erosion problems. Regular upkeep not only helps your system comply with Maryland’s stormwater regulations but also reduces the chance of expensive repairs after inspections.

Another smart move is scheduling annual inspections with certified professionals. These experts can spot potential issues early and provide solutions to keep your system running smoothly. By taking these proactive steps, you’ll not only be better prepared for inspections but also extend the lifespan of your stormwater management system, ensuring it holds up during heavy rainfall.

How can I fix common stormwater system problems like clogged filters or damaged structures?

To tackle common stormwater system problems like clogged filters or damaged structures, consistent maintenance is essential. Begin by setting up regular inspections and cleanings to remove debris from drainage basins, pipes, and entry points. This simple step helps prevent blockages and keeps the system running smoothly.

For more serious problems – such as damaged structures – it’s wise to bring in a professional. They can evaluate the issue and carry out necessary repairs before it escalates. Additionally, taking preventative actions, like installing root barriers, can safeguard your system from long-term damage caused by invasive tree roots. Staying ahead of potential issues not only keeps your stormwater system working efficiently but also saves you from expensive repairs later.

Related posts

• Maryland Stormwater Act Overview
• Stormwater Pipe Repair: Maryland Compliance Guide
• Maryland Stormwater Certification Requirements
• Top SWPPP Practices for Maryland Sites