Virginia SWPPP inspection requirements
- Rain trigger
- 0.25″ storm event
- Post-rain deadline
- Within 48 hours
- Routine inspections
- Every 7 days
- Permit
- VAR10 Construction General Permit
- Agency
- Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (VA DEQ)
Verify against your permit. These values reflect the most common reading of Virginia's program; permits change and projects vary. The official permit text from VA DEQ controls.
How Virginia handles construction stormwater
Construction sites in Virginia disturbing one acre or more need coverage under the VAR10 Construction General Permit, administered by Virginia Department of Environmental Quality. Virginia uses business-day cadences: inspections at least once every 4-5 business days, and within 48 hours of a measurable storm event. RLD (Responsible Land Disturber) certification required on-site.
Inspector qualifications
A qualified person designated by the operator. Check the current state permit for certification requirements.
Official sources
Common questions
What triggers a SWPPP inspection in Virginia?
Under the VAR10 Construction General Permit, a storm event of 0.25 inches or more triggers a post-storm inspection, generally due within 48 hours (non-work days typically extend to the next work day; check your permit). Routine inspections run every 7 days.
Who can perform SWPPP inspections in Virginia?
A qualified person designated by the operator. Check the current state permit for certification requirements.
Who administers the construction stormwater program in Virginia?
Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (VA DEQ) administers the NPDES construction stormwater program in Virginia under the VAR10 Construction General Permit.
What are the penalties for SWPPP violations in Virginia?
Federal Clean Water Act civil penalties can reach $68,445 per day per violation, and VA DEQ can issue administrative orders and state penalties on top. Missing rain-triggered inspections is among the most commonly cited violations in stormwater audits.
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