Wisconsin SWPPP inspection requirements
- Rain trigger
- 0.5″ storm event
- Post-rain deadline
- Within 24 hours (weekends count)
- Routine inspections
- Every 7 days
- Permit
- WPDES Construction Site Storm Water General Permit (WI-S067831-6)
- Agency
- Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR)
How Wisconsin handles construction stormwater
Construction sites in Wisconsin disturbing one acre or more need coverage under the WPDES Construction Site Storm Water General Permit (WI-S067831-6), administered by Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. Weekly inspections AND within 24 hours of a 0.5″ rainfall (both required; calendar-based). Repairs are due within 24 hours of an inspection identifying the need. The permit (effective October 1, 2021) expires September 30, 2026 and continues automatically under NR 205.08(9) if not reissued — re-verify at reissuance. The landowner is the responsible permittee; per-NOI coverage caps at 3 years unless renewed.
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 Wisconsin?
Under the WPDES Construction Site Storm Water General Permit (WI-S067831-6), a storm event of 0.5 inches or more triggers a post-storm inspection, within 24 hours (weekends count). Routine inspections: every 7 days.
Who can perform SWPPP inspections in Wisconsin?
A qualified person designated by the operator. Check the current state permit for certification requirements.
Who administers the construction stormwater program in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) administers the NPDES construction stormwater program in Wisconsin under the WPDES Construction Site Storm Water General Permit (WI-S067831-6).
What are the penalties for SWPPP violations in Wisconsin?
Federal Clean Water Act civil penalties can reach $68,445 per day per violation, and WDNR 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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