How to Prepare for a State Stormwater Compliance Inspection
What is a state stormwater inspection? State stormwater compliance inspections are carried out by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) for construction projects that fall under the Colorado Discharge Permit System (CDPS). These inspections are designed to verify compliance with state and federal stormwater requirements by reviewing documentation, evaluating on-site conditions, and assessing the effectiveness of Stormwater Management Plans (SWMPs) and control measures.
Is your construction project ready for a state stormwater inspection? In Colorado, state inspectors typically only give 24 hours notice before arriving on-site. Short-notice state inspections can catch teams off guard and create unnecessary stress. To make it easier, we’ve compiled helpful information to ensure your project remains inspection-ready and created a free printable checklist for your convenience.
- Keep Your SWMP Complete and Current
Your Stormwater Management Plan (SWMP) is the foundation of compliance. State inspectors will check that it’s:
- Up to date and reflects current site conditions and best management practices (BMPs)
- Easily accessible on-site or electronically
- Includes a narrative, site map(s), BMP details, inspection logs, and maintenance records
- Ensure BMPs Are Installed and Maintained
Inspectors will walk your site to verify that Best Management Practices (BMPs) are properly installed and functioning effectively. Main areas of concern include:
- Erosion controls (silt fence, wattles, check dams)
- Sediment controls (inlet protection, sediment basins)
- Good housekeeping (waste management, material storage, concrete washout areas)
Routinely check for signs of failure like undercut fencing, sediment buildup, or damaged wattles and document accordingly.
- Stay on Top of Inspections and Corrective Actions
Under the CDPS permit, you must perform routine inspections every 7 or 14 days and within 24 hours of a storm event that causes runoff (jurisdiction depending).
Important things to ensure:
- All inspection forms are complete and signed by a qualified stormwater inspector/manager (QSM)
- Any deficiencies noted have documented corrective actions and completion dates within the timeframe of the permit requirements
- Updates and changes are reflected in the SWMP narrative and maps
- Confirm Site Stabilization and Final Steps
If your project is nearing completion, ensure that disturbed areas are stabilized with vegetation or other measures. To terminate permit coverage, you’ll need to show 70% vegetative coverage or equivalent stabilization as defined by CDPHE.
- Organize Your Documentation
Before an inspection, make sure you can quickly access all relevant documentation:
- CDPS permit coverage and fact sheet
- SWMP and all updates
- Inspection and maintenance records
- Corrective action logs
- Training documentation
A well-organized binder (physical or digital) demonstrates diligence and will make the inspection much smoother.
State stormwater compliance inspections don’t have to be intimidating — if you keep your SWMP current, maintain your BMPs, and document your work, you will be well prepared. A proactive approach not only keeps your project compliant with CDPHE requirements but also protects Colorado’s waterways from construction impacts. If you need support maintaining compliance or preparing for inspections, our team is here to help.
