Georgia Stormwater Regulations

State Regulatory Overview

Georgia's stormwater regulatory framework involves three primary agencies. The Georgia Environmental Protection Division (GA EPD) administers NPDES stormwater permits, enforces water quality standards, and conducts compliance inspections. The Georgia Soil and Water Conservation Commission (GSWCC) oversees the erosion and sediment control certification program that's required for all construction projects disturbing one acre or more.

In Georgia's 6 coastal counties, the Coastal Resources Division (CRD) of the Department of Natural Resources adds additional permitting through the Coastal Marshlands Protection Act (CMPA) and Shore Protection Act (SPA). These laws protect tidal marshlands and shoreline areas from development impacts and require separate permits for projects that may affect these resources.

Georgia's approach to stormwater is notable for its certification requirement. Unlike most states where any qualified contractor can oversee erosion controls, Georgia mandates that specific GSWCC-certified individuals be identified by name in permit applications. This creates a direct accountability chain that's unique to the state.

County Coverage

AUE Land services all 6 of Georgia's coastal counties, from the Savannah metro area south to the Florida border.

Key State Laws

• Georgia Water Quality Control Act (O.C.G.A. 12-5) - The foundation of Georgia's water pollution control program. Authorizes GA EPD to issue NPDES permits, set water quality standards, and impose penalties up to $50,000 per day per violation.
• Georgia Erosion and Sedimentation Act (O.C.G.A. 12-7) - Requires erosion and sediment control plans for land-disturbing activities. Mandates GSWCC-certified personnel on all sites disturbing one acre or more. Local issuing authorities (cities and counties) review and approve plans.
• Coastal Marshlands Protection Act (O.C.G.A. 12-5-280) - Protects all tidal marshlands within the 6 coastal counties. Requires a Coastal Marshlands Protection Committee permit for any project that could alter, dredge, fill, or otherwise impact marshland.
• Shore Protection Act (O.C.G.A. 12-5-230) - Regulates development within the dynamic dune field and shore protection zone along Georgia's barrier islands and mainland coastline. Requires permits and imposes construction setbacks.
• Georgia Stormwater Management Manual (Blue Book) - The technical reference document for stormwater design standards. While not a law itself, it's the accepted design standard referenced by most local stormwater ordinances across the state.

Permit Types

Construction General Permits (CGP) - GAR100001 through GAR100003

Georgia uses a tiered CGP system based on project size. GAR100001 covers projects disturbing 1 to 5 acres, GAR100002 covers 5 to 50 acres, and GAR100003 covers projects over 50 acres. All three require a Notice of Intent, an approved erosion and sediment control plan, and GSWCC-certified personnel on site. The current permits expire July 31, 2028.

MS4 Permits

Georgia's MS4 permits follow the federal two-phase structure. Chatham County (Savannah) holds a Phase I permit, while most other urbanized areas in the coastal region hold Phase II permits. The current Phase II MS4 permit expires December 5, 2027. MS4 permittees must implement stormwater management programs and enforce local ordinances that require property owners to maintain BMPs.

Industrial Stormwater Permits

Industrial facilities with stormwater exposure must obtain coverage under GA EPD's Multi-Sector General Permit. The current industrial general permit expires May 31, 2027. Facilities must develop stormwater pollution prevention plans, conduct regular sampling, and submit discharge monitoring reports.

Frequently Asked Questions