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Regulatory
In Pennsylvania, the last word on stormwater management can be found in the local ordinances established by the Commonwealth’s 2,566 individual municipalities. Land development activities which alter the character of landscape are subject to state and federal laws and permit requirements, but it is the local zoning and ordinances enforcing these regulations that will ultimately make the difference in minimizing the adverse effects of stormwater runoff. 
MUNICIPALITIES
The Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code (MPC) enables comprehensive planning, zoning, and subdivision/land development regulation on the municipal, county, and regional levels—and many local governments use it to implement specific regulations for land development and stormwater management. The key is ensuring local regulations meet federal and state requirements, while incorporating provisions to meet a municipality’s specific needs and watershed conditions...
Get the basics on MS4 requirements >>
DEVELOPERS
Besides being subject to planning, land development, zoning, and building permit requirements, your project must also be in synch with local stormwater management ordinances, which usually means approval of a stormwater management plan before any earth disturbance begins. In addition, if your project involves a land area of 1 acre or more, a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permit for Discharges Associated with Construction Activities is likely required...
What you need to know about NPDES permits >>
ENGINEERS
Planning stormwater programs is often perceived as a time consuming and costly part of the development process, but getting it right can speed permit applications, save construction costs, and add value to a wide range of projects. Success starts with understanding local requirements and ensuring development plans achieve the Commonwealth’s standards for comprehensive stormwater management...
What are Pennsylvania’s Performance Standards? >>
