98-8060. Final National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) General Permit for Storm Water Discharges From Construction Activities  

  • [Federal Register Volume 63, Number 61 (Tuesday, March 31, 1998)]
    [Notices]
    [Pages 15622-15671]
    From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
    [FR Doc No: 98-8060]
    
    
    
    [[Page 15621]]
    
    _______________________________________________________________________
    
    Part III
    
    
    
    
    
    Environmental Protection Agency
    
    
    
    
    
    _______________________________________________________________________
    
    
    
    Final National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) General 
    Permit for Storm Water Discharges From Construction Activities; Notice
    
    Federal Register / Vol. 63, No. 61 / Tuesday, March 31, 1998 / 
    Notices
    
    [[Page 15622]]
    
    
    
    ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
    
    [FRL-5987-2]
    
    
    Final National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) 
    General Permit for Storm Water Discharges From Construction Activities
    
    AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
    
    ACTION: Notice of final NPDES general permit reissuance for storm water 
    discharges from construction activities.
    
    -----------------------------------------------------------------------
    
    SUMMARY: Section 405 of the Water Quality Act of 1987 (WQA) added 
    section 402(p) of the Clean Water Act (CWA) which requires the 
    Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to develop a phased approach to 
    regulating storm water discharges under the National Pollutant 
    Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) program. EPA published a final 
    regulation on November 16, 1990, (55 FR 47990) establishing permit 
    application requirements for storm water discharges associated with 
    industrial activity and for discharges from municipal separate storm 
    sewer systems serving a population of 100,000 or more. In the permit 
    application regulations, EPA defined the term ``storm water discharge 
    associated with industrial activity'' in a comprehensive manner to 
    cover a wide variety of facilities. This definition greatly expanded 
    the number of industrial facilities subject to the NPDES program. 
    Construction activities that disturb at least five acres of land and 
    have point source discharges to waters of the U.S. are defined as an 
    ``industrial activity,'' 40 CFR 122.26(b)(14)(x).
        The following provides notice for a final NPDES general permit, 
    accompanying response to comments, and fact sheets for storm water 
    discharges from construction activities in the following areas of 
    Region 4:
    
    Indian Country Lands within the State of Alabama
    The State of Florida
    Indian Country Lands within the State of Florida
    Indian Country Lands within the State of Mississippi
    Indian Country Lands within the State of North Carolina
    
    ADDRESSES: Notices of Intent (NOIs) submitted in accordance with this 
    permit to receive coverage under this permit and Notices of Termination 
    (NOTs) to terminate coverage under this permit must be sent to Storm 
    Water Notice of Intent (4203), 401 M Street, SW, Washington, DC 20460. 
    The complete administrative record is available from the U.S. 
    Environmental Protection Agency, Region 4, Freedom of Information 
    Officer, 61 Forsyth St. SW., Atlanta, GA 30303. A reasonable fee may be 
    charged for copying.
    
    DATES: This general permit shall be effective on April 3, 1998. 
    Deadlines for submittal of NOIs are provided in Part II.A. of today's 
    permit.
    
    FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mr. Floyd Wellborn, telephone number 
    (404) 562-9296, or Ms. Gina Fonzi, telephone number (404) 562-9301, or 
    at the following address: United States Environmental Protection 
    Agency, Region 4, Water Management Division, Surface Water Permits 
    Section, Atlanta Federal Center, 61 Forsyth Street S.W., Atlanta, GA 
    30303.
    
    Table of Contents.
    
    I. Introduction
    II. Quick Answers to Common Questions
    III. Coverage of General Permit
    IV. Summary of Options for Controlling Pollutants
    V. Changes from the April 16, 1997 Proposed Permit (amended June 27. 
    1997)
    VI. Summary of Permit Conditions
    VII. Cost Estimates
    VIII. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act
    IX. Paperwork Reduction Act
    X. Regulatory Flexibility Act
    XI. Responses to Comments
    XII. Section 401 Certification
    XIII. Official Signatures
    
    I. Introduction
    
        In 1972, the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (also referred to 
    as the Clean Water Act (CWA)) was amended to provide that the discharge 
    of any pollutants to waters of the Untied States from any point source 
    is unlawful, except if the discharge is in compliance with a National 
    Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NDPES) permit. In 1987, section 
    402(p) was added to the CWA to establish a comprehensive framework for 
    addressing storm water discharges under the NPDES program. Section 
    402(p)(4) of the CWA clarifies the requirements for EPA to issue NPDES 
    permits for storm water discharges associated with industrial activity. 
    On November 16, 1990 (55 FR 47990), EPA published final regulations 
    which define the term ``storm water discharge associated with 
    industrial activity.''
        In 1992, EPA issued a general permit for discharges of storm water 
    from construction activities ``associated with industrial activity'' to 
    reduce the administrative burden of issuing an individual NDPES permit 
    to each construction activity.
    
    II. Quick Answers to Common Questions
    
        In this section, EPA provides answers to some of the more common 
    questions on the construction storm water permitting program. It is 
    intended to help you get started in understanding the permit. Be aware 
    these answers are fairly broad and may not take into account all 
    scenarios possible at construction sites.
    
    How Do I Know If I Need a Permit?
    
        You need a storm water permit if you can be considered an 
    ``operator'' of the construction activity that would result in the 
    ``discharge of storm water associated with construction activity.'' You 
    must become a permittee if you meet either of the following two 
    criteria:
         You have operational control of construction project plans 
    and specifications, including the ability to make modifications to 
    those plans and specifications; or
         You have day-to-day operational control of those 
    activities at a project which are necessary to ensure compliance with a 
    storm water pollution prevention plan (SWPPP) for the site or other 
    permit conditions (e.g., you are authorized to direct workers at a site 
    to carry out activities required by the SWPPP or comply with other 
    permit conditions).
        There may be more than one party at a site performing the tasks 
    relating to ``operational control'' as defined above. Depending on the 
    site and the relationship between the parties (e.g., owner, developer), 
    there can either be a single party acting as site operator and 
    consequently be responsible for obtaining permit coverage, or there can 
    be two or more operators with all needing permit coverage. The 
    following are three general operator scenarios (variations on any of 
    the three are possible as the number of ``owners'' and contractors 
    increases):
         Owner as sole permittee. The property owner designs the 
    structures for the site, develops and implements the SWPPP, and serves 
    as general contractor (or has an on-site representative with full 
    authority to direct day-to-day operations). He may be the only party 
    that needs a permit, in which case everyone else on the site may be 
    considered subcontractors and not need permit coverage.
         Contractor as sole permittee. The property owner hires a 
    construction company to design the project, prepare the SWPPP, and 
    supervise implementation of the plan and compliance with the permit 
    (e.g., a ``turnkey'' project). Here, the contractor
    
    [[Page 15623]]
    
    would be the only party needing a permit. It is under this scenario 
    that an individual having a personal residence built for his own use 
    (e.g., not those to be sold for profit or used as rental property) 
    would not be considered an operator. EPA believes that the general 
    contractor, being a professional in the building industry, should be 
    the entity rather than the individual who is better equipped to meet 
    the requirements of both applying for permit coverage and developing 
    and properly implementing a SWPPP. However, individuals would meet the 
    definition of ``operator'' and require permit coverage in instances 
    where they perform general contracting duties for construction of their 
    personal residences.
         Owner and contractor as co-permittees. The owner retains 
    control over any changes to site plans, SWPPPs, or storm water 
    conveyance or control designs; but the contractor is responsible for 
    overseeing actual earth disturbing activities and daily implementation 
    of SWPPP and other permit conditions. In this case, both parties may 
    need coverage.
        However, you are probably not an operator and subsequently do not 
    need permit coverage if:
         You are a subcontractor hired by, and under the 
    supervision of, the owner or a general contractor (i.e., if the 
    contractor directs your activities on-site, you probably are not an 
    operator); or
         your activities on site result in earth disturbance and 
    you are not legally a subcontractor, but a SWPPP specifically 
    identifies someone other than you (or your subcontractor) as the party 
    having operational control to address the impacts your activities may 
    have on storm water quality (i.e., another operator has assumed 
    responsibility for the impacts of your construction activities).
        In addition, for purposes of this permit and determining who is an 
    operator, ``owner'' refers to the party that owns the structure being 
    built. Ownership of the land where construction is occurring does not 
    necessarily imply the property owner is an operator (e.g., a landowner 
    whose property is being disturbed by construction of a gas pipeline). 
    Likewise, if the erection of a structure has been contracted for, but 
    possession of the title or lease to the land or structure is not to 
    occur until after construction, the would-be owner may not be 
    considered an operator (e.g., having a house built by a residential 
    homebuilder).
    
    My Project Will Disturb Less Than Five Acres, But It May Be Part of a 
    ``Larger Common Plan of Development or Sale.'' How Can I Tell and What 
    Must I Do?
    
        If your smaller project is part of a larger common plan of 
    development or sale that collectively will disturb five or more acres 
    (e.g., you are building on six half-acre residential lots in a 10-acre 
    development or are putting in a parking lot in a large retail center) 
    you need permit coverage. The ``plan'' in a common plan of development 
    or sale is broadly defined as any announcement or piece of 
    documentation (including a sign, public notice or hearing, sales pitch, 
    advertisement, drawing, permit application, zoning request, computer 
    design, etc.) or physical demarcation (including boundary signs, lot 
    stakes, surveyor markings, etc.) indicating construction activities may 
    occur on a specific plot. You must still meet the definition of 
    operator in order to be required to get permit coverage, regardless of 
    the acreage you personally disturb. As a subcontractor, it is unlikely 
    you would need a permit.
        For some situations where less than five acres of the original 
    common plan of development remain undeveloped, a permit may not be 
    needed for the construction projects ``filling in'' the last parts of 
    the common plan of development. A case in which a permit would not be 
    needed is where several empty lots totaling less than five acres remain 
    after the rest of the project had been completed, providing 
    stabilization had also been completed for the entire project. However, 
    if the total area of all the undeveloped lots in the original common 
    plan of development was more than five acres, a permit would be needed.
    
    When Can You Consider Future Construction on a Property To Be Part of a 
    Separate Plan of Development or Sale?
    
        In many cases, a common plan of development or sale consists of 
    many small construction projects that collectively add up to five (5) 
    or more acres of total disturbed land. For example, an original common 
    plan of development for a residential subdivision might lay out the 
    streets, house lots, and areas for parks, schools and commercial 
    development that the developer plans to build or sell to others for 
    development. All these areas would remain part of the common plan of 
    development or sale until the intended construction occurs. After this 
    initial plan is completed for a particular parcel, any subsequent 
    development or redevelopment of that parcel would be regarded as a new 
    plan of development, and would then be subject to the five-acre cutoff 
    for storm water permitting.
    
    What Must I Do To Satisfy the Permit Eligibility Requirements Related 
    to Endangered Species?
    
        In order to be eligible for this permit, you must follow the 
    procedures and examples found in Appendix C for the protection of 
    endangered species. You cannot submit your NOI until you are able to 
    certify your eligibility for the permit. Enough lead time should be 
    built into your project schedule to accomplish these procedures. If 
    another operator has certified eligibility for the project (or at least 
    the portion of the project you will be working on) in his NOI, you will 
    usually be able to rely on his certification of project eligibility and 
    not have to repeat the process. EPA created this ``coat tail'' 
    eligibility option for protection of endangered species to allow the 
    site developer/owner to obtain up-front ``clearance'' for a project, 
    thereby avoiding duplication of effort by his contractors and 
    unnecessary delays in construction.
    
    What Does the Permit Require Regarding Historic Preservation?
    
        In order to be eligible for this permit, you must not adversely 
    affect a property that is listed or is eligible for listing in the 
    National Historic Register maintained by the Secretary of the Interior. 
    You cannot submit your NOI until you are able to certify your 
    eligibility for the permit. Enough lead time should be built into your 
    project schedule to accomplish these procedures. If another operator 
    has certified eligibility for the project (or at least the portion of 
    the project you will be working on) in his NOI, you will usually be 
    able to rely on his certification of project eligibility and not have 
    to repeat the process. EPA created this ``coat tail'' eligibility 
    option for protection of historic places to allow the site developer/
    owner to obtain up-front ``clearance'' for a project, thereby avoiding 
    duplication of effort by his contractors and unnecessary delays in 
    construction.
    
    How Many Notices of Intent (NOIs) Must I Submit? Where and When Are 
    They Sent?
    
        You only need to submit one NOI to cover all activities on any one 
    common plan of development or sale. The site map you develop for the 
    storm water pollution prevention plan identifies which parts of the 
    overall project are under your control. For example, if you are a 
    homebuilder in a residential development, you need submit only one
    
    [[Page 15624]]
    
    NOI to cover all your lots, even if they are on opposite sides of the 
    development.
        The NOI must be postmarked two days before you begin work on site. 
    The address for submitting NOIs is found in the instruction portion of 
    the NOI form and in Part II.C. of the Construction General Permit 
    (CGP).
    
    Do I Have Flexibility in Preparing the Storm Water Pollution Prevention 
    Plan (SWPPP) and Selecting Best Management Practices (BMPs) for My 
    Site?
    
        Storm water pollution prevention plan requirements were designed to 
    allow maximum flexibility to develop the needed storm water controls 
    based on the specifics of the site. Some of the factors you might 
    consider include: More stringent local development requirements and/or 
    building codes; precipitation patterns for the area at the time the 
    project will be underway; soil types; slopes; layout of structures for 
    the site; sensitivity of nearby water bodies; safety concerns of the 
    storm water controls (e.g., potential hazards of water in storm water 
    retention ponds to the safety of children; the potential of drawing 
    birds to retention ponds and the hazards they pose to aircraft); and 
    coordination with other site operators.
    
    Must Every Permittee Have His Own Separate SWPPP or Is a Joint Plan 
    Allowed?
    
        The only requirement is that there be at least one SWPPP for a site 
    which incorporates the required elements for all operators, but there 
    can be separate plans if individual permittees so desire. EPA 
    encourages permittees to explore possible cost savings by having a 
    joint SWPPP for several operators. For example, the prime developer 
    could assume the inspection responsibilities for the entire site, while 
    each homebuilder shares in the installation and maintenance of sediment 
    traps serving common areas.
    
    If a Project Will not Be Completed Before This Permit Expires, How Can 
    I Keep Permit Coverage?
    
        If the permit is reissued or replaced with a new one before the 
    current one expires, you will need to comply with whatever conditions 
    the new permit requires in order to transition coverage from the old 
    permit. This usually includes submitting a new NOI. If the permit 
    expires before a replacement permit can be issued, the permit will be 
    administratively ``continued.'' You will be required to submit an NOI 
    for coverage under the continued permit, until the earliest of:
         The permit being reissued or replaced;
         Submittal of a Notice of Termination (NOT);
         Issuance of an individual permit for your activity; or
         The Director issues a formal decision not to reissue the 
    permit, at which time you must seek coverage under an alternative 
    permit.
    
    When Can I Terminate Permit Coverage? Can I Terminate Coverage (i.e., 
    Liability for Permit Compliance) Before the Entire Project Is Finished?
    
        You can submit an NOT for your portion of a site providing: (1) You 
    have achieved final stabilization of the portion of the site for which 
    you are a permittee (including, if applicable, returning agricultural 
    land to its pre-construction agricultural use); (2) another operator/
    permittee has assumed control according to Part VI.G.2.c. of the permit 
    over all areas of the site that have not been finally stabilized which 
    you were responsible for (for example, a developer can pass permit 
    responsibility for lots in a subdivision to the homebuilder who 
    purchases those lots, providing the homebuilder has filed his own NOI); 
    or (3) for residential construction only, you have completed temporary 
    stabilization and the residence has been transferred to the homeowner.
    
    III. Coverage of General Permit
    
        Section 402(p) of the Clean Water Act (CWA) clarifies that storm 
    water discharges associated with industrial activity to waters of the 
    United States must be authorized by an NPDES permit. On November 16, 
    1990, EPA published regulations under the NPDES program which defined 
    the term ``storm water discharge associated with industrial activity'' 
    to include storm water discharges from construction activities 
    (including clearing, grading, and excavation activities) that result in 
    the disturbance of five or more acres of total land area, including 
    areas that are part of a larger common plan of development or sale (40 
    CFR 122.26(b)(14)(x)) 1. The term ``storm water discharge 
    from construction activities'' will be used in this document to refer 
    to storm water discharges from construction sites that meet the 
    definition of a storm water discharge associated with industrial 
    activity.
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        \1\ On June 4, 1992, the United States Court of Appeals for the 
    Ninth Circuit remanded the exemption for construction sites of less 
    than five acres to the EPA for further rulemaking (Natural Resources 
    Defense Council v. EPA, Nos. 90-70671 and 91-70200, slip op. at 6217 
    (9th Cir. June 4, 1992).
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        This general permit may authorize storm water discharges from 
    existing construction sites (facilities where construction activities 
    began before the effective date of this permit, and final stabilization 
    is to occur after the effective date of this permit) and new 
    construction sites. New construction sites are those facilities where 
    disturbances associated construction activities commence after the 
    effective date of this permit. To obtain authorization under today's 
    permit, a discharger must submit a complete NOI and comply with the 
    terms of the permit. The terms of the permit, including the 
    requirements for submitting an NOI, are discussed in more detail below.
        The following discharges are not authorized by this final general 
    permit:
         Storm water discharges associated with industrial activity 
    that originate from the site after construction activities have been 
    completed and the site has undergone final stabilization;
         Non-storm water discharges (except certain non-storm water 
    discharges specifically listed in today's general permit). However, 
    today's permit can authorize storm water discharges from construction 
    activities where such discharges are mixed with non-storm water 
    discharges that are authorized by a different NPDES permit;
         Storm water discharges from construction sites that are 
    covered by an existing NPDES individual or general permit. However, 
    storm water discharges associated with industrial activity from a 
    construction site that are authorized by an existing permit may be 
    authorized by today's general permit after the existing permit expires, 
    provided the expired permit did not establish numeric limitations for 
    such discharges;
         Storm water discharges from construction sites that the 
    Director has determined to be or may reasonably be expected to be 
    contributing to a violation of a water quality standard; and
         Storm water discharges from construction sites if the 
    discharges are likely to adversely affect a listed endangered or 
    threatened species or a species that is proposed to be listed as 
    endangered or threatened or its critical habitat.
    
    IV. Summary of Options for Controlling Pollutants
    
        Most controls for construction activities can be categorized into 
    two groups: (1) Sediment and erosion controls; and (2) storm water
    
    [[Page 15625]]
    
    management measures. Sediment and erosion controls generally address 
    pollutants in storm water generated from the site during the time when 
    construction activities are occurring. Storm water management measures 
    generally are installed during and before competition of the 
    construction process, but primarily result in reductions of pollutants 
    in storm water discharged from the site after the construction has been 
    completed. Additional measures include housekeeping best management 
    practices.
    
    A. Sediment and Erosion Controls
    
        Erosion controls provide the first line of defense in preventing 
    offsite sediment movement and are designed to prevent erosion through 
    protection and preservation of soils. Sediment controls are designed to 
    remove sediment from runoff before the runoff is discharged from the 
    site. Sediment and erosion controls can be further divided into two 
    major classes of controls: Stabilization practices and structural 
    practices. Major types of sediment and erosion practices are summarized 
    below. A more complete description of these practices is given in 
    ``Florida Development Manual: A Guide to Sound Land and Water 
    Management'' or in ``Storm Water Management for Construction 
    Activities: Developing Pollution Prevention Plans and Best Management 
    Practices,'' U.S. EPA, 1992.
    1. Sediment and Erosion Controls: Stabilization Practices
        Stabilization, as discussed here, refers to covering or maintaining 
    an existing cover over soils. The cover may be vegetation, such as 
    grass, trees, vines, or shrubs. Stabilization measures can also include 
    nonvegetative controls such as geotextiles, riprap, or gabions (wire 
    mesh boxes filed with rock). Mulches, such as straw or bark, are most 
    effective when used in conjunction with establishing vegetation, but 
    can be used without vegetation. Stabilization of exposed and denuded 
    soils is one of the most important factors in minimizing erosion while 
    construction activities occur. A vegetation cover reduces the erosion 
    potential of a site by absorbing the kinetic energy of raindrops that 
    would otherwise disturb unprotected soil; intercepting water so that it 
    infiltrates into the ground instead of running off the surface; and 
    slowing the velocity of runoff, thereby promoting deposition of 
    sediment in the runoff. Stabilization measures are often the most 
    important measures taken to prevent offsite sediment movement and can 
    provide large reductions suspended sediment levels in discharges and 
    receiving waters.2 Examples of stabilization measures are 
    summarized below.
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        \2\ ``Performance of Current Sediment Control Measures at 
    Maryland Construction Sites'', January 1990, Metropolitan Washington 
    Council of Governments.
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        a. Temporary Seeding. Temporary seeding provides for temporary 
    stabilization by establishing vegetation at areas of the site where 
    activities will temporarily cease until later in the construction 
    project. Without temporary stabilization, soils at these areas are 
    exposed to precipitation for an extended time period, even though work 
    is not occurring on these areas. Temporary seeding practices have been 
    found to be up to 95 percent effective in reducing erosion.3
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        \3\ ``Guides for Erosion and Sediment Control in California,'' 
    USDA, Soil Conservation Service, Davis CA, Revised 1985.
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        b. Permanent Seeding. Permanent seeding involves establishing a 
    sustainable ground cover at a site. Permanent seeding stabilizes the 
    soil to reduce sediment in runoff from the site by controlling erosion 
    and is typically required at most sites for aesthetic reasons.
        c. Mulching. Mulching is typically conducted as part of permanent 
    and temporary seeding practices. Where temporary and permanent seeding 
    is not feasible, exposed soils can be stabilized by applying plant 
    residues or other suitable materials to the soil surface. Although 
    generally not as effective as seeding practices, mulching by itself, 
    does provide some erosion control. Mulching in conjunction with seeding 
    provides erosion protection prior to the onset of vegetation growth. In 
    addition, mulching protects seeding activities, providing a higher 
    likelihood of successful establishment of vegetation. To maintain 
    optimum effectiveness, mulches must be anchored to resist wind 
    displacement.
        d. Sod Stabilization. Sod stabilization involves establishing long-
    term stands of grass with sod on exposed surfaces. When installed and 
    maintained properly, sodding can be more than 99 percent effective in 
    reducing erosion,4 making it the most effective vegetation 
    practice available. The cost of sod stabilization (relative to other 
    vegetative controls) typically limits its use to exposed soils where a 
    quick vegetative cover is desired and sites which can be maintained 
    with ground equipment. In addition, sod is sensitive to climate and may 
    require intensive watering and fertilization.
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        \4\ ``Guides for Erosion and Sediment Control in California'', 
    USDA--Soil Conservation Service, Davis CA, Revised 1985.
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        e. Vegetative Buffer Strips. Vegetative buffer strips are preserved 
    or planted strips of vegetation at the top and bottom of a slope, 
    outlining property boundaries, or adjacent to receiving waters such as 
    streams or wetlands. Vegetative buffer strips can slow runoff flows at 
    critical areas, decreasing erosion and allowing sediment deposition.
        f. Protection of Trees. This practice involves preserving and 
    protecting selected trees that exist on the site prior to development. 
    Mature trees provide extensive canopy and root systems which help to 
    hold soil in place. Shade trees also keep soil from drying rapidly and 
    becoming susceptible to erosion. Measures taken to protect trees can 
    vary significantly, from simple measures such as installing tree 
    fencing around the drip line and installing tree armoring, to more 
    complex measures such as building retaining walls and tree wells.
    2. Sediment and Erosion Controls: Structural Practices
        Structural practices involve the installation of devices to divert 
    flow, store flow, or limit runoff. Structural practices have several 
    objectives. First, structural practices can be designed to prevent 
    water from crossing disturbed areas where sediment may be removed. This 
    involves diverting runoff from undisturbed upslope areas through use of 
    earth dikes, temporary swales, perimeter dike/swales, or diversions to 
    stable areas. A second objective of structural practices can be to 
    remove sediment from site runoff before the runoff leaves the site. 
    Approaches to removing sediment from site runoff include diverting 
    flows to a trapping or storage device or filtering diffuse flow through 
    silt fences before it leaves the site. All structural practices require 
    proper maintenance (removal of sediment) to remain functional.
        a. Earth Dike. Earth dikes are temporary berms or ridges of 
    compacted soil that channel water to a desired location. Earth dikes 
    should be stabilized with vegetation.
        b. Silt Fence. Silt fences are a barrier of geotextile fabric 
    (filter cloth) used to intercept sediment in diffuse runoff. They must 
    be carefully maintained to ensure structural stability and to remove 
    excess sediment.
        c. Drainage Swales. A drainage swale is a drainage channel lined 
    with grass, riprap, asphalt, concrete, or other materials. Drainage 
    swales are installed to convey runoff without causing erosion.
    
    [[Page 15626]]
    
        d. Sediment Traps. Sediment traps can be installed in a drainage 
    way, at a storm drain inlet, or other points of discharge from a 
    disturbed area.
        e. Check Dams. Check dams are small temporary dams constructed 
    across a swale or drainage ditch to reduce the velocity of runoff 
    flows, thereby reducing erosion of the swale or ditch. Check dams 
    should not be used in a live stream. Check dams reduce the need for 
    more stringent erosion control practices in the swale due to the 
    decreased velocity and energy of runoff.
        f. Level Spreader. Level spreaders are outlets for dikes and 
    diversions consisting of an excavated depression constructed at zero 
    grade across a slope. Level spreaders convert concentrated runoff into 
    diffuse runoff and release it onto areas stabilized by existing 
    vegetation.
        g. Subsurface Drain. Subsurface drains transport water to an area 
    where the water can be managed effectively. Drains can be made of tile, 
    pipe, or tubing.
        h. Pipe Slope Drain. A pipe slope drain is a temporary structure 
    placed from the top of a slope to the bottom of a slope to convey 
    surface runoff down slopes without causing erosion.
        i. Temporary Storm Drain Diversion. Temporary storm drain 
    diversions are used to re-direct flow in a storm drain to discharge 
    into a sediment trapping device.
        j. Storm Drain Inlet Protection. Storm drain inlet protection can 
    be provided by a sediment filter or an excavated impounding area around 
    a storm drain inlet. These devices prevent sediment from entering storm 
    drainage systems prior to permanent stabilization of the disturbed 
    area.
        k. Rock Outlet Protection. Rock protection placed at the outlet end 
    of culverts or channels can reduce the depth, velocity, and energy of 
    water so that the flow will not erode the receiving downstream reach.
        l. Other Controls. Other controls include temporary sediment 
    basins, sump pits, entrance stabilization measures, waterway crossings, 
    and wind breaks.
    
    B. Storm Water Management Measures
    
        Storm water management measures are installed during and prior to 
    completion of the construction process, but primarily result in 
    reductions of pollutants in storm water discharged from the site after 
    the construction has been completed. Construction activities often 
    result in significant changes in land use. Such changes typically 
    involve an increase in the overall imperviousness of the site, which 
    can result in dramatic changes to the runoff patterns of a site. As the 
    amount within a drainage area increases, the amount of pollutants 
    carried by the runoff increases. In addition, activities such as 
    automobile travel on roads can result in higher pollutant 
    concentrations in runoff compared to preconstruction levels. 
    Traditional storm water management controls attempt to limit the 
    increases in the amount of runoff and the amount of pollutants 
    discharged from a site associated with the change in land use.
        Major classes of storm water management measures include 
    infiltration of runoff onsite; flow attenuation by vegetation or 
    natural depressions; outfall velocity dissipation devices; storm water 
    retention structures and artificial wetlands; and storm water detention 
    structures. For many sites, a combination of these controls may be 
    appropriate. A summary of storm water management controls is provided 
    below. A more complete description of storm water management controls 
    is found in ``Florida Development Manual: A Guide to Sound Land and 
    Water Management'' or in ``Storm Water Management for Construction 
    Activities: Developing Pollution Prevention Plans and Best Management 
    Practices,'' U.S. EPA, 1992, and ``A Current Assessment of Urban Best 
    Management Practices'' Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments, 
    March 1992.
    1. Onsite Infiltration
        A variety of infiltration technologies, including infiltration 
    trenches and infiltration basins, can reduce the volume and pollutant 
    loadings of storm water discharges from a site. Infiltration devices 
    tend to mitigate changes to predevelopment hydrologic conditions. 
    Properly designed and installed infiltration devices can reduce peak 
    discharges, provide ground water recharge, augment low flow conditions 
    of receiving streams, reduce storm water discharge volumes and 
    pollutant loads, and protect downstream channels from erosion. 
    Infiltration devices are a feasible option where soils are permeable 
    and the water table and bedrock are well below the surface. 
    Infiltration basins can also be used as sediment basins during 
    construction.5 Infiltration trenches can be more easily 
    placed into under-utilized areas of a development and can be used for 
    small sites and infill developments. However, trenches may require 
    regular maintenance to prevent clogs, particularly where grass inlets 
    or other pollutant removing inlets are not used. In some situations, 
    such as low density areas of parking lots, porous pavement can provide 
    for infiltration.
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        \5\ ``Controlling Urban Runoff: A Practical Manual for Planning 
    and Designing Urban BMPs'', July, 1987, Metropolitan Washington 
    Council of Governments.
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
    2. Flow Attenuation by Vegetation or Natural Depressions
        Flow attenuation provided by vegetation or natural depressions can 
    provide pollutant removal and infiltration and can lower the erosive 
    potential of flows.6 In addition, these practices can 
    enhance habitat values and the appearance of a site. Vegetative flow 
    attenuation devices include grass swales and filter strips as well as 
    trees that are either preserved or planted during construction.
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        \6\ ``Urban Targeting and BMP Selection'', United States EPA, 
    Region V, November 1990.
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        Typically the costs of vegetative controls are less than other 
    storm water practices. The use of check dams incorporated into flow 
    paths can provide additional infiltration and flow 
    attenuation.7 Given the limited capacity to accept large 
    volumes of runoff, and potential erosion problems associated with large 
    concentrated flows, vegetative controls should usually be used in 
    combination with other storm water devices.
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        \7\ ``Standards and Specifications for Infiltration Practices'', 
    1984, Maryland Water Resources Administration.
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        Grass swales are typically used in areas such as low or medium 
    density residential development and highway medians as an alternative 
    to curb and gutter drainage systems.8
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        \8\ ``Controlling Urban Runoff: A Practical Manual for Planning 
    and Designing Urban BMPs'', Metropolitan Washington Council of 
    Governments, July 1987.
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
    3. Outfall Velocity Dissipation Devices
        Outfall velocity dissipation devices include riprap and stone or 
    concrete flow spreaders. Outfall velocity dissipation devices slow the 
    flow of water discharged from a site to lessen erosion caused by the 
    discharge.
    4. Water Quality, Detention and Wetland Systems
        a. Storm water detention practices include wet detention and 
    wetlands systems. These systems are designed to manage both storm water 
    quantity and quality. They are designed to maintain a permanent pool of 
    water and include a littoral zone vegetated with suitable aquatic 
    plants. They also may include wetland storm water treatment systems as 
    allowed by Florida Statutes and Florida storm water or environmental
    
    [[Page 15627]]
    
    resource permitting regulations. Properly designed, constructed, and 
    maintained wet detention systems, wetland storm water systems, and 
    constructed wetlands can achieve a high removal rate of sediments, BOD, 
    organic nutrients and metals. They are most appropriate and cost 
    effective when used to control runoff at sites with high water tables 
    and a minimum drainage area of 8 acres. These practices rely on 
    settling and biological processes to remove pollutants. They can also 
    create wildlife habitat, recreation, and landscape amenities as well as 
    corresponding higher property values.
        a. Retention Structures/Artificial Wetlands. Retention structures 
    include ponds and artificial wetlands that are designed to maintain a 
    permanent pool of water. Properly installed and maintained retention 
    structures (also known as wet ponds) and artificial wetlands 
    9 can achieve a high removal rate of sediment, BOD, organic 
    nutrients and metals, and are most cost-effective when used to control 
    runoff from larger, intensively developed sites.10
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        \9\ See ``Wetland basins for Storm Water Treatment: Discussion 
    and Background'', Maryland Sediment and Storm water Division, 1987 
    and ``The Value of Wetlands for Non-point Source Control--Literature 
    Summary'', Strecker, E., et.al., 1990.
        \10\ ``Controlling Urban Runoff, A Practical Manual for Planning 
    and Designing Urban BMPs'', Metropolitan Washington Council of 
    Governments, 1987.
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        b. Water Quality Detention Structures. Storm water detention 
    structures include extended detention ponds, which control the rate at 
    which the pond drains after a storm event. Extended detention ponds are 
    usually designed to completely drain in about 24 to 40 hours, and will 
    remain dry at other times. They can provide pollutant removal 
    efficiencies that are similar to those of retention ponds.11 
    Extended detention systems are typically designed to provide both water 
    quality and water quantity (flood control) benefits.12
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        \11\ ``Urban Targeting and BMP Selection'', United States EPA, 
    Region V, November 1990.
        \12\ ``Urban Surface Water Management'', Walesh, S.G., Wiley, 
    1989.
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
    C. Housekeeping BMPs
    
        Pollutants that may enter storm water from construction sites 
    because of poor housekeeping include oils, grease, paints, gasoline, 
    concrete truck washdown, raw materials used in the manufacture of 
    concrete (e.g., sand, aggregate, and cement), solvents, litter, debris, 
    and sanitary wastes. Construction site management plans can address the 
    following to prevent the discharge of these pollutants:
         Designate areas for equipment maintenance and repair;
         Provide waste receptacles at convenient locations and 
    provide regular collection of wastes;
         Locate equipment washdown areas on site, and provide 
    appropriate control of washwaters;
         Provide protected storage areas for chemicals, paints, 
    solvents, fertilizers, and other potentially toxic materials; and
         Provide adequately maintained sanitary facilities.
    
    V. Changes From the April 16, 1997 Proposed Permit (Amended June 
    27, 1997)
    
         Facilities located on Indian country lands in South 
    Carolina will not be covered by this permit. Coverage for these 
    facilities can be obtained under a State issued NPDES construction 
    general permit.
         References to the applicability of this permit to utility 
    companies have been deleted from Part I.B.3 of the permit.
         Individuals who intend to obtain coverage under this 
    general permit for storm water discharges from a construction site 
    (where disturbances associated with the construction project commence 
    before the effective date of this permit), including unpaved rural 
    roads, must submit a Notice of Intent (NOI), if they have not already 
    done so, in accordance with the requirements of Part II within 30 days 
    of the effective date of this permit.
         The NOI submission requirements of Part II.E. and Part 
    VII.B. have been changed. Facilities that have submitted an NOI for 
    coverage under the administratively continued previous general permit 
    do not have to submit an NOI for coverage under today's permit. 
    Facilities who will seek coverage under today's permit if it is 
    administratively continued after its expiration, must submit an NOI for 
    coverage during the post expiration continuance.
         Facilities that have submitted an NOI for coverage under 
    the administratively continued general permit or have submitted since 
    the general permit's expiration, will get automatic coverage under 
    today's permit.
         Facilities located on Indian country lands are exempted 
    from obtaining a State storm water or environmental resource permit.
         The currently approved NOI (EPA form 3510-9) published in 
    the March 6, 1998 Federal Register (63 FR 11253) is authorized for use.
         Part III.A.2.b. has been changed to clarify what 
    discharges may be authorized under today's permit.
         Part IV.B language has been changed to eliminate 
    references to the Silviculture BMP manual. The language now requires 
    applicable facilities to be consistent with the requirements of the 
    State Water Policy, the applicable State storm water or environmental 
    resource permit, and the guidelines contained in the Florida 
    Development Manual: A Guide to Sound Land and Water Management. In 
    addition, erosion and sediment control performance standards are 
    deleted from the permit.
         Part V language has been changed to limit the application 
    of nutrients to rates necessary to maintain vegetation and not cause 
    water quality standards violations. In additions the language has been 
    updated to ensure that the application, generation and migration of 
    toxic substances is limited and that toxic materials are properly 
    stored and disposed.
         References to arid and semi-arid regions have been 
    eliminated from the permit.
         Facilities terminating coverage must submit the NOT within 
    14 days of final stabilization.
         NOTs are to be sent to the processing center in 
    Washington, DC. at the address indicated in Part IX of the permit.
         The current endangered and threatened species list is 
    included.
         References are made to the State of Florida environmental 
    resource permits where applicable.
    
    VI. Summary of Permit Conditions
    
        This general permit contain Notice of Intent requirements, a 
    prohibition on discharging sources of non-storm water, requirements for 
    releases of hazardous substances or oil in excess of reporting 
    quantities, requirements for developing and implementing storm water 
    pollution prevention plans, and requirements for site inspections.
    
    A. Notice of Intent Requirements
    
        NPDES general permits for storm water discharges associated with 
    industrial activity require that dischargers submit a Notice of Intent 
    (NOI) to be covered by the permit prior to the authorization of their 
    discharges under such permit (see 40 CFR 122.28(b)(2)). Consistent with 
    these regulatory requirements, today's permit proposes NOI 
    requirements. These requirements are consistent with the previously 
    issued general permit. Dischargers that submit a complete NOI are not 
    required to submit an individual permit application for such discharge, 
    unless the Director specifically notifies the discharger that an 
    individual permit application must be submitted.
    
    [[Page 15628]]
    
        Dischargers who want to obtain coverage under this permit must 
    submit NOIs using the form provided by EPA (or a photocopy thereof). 
    The NOI form referenced in Appendix A of this document and can be 
    photocopied for use in submittals. NOI forms are also available from 
    the EPA Region 4 Office (see the ADDRESSES section of today's 
    document). Completed NOI forms must be submitted to the following 
    address: Storm Water Notices of Intent (4203), 401 M Street, SW., 
    Washington, DC 20460.
        Dischargers operating under approved State or local sediment and 
    erosion plans, grading plans, or storm water management plans, must, in 
    addition to filing copies of the NOI with EPA, submit signed copies of 
    the NOI to the State or local agency approving such plans by the 
    deadlines stated below.
    1. Deadlines for Submitting NOIs
        Deadlines for submittal of NOIs to be authorized to discharge under 
    this permit are as follows:
         Applicants who have submitted a completed NOI for coverage 
    under the administratively continued previous general permit (57 FR 
    44412) or applicants who have submitted a completed NOI for coverage 
    under the general permit after its expiration shall automatically 
    receive coverage under today's permit. If the applicant cannot certify 
    that they meet all applicable eligibility requirements of Part I.B of 
    today's permit or cannot be covered by, or comply with, the terms and 
    conditions of this permit, then the applicant shall notify the 
    director, in accordance with the requirements of Part IX of this 
    permit, within 90 days of the effective date of this permit.
         On or before the effective date of this permit, for storm 
    water discharges from construction sites where disturbances associated 
    with a construction project occur on or before the effective date of 
    this permit, and final stabilization \13\ is completed at the site 
    after the effective date of this permit;
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        \13\ The term ``final stabilization'' is defined in today's 
    permits and is discussed in more detail in the Notice of Termination 
    section of today's fact sheet.
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
         At least 2 days prior to the commencement of construction 
    activities (e.g., the initial disturbance of soils associated with 
    clearing, grading, excavation activities, or other construction 
    activities), where such activities commence after the effective date of 
    this permit; and
         For storm water discharges from construction sites where 
    the operator changes, (including projects where an operator is selected 
    after an NOI has been submitted), an NOI shall be submitted at least 2 
    days prior to when the operator commences work at the site.
        EPA will accept an NOI at a later date. However, in such instances, 
    EPA may bring appropriate enforcement actions.
    2. Authorization
        Dischargers who submit a complete NOI in accordance with the 
    requirements of this permit are authorized to discharge storm water 
    from construction sites under the terms and conditions of this permit 2 
    days after the date that the NOI is postmarked, unless notified by EPA.
        EPA may deny coverage under this permit and require submittal of an 
    individual NPDES permit application based on a review of the 
    completeness and/or content of the NOI or other information (e.g., 
    water quality information, compliance history, etc.). Where EPA 
    requires a discharger authorized under the general permit to apply for 
    an individual NPDES permit or an alternative general permit, EPA will 
    notify the discharger in writing that a permit application is required. 
    Coverage under this general permit will automatically terminate if the 
    discharger fails to submit the required permit application in a timely 
    manner. Where the discharger does submit a requested permit 
    application, coverage under this general permit will automatically 
    terminate on the effective date of the issuance or denial of the 
    individual NPDES permit or the alternative general permit as it applies 
    to the individual permittee.
    3. Contents of the NOI
        A photocopy of the NOI in Appendix A of today's document may be 
    completed and submitted to EPA's central address to obtain 
    authorization to discharge under today's permit. The NOI form requires 
    the following information:
         The mailing address of the construction site for which the 
    notification is submitted. Where a mailing address for the site is not 
    available, the location of the approximate center of the site must be 
    described in terms of the latitude and longitude to the nearest 15 
    seconds, or the section, township, and range to the nearest quarter;
         The site owner's name, address, and telephone number;
         The name, address, and telephone number of the operator(s) 
    with day-to-day operational control who have been identified at the 
    time of the NOI submittal, and their status as a Federal, State, 
    private, public, or other entity. Where multiple operators have been 
    selected at the time of the initial NOI submittal, NOIs must be 
    attached and submitted in the same envelope. When an additional 
    operator submits an NOI for a site with a preexisting NPDES permit, the 
    NOI of the additional operator must indicate the preexisting NPDES 
    permit number for discharge(s) from the site;
         The name of the receiving water(s), or if the discharge is 
    through a municipal separate storm sewer, the name of the municipal 
    operator of the storm sewer and the ultimate receiving water(s);
         The permit number of any NPDES permit(s) for any other 
    discharge(s) (including any other storm water discharges or any non-
    storm water discharges) from the site;
         An indication of whether the operator has existing 
    sampling data that describe the concentration of pollutants in storm 
    water discharges. Existing data should not be included as part of the 
    NOI and should not be submitted unless and until requested by EPA; and
         An estimate of project start date and completion dates, 
    estimates of the number of acres of the site on which soil will be 
    disturbed, and a certification that a storm water pollution prevention 
    plan has been prepared for the site in accordance with the permit and 
    that such plan complies with approved State and/or local sediment and 
    erosion plans or permits and/or storm water management plans or 
    permits. A copy of the plans or permits should not be included with the 
    NOI submission, and should not be submitted unless and until requested 
    by EPA.
        The NOI must be signed in accordance with the signatory 
    requirements of 40 CFR 122.22. A complete description of these 
    signatory requirements is provided in the instructions accompanying the 
    NOI (see Appendix A).
    4. Additional Notification
        In addition to submitting the NOI to EPA, facilities operating 
    under approved State or local sediment and erosion plans, grading 
    plans, or storm water management plans are required to submit signed 
    copies of the NOI to the State or local agency approving such plans by 
    the deadlines stated above. Failure to do so constitutes a violation of 
    the permit.
    
    [[Page 15629]]
    
    B. Special Conditions
    
    1. Prohibition on Non-Storm Water Discharges
        Today's permit does not authorize non-storm water discharges that 
    are mixed with storm water except for specific classes of non-storm 
    water discharges specified in the permit. Non-storm water discharges 
    that can be authorized under today's permit include discharges from 
    firefighting activities; fire hydrant flushings; waters used to wash 
    vehicles or control dust in accordance with permit requirements; 
    potable water sources including waterline flushings; irrigation 
    drainage; routine external building washdown that does not use 
    detergents; pavement washwaters where spills or leaks of toxic or 
    hazardous materials have not occurred (unless all spilled material has 
    been removed) and where detergents are not used; air conditioning 
    condensate; springs; and foundation or footing drains where flows are 
    not contaminated with process materials such as solvents.14
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        \14\ These discharges are consistent with the allowable classes 
    of non-storm water discharges to municipal separate storm sewer 
    systems (40 CFR 122.26(d)(iv)(D)).
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        To be authorized under the final issued permit, sources of non-
    storm water (except flows from firefighting activities) must be 
    specifically identified in the storm water pollution prevention plan 
    prepared for the facility. (Plan requirements are discussed in more 
    detail below). Where such discharges occur, the plan must also identify 
    and ensure the implementation of appropriate pollution prevention 
    measures for the non-storm water components of the discharge. For 
    example, to reduce pollutants in irrigation drainage, a plan could 
    identify low maintenance lawn areas that do not require the use of 
    fertilizers or biocides; for higher maintenance lawn areas, a plan 
    could identify measures such as limiting fertilizer use based on 
    seasonal and agronomic considerations, decreasing biocide use with an 
    integrated pest management program, introducing natural vegetation or 
    more hearty species, and reducing water use (thereby reducing the 
    volume of irrigation drainage).
        This permit will not require pollution prevention measures to be 
    identified and implemented for non-storm water flows from firefighting 
    activities since these flows will usually occur as unplanned emergency 
    situations where it is necessary to take immediate action to protect 
    the public.
        The general prohibition on non-storm water discharges in today's 
    permit ensures that non-storm water discharges (except for those 
    classes of non-storm water discharges that are conditionally 
    authorized) are not inadvertently authorized by this permit. Where a 
    storm water discharge is mixed with process wastewaters or other 
    sources of non-storm water prior to discharge, and the discharge is 
    currently not authorized by an NPDES permit, the discharge cannot be 
    covered by today's permit and the discharger should (1) submit the 
    appropriate application forms (Forms 1 and 2C) to obtain permit 
    coverage or (2) discontinue the discharge.
    2. Releases of Reportable Quantities of Hazardous Substances and Oil
        Today's permit provides that the discharge of hazardous substances 
    or oil from a facility must be eliminated or minimized in accordance 
    with the storm water pollution plan developed for the facility. Where a 
    permitted storm water discharge contains a hazardous substance or oil 
    in an amount equal to or in excess of a reporting quantity established 
    under 40 CFR part 110, 40 CFR part 117, or 40 CFR part 302, during a 
    24-hour period, today's permit requires the following actions:
         The permittee must notify the National Response Center 
    (NRC) (800-424-8802; or in Region 4, 404-562-8702) in accordance with 
    the requirements of 40 CFR part 110, 40 CFR part 117, and 40 CFR part 
    302, as soon as they have knowledge of the discharge;
         The permittee must modify the storm water pollution 
    prevention plan for the facility within 14 calendar days of knowledge 
    of the release to provide (1) a description of the release, (2) the 
    date of the release and (3) the circumstances leading to the release. 
    In addition, the permittee must modify the plan, as appropriate, to 
    identify measures to prevent the reoccurrence of such releases and to 
    respond to such releases.
         Within 14 calendar days of the knowledge of the release, 
    the permittee must submit to EPA (1) a written description of the 
    release (including the type and estimated amount of material released), 
    (2) the date that such release occurred, (3) the circumstances leading 
    to the release, and (4) any steps to be taken to modify the storm water 
    pollution prevention plan for the facility.
        Where a discharge of a hazardous substance or oil in excess of 
    reporting quantities is caused by a non-storm water discharge (e.g., a 
    spill of oil into a separate storm sewer), the spill is not authorized 
    by this permit. The discharger must report the spill as required under 
    40 CFR part 110. In the event of a spill, the requirements of section 
    311 of the CWA and otherwise applicable provisions of sections 301 and 
    402 of the CWA continue to apply.
        This approach is consistent with the requirements for reporting 
    releases of hazardous substances and oil-requirements that make a clear 
    distinction between hazardous substances typically found in storm water 
    discharges and those associated with spills that are not considered 
    part of a normal storm water discharge (see 40 CFR 117.12(d)(2)(i)).
    
    C. Unpaved Rural Roads
    
        Part IV of the permit and its conditions are intended to eliminate, 
    prevent or minimize the discharge of pollutants to waters of the U.S. 
    from the construction of unpaved roads. EPA believes that the discharge 
    of storm water runoff from the construction of unpaved roads could be a 
    significant source of pollutants to waters of the United States. 
    Therefore, the discharge of storm water from the construction of 
    unpaved roads greater than five (5) acres is not exempt from the 
    requirements of 40 CFR 122.26(a)(1)(ii) and (b)(14)(x) under the 
    Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991. This action 
    is in accordance with section 402(p)(2)(E) of the Clean Water Act 
    (1987, as amended). If five (5) acres equals 217,800 ft\2\ and area 
    equals length times width, then the approximate length of road equal to 
    five (5) acres would be 217,800 ft\2\ divided by the road width. For 
    example, assuming a road construction area width of 25 feet, five (5) 
    acres of road would be approximately 1.65 miles.
        The principle component of the Part IV requirements for facilities 
    in the State of Florida is consistency with the requirements set forth 
    in State Water Policy (Chapter 62-40, FAC), the applicable storm water 
    or environmental resource permitting requirements of the FDEP or 
    appropriate FWMD, and the guidelines contained in the Florida 
    Development Manual: A Guide to Sound Land and Water Management (FDEP, 
    1988) and any subsequent amendments. All relevant portions of the 
    pollution prevention plan requirements of Part V of the permit shall be 
    applied to discharges of storm water from unpaved roads.
    
    D. Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan Requirements
    
        The pollution prevention plans required by today's permit focuses 
    on two major tasks: (1) Providing a site description that identifies 
    sources of pollution to storm water discharges
    
    [[Page 15630]]
    
    associated with industrial activity from the facility and (2) 
    identifying and implementing appropriate measures to reduce pollutants 
    in storm water discharges to ensure compliance with the terms and 
    conditions of this permit.
        In developing this permit, the Agency reviewed a significant number 
    of existing State and local sediment and erosion control and storm 
    water management requirements. State and local data were reviewed for a 
    wide range of climates and varying types of construction activities.
    1. Contents of the Plan
        Storm water pollution prevention plans must include a site 
    description; a description of controls that will be used at the site 
    (e.g., erosion and sediment controls, storm water management measures); 
    a description of maintenance and inspection procedures; and a 
    description of pollution prevention measures for any non-storm water 
    discharges that exist.
        a. Site Description. Storm water pollution prevention plans must be 
    based on an accurate understanding of the pollution potential of the 
    site. The first part of the plan requires an evaluation of the sources 
    of pollution at a specific construction site. The plan must identify 
    potential sources of pollution that may reasonably be expected to 
    affect the quality of storm water discharges from the construction 
    site. In addition, the source identification components for pollution 
    prevention plans must provide a description of the site and the 
    construction activities. This information is intended to provide a 
    better understanding of site runoff and major pollutant sources. At a 
    minimum, plans must include the following:
         A description of the nature of the construction activity. 
    This would typically include a description of the ultimate use of the 
    project (e.g., low-density residential, shopping mall, highway).
         A description of the intended sequence of major activities 
    that disturb soils for major portions of the site (e.g., grubbing, 
    excavation, grading).
         Estimates of the total area of the site and the total area 
    of the site that is expected to be disturbed by excavation, grading, or 
    other activities. Where the construction activity is to be staged, it 
    may be appropriate to describe areas of the site that will be disturbed 
    at different stages of the construction process.
         Estimates of the runoff coefficient of the site after 
    construction activities are completed as well as existing data 
    describing the quality of any discharge from the site or the soil. The 
    runoff coefficient is defined as the fraction of total rainfall that 
    will appear at the conveyance as runoff. Runoff coefficients can be 
    estimated from site plan maps, which provide estimates of the area of 
    impervious structures planned for the site and estimates of areas where 
    vegetation will be precluded or incorporated. Runoff coefficients are 
    one tool for evaluating the volume of runoff that will occur from a 
    site when construction is completed. These coefficients assist in 
    evaluating pollutant loadings, potential hydraulic impacts to receiving 
    waters, and flooding impacts. They are also used for sizing of post-
    construction storm water management measures.
         A site map indicating drainage patterns and approximate 
    slopes anticipated after major grading activities, areas of soil 
    disturbance; an outline of areas that will not be disturbed; the 
    location of major structural and nonstructural controls identified in 
    the plan; the location of areas where stabilization practices are 
    expected to occur; the location of surface waters (including wetlands); 
    and locations where storm water is discharged to a surface water. Site 
    maps should also include other major features and potential pollutant 
    sources, such as the location of impervious structures and the location 
    of soil piles during the construction process.
         The name of the receiving water(s), and areal extent of 
    wetland acreage at the site.
        b. Controls to Reduce Pollutants. The storm water pollution 
    prevention plan must describe and ensure the implementation of 
    practices that will be used to reduce the pollutants in storm water 
    discharges from the site and assure compliance with the terms and 
    conditions of the permit. Permittees are required to develop a 
    description of four classes of controls appropriate for inclusion in 
    the facility's plan, and implement controls identified in the plan in 
    accordance with the plan. The description of controls must address (1) 
    erosion and sediment controls, (2) storm water management, (3) a 
    specified set of other controls, and (4) any applicable procedures and 
    requirements of State and local sediment and erosion plans or storm 
    water management plans.
        The pollution prevention plan must clearly describe the intended 
    sequence of major activities and when, in relation to the construction 
    process, the control will be implemented. Good site planning and 
    preservation of mature vegetation are primary control techniques for 
    controlling sediment in storm water discharges during construction 
    activities as well as for developing a strategy for storm water 
    management that controls pollutants in storm water discharges after the 
    completion of construction activities. Properly staging major earth 
    disturbing activities can also dramatically decrease the costs of 
    sediment and erosion controls. The description of the intended sequence 
    of major activities will typically describe the intended staging of 
    activities on different parts of the site.
        Permittees must develop and implement four classes of controls in 
    the pollution prevention plan, each of which is discussed below.
        i. Erosion and Sediment Controls. The requirements for erosion and 
    sediment controls for construction activities in this permit have three 
    goals: (1) To divert upslope water around disturbed areas of the site; 
    (2) to limit the exposure of disturbed areas to the shortest duration 
    possible; and (3) to remove sediment from storm water before it leaves 
    the site. Erosion and sediment controls include both stabilization 
    practices and structural practices.
        Stabilization Practices. Pollution prevention plans must include a 
    description of interim and permanent stabilization practices, including 
    site-specific scheduling of the implementation of the practices. The 
    plans should ensure that existing vegetation is preserved where 
    attainable and that disturbed portions of the site are stabilized as 
    quickly as possible. Stabilization practices are the first line of 
    defense for preventing erosion; they include temporary seeding, 
    permanent seeding, mulching, geotextiles, sod stabilization, vegetative 
    buffer strips, protection of trees, preservation of mature vegetative 
    buffer strips, and other appropriate measures. Temporary stabilization 
    practices are often cited as the single most important factor in 
    reducing erosion at construction sites.15
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        \15\ ``New York Guidelines for Urban Erosion and Sediment 
    Control'', USDA, Soil Conservation Service, March 1988.
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        Stabilization also involves preserving and protecting selected 
    trees that were on the site prior to development. Mature trees have 
    extensive canopy and root systems, which help to hold soil in place. 
    Shade trees also keep soil from drying rapidly and becoming susceptible 
    to erosion. Measures taken to protect trees can vary significantly, 
    from simple measures such as installing tree fencing around the drip 
    line and installing tree armoring, to more complex measures such as 
    building retaining walls and tree wells.
    
    [[Page 15631]]
    
        Since stabilization practices play such an important role in 
    preventing erosion, it is critical that they are rapidly employed in 
    appropriate areas. This permit provides that, except in three 
    situations, stabilization measures be initiated on disturbed areas as 
    soon as practicable, but no more than 14 days after construction 
    activity on a particular portion of the site has temporarily or 
    permanently ceased. The three exceptions to this requirement are the 
    following:
         Where construction activities will resume on a portion of 
    the site within 21 days from when the construction activities ceased.
         Where the initiation of stabilization measures is 
    precluded by snow cover, in which case, stabilization measures must be 
    initiated as soon as practicable.
        Structural Practices. The pollution prevention plan must include a 
    description of structural practices to the degree economically 
    attainable, to divert flows from exposed soils, store flows, or 
    otherwise limit runoff and the discharge of pollutants from exposed 
    areas of the site. Structural controls are necessary because vegetative 
    controls cannot be employed at areas of the site that are continually 
    disturbed and because a finite time period is required before 
    vegetative practices are fully effective. Options for such controls 
    include silt fences, earth dikes, drainage swales, check dams, 
    subsurface drains, pipe slope drains, level spreaders, storm drain 
    inlet protection, rock outlet protection, sediment traps, rock outlet 
    protection, reinforced soil retaining systems, gabions, and temporary 
    or permanent sediment basins. Structural measures should be placed on 
    upland soils to the degree possible.
        For sites with more than 10 disturbed acres at one time that are 
    served by a common drainage location, a temporary or permanent sediment 
    basin providing 3,600 cubic feet of storage per acre drained, or 
    equivalent control measures (such as suitably sized dry wells or 
    infiltration structures), must be provided where economically 
    attainable until final stabilization of the site has been accomplished. 
    Flows from offsite areas and flows from onsite areas that are either 
    undisturbed or have undergone final stabilization may be diverted 
    around both the sediment basin and the disturbed area. The requirement 
    to provide 3,600 cubic feet of storage area per acre drained does not 
    apply to such diverted flows.
        For the drainage locations which serve more than 10 disturbed acres 
    at one time and where a sediment basin providing storage or equivalent 
    controls for 3,600 cubic feet per acre drained is not economically 
    attainable, smaller sediment basins or sediment traps should be used. 
    At a minimum, silt fences, or equivalent sediment controls are required 
    for all sideslope and downslope boundaries of the construction area. 
    Diversion structures should be used on upland boundaries of disturbed 
    areas to prevent runon from entering disturbed areas.
        For drainage locations serving 10 or less acres, smaller sediment 
    basins or sediment traps should be used and at a minimum, silt fences, 
    or equivalent sediment controls are required for all sideslope and 
    downslope boundaries of the construction area. Alternatively, the 
    permittee may provide a sediment basin providing storage for 3,600 
    cubic feet of storage per acre drained. Diversion structures should be 
    used on upland boundaries of disturbed areas to prevent runon from 
    entering disturbed areas.
        ii. Storm Water Management. The plan must include a description of 
    ``storm water management'' measures.16 This permit addresses 
    only the installation of storm water management measures and not the 
    ultimate operation and maintenance of such structures after the 
    construction activities have been completed and the site has undergone 
    final stabilization. Permittees are responsible only for the 
    installation and maintenance of storm water management measures prior 
    to final stabilization of the site and are not responsible for 
    maintenance after storm water discharges associated with construction 
    activities have been eliminated from the site. However, this does not 
    release a facility from responsibilities to operate and maintain storm 
    water management systems in perpetuity after final stabilization in 
    accordance with the requirements set forth by local environmental 
    permitting actions such as the State of Florida storm water or 
    environmental resource permit issued for the site.
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        \16\ For the purpose of the special requirements for 
    construction activities, the term ``storm water management'' 
    measures refers to controls that will primarily reduce the discharge 
    of pollutants in storm water from sites after completion of 
    construction activities.
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        Land development can significantly increase storm water discharge 
    volumes and peak velocities where appropriate storm water management 
    measures are not implemented. In addition, storm water discharges will 
    typically contain higher levels of pollutants, including total 
    suspended solids (TSS), heavy metals, nutrients, and oxygen demanding 
    constituents.17
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        \17\ See ``Nationwide Urban Runoff Program'', EPA, 1984.
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        Storm water management measures that are installed during the 
    construction process can control the volume of storm water discharged 
    and peak discharge velocities, as well as reduce the amount of 
    pollutants discharged after the construction operations have been 
    completed. Reductions in peak discharge velocities and volumes can also 
    reduce pollutant loads, as well as reduce physical impacts such as 
    stream bank erosion and stream bed scour. Storm water management 
    measures that mitigate changes to predevelopment runoff characteristics 
    assist in protecting and maintaining the physical and biological 
    characteristics of receiving streams and wetlands.
        Structural measures should be placed on upland soils to the degree 
    attainable. The installation of such devices may be subject to section 
    404 of the CWA if the devices are placed in wetlands (or other waters 
    of the United States).
        Options for storm water management measures that are to be 
    evaluated in the development of plans include infiltration of runoff on 
    site; flow attenuation by use of open vegetated swales and natural 
    depressions; storm water retention structures and storm water detention 
    structures (including wet ponds); and sequential systems that combine 
    several practices.
        The pollution prevention plan must include an explanation of the 
    technical basis used to select the practices to control pollution where 
    flows exceed predevelopment levels. The explanation of the technical 
    basis for selecting practices should address how a number of factors 
    were evaluated, including the pollutant removal efficiencies of the 
    measures, the costs of the measure, site specific factors that will 
    affect the application of the measures, the economic achievability of 
    the measure at a particular site, and other relevant factors.
        EPA anticipates that storm water management measures at many sites 
    will be able to provide for the removal of at least 80 percent of total 
    suspended solids (TSS).18 A number of storm water management 
    measures can be used to achieve this level of control, including 
    properly designed and installed wet ponds, infiltration trenches, 
    infiltration basins, sand filter system, manmade storm water wetlands, 
    and multiple pond systems. The pollutant removal efficiencies of 
    various storm water management measures can be estimated
    
    [[Page 15632]]
    
    from a number of sources, including ``Storm Water Management for 
    Construction Activities: Developing Pollution Prevention Plans and Best 
    Management Practices,'' U.S. EPA, 1992, and ``A Current Assessment of 
    Urban Best Management Practice,'' prepared for U.S. EPA by Metropolitan 
    Washington Council of Governments, March 1992. Proper selection of a 
    technology depends on site factors and other conditions.
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        \18\ TSS can be used as an indicator parameter to characterize 
    the control of other pollutants, including heavy metals, oxygen 
    demanding pollutants, and nutrients, commonly found in storm water 
    discharges.
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        In selecting storm water management measures, the permittee should 
    consider the impacts of each method on other water resources, such as 
    ground water. Although storm water pollution prevention plans primarily 
    focus on storm water management, EPA encourages facilities to avoid 
    creating ground water pollution problems. For example, if the water 
    table is unusually high in an area or soils are especially sandy and 
    porous, an infiltration pond may contaminate a ground water source 
    unless special preventive measures are taken. Under EPA's July 1991 
    Ground Water Protection Strategy, States are encouraged to develop 
    Comprehensive State Ground Water Protection Programs (CSGWPP). Efforts 
    to control storm water should be compatible with State ground water 
    objectives as reflected in CSGWPPs.
        The evaluation of whether the pollutant loadings and the hydrologic 
    conditions (the volume of discharge) of flows exceed predevelopment 
    levels can be based on hydrologic models which consider conditions such 
    as the natural vegetation which is typical for the area.
        Increased discharge velocities can greatly accelerate erosion near 
    the outlet of onsite structural measures. To mitigate these effects, 
    this permit requires that velocity dissipation devices be placed at 
    discharge locations and along the length of any outfall channel as 
    necessary to provide a non-erosive velocity flow from the structure to 
    a water course. Velocity dissipation devices maintain and protect the 
    natural physical and biological characteristics and functions of the 
    watercourse, e.g., hydrologic conditions, such as the hydroperiod and 
    hydrodynamics, that were present prior to the initiation of 
    construction activities.
        iii. Other Controls. Other controls to be addressed in storm water 
    pollution prevention plans for construction activities require that no 
    non-storm water solid materials, including building material wastes 
    shall be discharged at the site, except as authorized by a Section 404 
    permit.
        This final permit requires that offsite vehicle tracking of 
    sediments and the generation of dust be minimized. This can be 
    accomplished by measures such as providing gravel or paving at access 
    entrance and exit drives, parking areas, and unpaved roads on the site 
    carrying significant amounts of traffic (e.g., more than 25 vehicles 
    per day); providing entrance wash racks or stations for trucks; and/or 
    providing street sweeping.
        In addition, this permit requires that the plan shall ensure and 
    demonstrate compliance with applicable State and/or local sanitary 
    sewer, septic system, and waste disposal regulations.19
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        \19\ In rural and suburban areas that are served by septic 
    systems, malfunctioning septic systems can contribute pollutants to 
    storm water discharges. Malfunctioning septic tanks may be a more 
    significant surface runoff pollution problem than a ground water 
    problem. This is because a malfunctioning septic system is less 
    likely to cause ground water contamination where a bacterial mat in 
    the soil retards the downward movement of wastewater. Surface 
    malfunctions are caused by clogged or impermeable soils, or when 
    stopped up or collapsed pipes force untreated wastewater to the 
    surface. Surface malfunctions can vary in degree from occasional 
    damp patches on the surface to constant pooling or runoff of 
    wastewater. These discharges have high bacteria, nitrate, and 
    nutrient levels and can contain a variety of household chemicals. 
    This permit does not establish new criteria for septic systems, but 
    rather addresses existing State or local criteria.
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        iv. State and Local Controls. Many municipalities and States have 
    developed sediment and erosion control requirements for construction 
    activities. A significant number of municipalities and States have also 
    developed storm water management controls. This general permit requires 
    that storm water pollution prevention plans for facilities that 
    discharge storm water associated with industrial activity from 
    construction activities include procedures and requirements of State 
    and local sediment and erosion control plans or storm water management 
    plans. Permittees are required to provide a certification that their 
    storm water pollution prevention plan reflects requirements related to 
    protecting water resources that are specified in State or local 
    sediment and erosion plans or storm water management 
    plans.20 In addition, permittees are required to amend their 
    storm water pollution prevention plans to reflect any change in a 
    sediment and erosion site plan or site permit or storm water management 
    site plan or site permit approved by State or local officials for which 
    the permittee receives written notice. Where such amendments are made, 
    the permittee must provide a recertification that the storm water 
    pollution prevention plan has been modified. This provision does not 
    apply to provisions of master plans, comprehensive plans, 
    nonenforceable guidelines, or technical guidance documents, but rather 
    to site-specific State or local permits or plans.
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        \20\ Operators of storm water discharges from construction 
    activities which, based on an evaluation of site specific 
    conditions, believe that State and local plans do not adequately 
    represent BAT and BCT requirements for the facility may request to 
    be excluded from the coverage of the general permit by submitting to 
    the Director an individual application with a detailed explanation 
    of the reasons supporting the request, including any supporting 
    documentation showing that certain permit conditions are not 
    appropriate.
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        c. Maintenance. Erosion and sediment controls can become 
    ineffective if they are damaged or not properly maintained. Maintenance 
    of controls has been identified as a major part of effective erosion 
    and sediment programs. Plans must contain a description of prompt and 
    timely maintenance and repair procedures addressing all erosion and 
    sediment control measures (e.g., sediment basins, traps, silt fences), 
    vegetation, and other measures identified in the site plan to ensure 
    that such measures are kept in good and effective operating condition.
        d. Inspections. Procedures in a plan must provide that specified 
    areas on the site are inspected by qualified personnel provided by the 
    discharger a minimum of once every seven calendar days and within 24 
    hours after any storm event of greater than 0.25 inches. Areas of the 
    site that must be observed during such inspections include disturbed 
    areas, areas used for storage of materials that are exposed to 
    precipitation, structural control measures, and locations where 
    vehicles enter or exit the site. Where sites have been temporarily or 
    finally stabilized, the inspection must be conducted at least once 
    every month.
        Disturbed areas and areas used for storage of materials that are 
    exposed to precipitation must be inspected for evidence of, or the 
    potential for, pollutants entering the runoff from the site. Erosion 
    and sediment control measures identified in the plan must be observed 
    to ensure that they are operating correctly. Observations can be made 
    during wet or dry weather conditions. Where discharge locations or 
    points are accessible, they must be inspected to ascertain whether 
    erosion control measures are effective in preventing significant 
    impacts to receiving waters. This can be done by inspecting receiving 
    waters to see whether any signs of erosion or sediment are associated 
    with the discharge location. Locations where vehicles enter or exit the 
    site must be inspected for evidence of offsite sediment tracking.
        Based on the results of the inspection, the site description and 
    the pollution prevention measures identified in the plan must be 
    revised as soon as possible after an inspection that reveals
    
    [[Page 15633]]
    
    inadequacies. The inspection and plan review process must provide for 
    timely implementation of any changes to the plan within 7 calendar days 
    following the inspection.
        An inspection report that summarizes the scope of the inspection, 
    name(s) and qualifications of personnel conducting the inspection, the 
    dates of the inspection, major observations relating to the 
    implementation of the storm water pollution prevention plan, and 
    actions taken must be retained as part of the storm water pollution 
    prevention plan for at least three years after the date of inspection. 
    The report must be signed in accordance with the signatory requirements 
    in the Standard Conditions section of this permit.
        Diligent inspections are necessary to ensure adequate 
    implementation of onsite sediment and erosion controls, particularly in 
    the later stages of construction when the volume of runoff is greatest 
    and the storage capacity of the sediment basins has been 
    reduced.21
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        \21\ ``Performance of Current Sediment Control Measures at 
    Maryland Construction Sites'', January 1990, Metropolitan Washington 
    Council of Governments.
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        e. Non-Storm Water Discharges. The final issued permit may 
    authorize storm water discharges from construction activities that are 
    mixed with discharges from firefighting activities, fire hydrant 
    flushings, waters used to wash vehicles or control dust in accordance 
    with efforts to minimize offsite sediment tracking, potable water 
    sources including waterline flushings, irrigation drainage from 
    watering vegetation, routine exterior building washdown that does not 
    use detergents, pavement washwaters where spills or leaks of toxic or 
    hazardous materials have not occurred (unless all spilled material has 
    been removed) and where detergents are not used, air conditioning 
    condensate, springs, and foundation or footing drains where flows are 
    not contaminated with process materials such as solvents, provided the 
    non-storm water component of the discharge is specifically identified 
    in the pollution prevention plan. In addition, the plan must identify 
    and ensure the implementation of appropriate pollution prevention 
    measures for each of the non-storm water component(s) of the 
    discharge.22
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        \22\ This is consistent with the allowable types of non-storm 
    water discharges to municipal separate storm sewer systems (40 CFR 
    122.26(d)(2)(iv)(A)).
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        EPA believes that where these classes of non-storm water discharges 
    are identified in a pollution prevention plan and where appropriate 
    pollution prevention measures are evaluated, identified, and 
    implemented, they generally pose low risks to the environment. The 
    Agency also notes that it can request individual permit applications 
    for such discharges where appropriate. The Agency is not requiring that 
    flows from fire-fighting activities be identified in plans because of 
    the emergency nature of such discharges coupled with their low 
    probability and the unpredictability of their occurrence.
    2. Deadlines for Plan Preparation and Compliance
        The final issued permit will establish the following deadlines for 
    storm water pollution prevention plan development and compliance:
         The plan must be completed prior to the submittal of an 
    NOI to be covered under this permit and updated as appropriate.
         For construction activities that have begun on or before 
    the effective date of this permit, except the plan shall provide for 
    compliance with the terms and schedule of the plan beginning on the 
    effective date of this permit.
         For construction activities that have begun after the 
    effective date of this permit, the plan must provide for compliance 
    with the terms and schedule of the plan beginning with the initiation 
    of construction activities.
    3. Signature and Plan Review
        Signature and plan review requirements are as follows:
         The plan must be signed by all permittees for a site in 
    accordance with the signatory requirements in the Standard Permit 
    Conditions section of the permit, and must be retained on site at the 
    facility that generates the storm water discharge.
         The permittee must make plans available, upon request, to 
    EPA, and State or local agency approved sediment and erosion plans, 
    grading plans, or storm water management plans. In the case of a storm 
    water discharge associated with industrial activity that discharges 
    through a municipal separate storm sewer system with an NPDES permit, 
    permittees must make plans available to the municipal operator of the 
    system upon request.
         EPA may notify the permittee at any time that the plan 
    does not meet one or more of the minimum requirements. Within 7 days of 
    such notification from EPA (or as otherwise requested by EPA), the 
    permittee must make the required changes to the plan and submit to EPA 
    a written certification that the requested changes have been made.
    4. Keeping Plans Current
        The permittee must amend the plan whenever there is a change in 
    design, construction, operation, or maintenance, that has a significant 
    effect on the potential for the discharge of pollutants to waters of 
    the United States or to municipal separate storm sewer systems. The 
    plan must also be amended if it proves to be ineffective in eliminating 
    or significantly minimizing pollutants in the storm water discharges 
    from the construction activity. In addition, the plan shall be amended 
    to identify any new contractor and/or subcontractor that will implement 
    a measure of the storm water pollution prevention plan. Amendments to 
    the plan will be reviewed by EPA as described above.
    5. Additional Requirements
        This permit authorizes a storm water discharge associated with 
    industrial activity from a construction site that is mixed with a storm 
    water discharge from an industrial source other than construction, only 
    under the following conditions:
         The industrial source other than construction is located 
    on the same site as the construction activity; and
         Storm water discharges from where the construction 
    activities are occurring are in compliance with the terms of this 
    permit.
    6. Contractors
        The storm water pollution prevention plan must clearly identify for 
    each measure identified in the plan, the contractor(s) and/or 
    subcontractor(s) that will implement the measure. All contractors and 
    subcontractors identified in the plan must sign a copy of the 
    certification statement presented below before conducting any 
    professional service at the site identified in the pollution prevention 
    plan:
    
        ``I certify under penalty of law that I understand the terms and 
    conditions of the general National Pollutant Discharge Elimination 
    System (NPDES) permit that authorizes the storm water discharges 
    associated with industrial activity from the construction site 
    identified as part of this certification.''
    
        All certifications must be included in the storm water pollution 
    prevention plan.
    
    E. Retention of Records
    
        The permittee is required to retain records or copies of all 
    reports required by this permit, including storm water pollution 
    prevention plans and records of all data used to complete the NOI to be 
    covered by the permit, for a period of at least three years from the 
    date of
    
    [[Page 15634]]
    
    final stabilization. This period may be extended by request of the 
    Director.
    
    F. Notice of Termination
    
        A discharger may submit a Notice of Termination (NOT) to EPA in two 
    sets of circumstances: (1) After a site has undergone final 
    stabilization and the facility no longer discharges storm water 
    associated with industrial activity from a construction site and (2) 
    when the permittee has transferred operational control to another 
    permittee and is no longer an operator for the site. NOTs must be 
    submitted using the form provided by the Director (or a photocopy 
    thereof). A copy of the NOT form is in Appendix B and can be 
    photocopied for use. NOTs will assist EPA in tracking the status of the 
    discharger.
        Today's permit define final stabilization for the purpose of 
    submitting an NOT as occurring when all soil disturbing activities are 
    completed and a uniform perennial vegetative cover with a density of 70 
    percent for the unpaved areas and areas not covered by permanent 
    structures has been established or equivalent stabilization measures 
    have been employed. Equivalent stabilization measures include permanent 
    measures other than establishing vegetation, such as the use of rip-
    rap, gabions, and/or geotextiles.
        A copy of the NOT, and instructions for completing the NOT, are 
    provided in Appendix B of today's document. The NOT form requires the 
    following information:
         The mailing address of the construction site for which the 
    notification is submitted. Where a mailing address for the site is not 
    available, the location of the approximate center of the site must be 
    described in terms of the latitude and longitude to the nearest 15 
    seconds, or the section, township, and range to the nearest quarter.
         The site owner's name, address, and telephone number.
         The name, address, and telephone number of the operator 
    addressed by the NOT, and operator status as a Federal, State, private, 
    public, or other entity.
         The NPDES permit for the storm water discharge identified 
    by the NOT.
         The following certification:
    
        ``I certify under penalty of law that disturbed soils at the 
    identified facility have been finally stabilized and temporary 
    erosion and sediment control measures have been removed or will be 
    removed at an appropriate time, or that all storm water discharges 
    associated with construction activities from the identified site 
    that are authorized by an NPDES general permit have been eliminated 
    or that I am no longer the operator of the construction activity. I 
    understand that by submitting this notice of termination, that I am 
    no longer authorized to discharge storm water by the general permit, 
    and that discharging pollutants in storm water associated with 
    industrial activity to waters of the United States is unlawful under 
    the Clean Water Act where the discharge is not authorized by a NPDES 
    permit.''
    
        Notices of Termination are to be sent to the following address: 
    Storm Water Notice of Termination (4203), 401 M Street, S.W., 
    Washington, DC 20460.
        The NOT must be signed by the appropriate individual in accordance 
    with the signatory requirements of 40 CFR 122.22. A description of 
    these signatory requirements is provided in the instructions 
    accompanying the NOT (see Appendix B).
        Submittal of a NOT, by itself, does not relieve permittees from the 
    obligations of the permit, such as the requirement to stabilize the 
    site. Appropriate enforcement actions may still be taken for permit 
    violations where a permittee submits a NOT but the permittee has not 
    transferred operational control to another permittee or the site has 
    not undergone final stabilization.
    
    G. Regional Offices
    
        Notices of Intent to be authorized to discharge under this permit 
    should be sent to: Storm Water Notice of Intent (4203), 401 M Street, 
    SW., Washington, DC 20460.
        Other submittals of information required under this permit or 
    individual permit applications should be sent to the appropriate EPA 
    Regional Office: United States EPA, Region IV, Water Management 
    Division, (SWPFB-15), Surface Water Permits Section, 100 Alabama 
    Street, S.W., Atlanta, GA 30303-3104, Contact: Floyd Wellborn, (404) 
    562-9296.
    
    H. Special Conditions in Specified States
    
        Section 401 of the CWA provides that no Federal license or permit, 
    including NPDES permits, to conduct any activity that may result in any 
    discharge into navigable waters shall be granted until the State in 
    which the discharge originates certifies that the discharge will comply 
    with the applicable provisions of sections 301, 302, 303, 306, and 307 
    of the CWA.
    
    VII. Cost Estimates
    
        The two major costs associated with pollution prevention plans for 
    construction activities include the costs of sediment and erosion 
    controls (see Table 1) and the costs of storm water management measures 
    (see Table 2). Today's permit provide flexibility in developing 
    controls for construction activities. Typically, most construction 
    sites will employ several types of sediment and erosion controls and 
    storm water management controls, but not all the controls listed in 
    Tables 1 and 2. In general, sites that disturb a large area will incur 
    higher pollution prevention costs.
    
                  Table 1.--Sediment and Erosion Control Costs              
    ------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                            
    ------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Temporary seeding............  $1.00 per square foot.                   
    Permanent seeding............  1.00 per square foot.                    
    Mulching.....................  1.25 per square foot.                    
    Sod stabilization............  4.00 per square foot.                    
    Vegetative buffer strips.....  1.00 per square foot.                    
    Protection of trees..........  30.00 to $200.00 per tree set.           
    Earth dikes..................  5.50 per linear foot.                    
    Silt fences..................  6.00 per linear foot.                    
    Drainage swales-grass........  3.00 per square yard.                    
    Drainage swales-sod..........  4.00 per square yard.                    
    Drainage swales-asphalt......  35.00 per square yard.                   
    Drainage swales-concrete.....  65.00 per square yard.                   
    Check dams-rock..............  100 per dam.                             
    Check dams-covered straw       50 per dam.                              
     bales.                                                                 
    Level spreader-earthen.......  4.00 per square yard.                    
    Level spreader-concrete......  65.00 per square yard.                   
    Subsurface drain.............  2.25 per linear foot.                    
    
    [[Page 15635]]
    
                                                                            
    Pipe slope drain.............  5.00 per linear foot.                    
    Temporary storm drain          variable.                                
     diversion.                                                             
    Storm drain inlet protection.  300 per inlet.                           
    Rock outlet protection.......  45 per square yard.                      
    Sediment traps...............  500 to $7,000 per trap.                  
    Temporary sediment basins....  5,000 to $50,000 per basin.              
    Sump pit.....................  500 to $7,000.                           
    Entrance stabilization.......  1,500 to $5,000 per entrance.            
    Entrance wash rack...........  2,000 per rack.                          
    Temporary waterway crossing..  500 to $1,500.                           
    Wind breaks..................  2.50 per linear foot.                    
    ------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Practices such as sod stabilization and tree protection increase        
      property values and satisfy consumer aesthetic needs.                 
    Sources: ``Means Site Work Cost Data,'' 9th edition, 1990, R.S. Means   
      Company. ``Sediment and Erosion Control, An Inventory of Current      
      Practices,'' prepared by Kamber Engineering for U.S. EPA, April 1990. 
    
    
    Table 2.--Annualized Costs of Several Storm Water Management Options for
                               Construction Sites                           
    ------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                Annualized      Annualized  
                                                cost for 9-    cost for 20- 
                     Option                   acre developed  acre developed
                                                   area            area     
    ------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Wet Ponds...............................          $5,872          $9,820
    Dry Ponds...............................           3,240           5,907
    Dry Ponds with Extended Detention.......           3,110           5,413
    Infiltration Trenches...................           4,134           6,359
    ------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        Estimates based on methodology presented in ``Cost of Urban Runoff 
    Quality Controls,'' Wiegand, C., Schueler, T., Chittenden, W., and 
    Jellick, D., Urban Runoff Quality-Impact and Quality Enhancement 
    Technology, Proceedings of an Engineering Foundation Conference, ASCE, 
    1986, edited by B. Urbonas and L.A. Roesner.
        Costs are presented in 1992 dollars and were reviewed by the Office 
    of Management and Budget during the previous issuance of this permit, 
    September 25, 1992. Annualized costs are based on a 10 year period and 
    10 percent discount rate. Estimates include a contingency cost of 25 
    percent of the construction cost and operation and maintenance costs of 
    5 percent of the construction cost. Land costs are not included.
    
    VIII. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act
    
        Title II of the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (UMRA), Pub. 
    Law 104-4, establishes requirements for Federal agencies to assess the 
    effects of their regulatory actions on State, local, and Tribal 
    governments and the private sector. Under UMRA section 202, EPA 
    generally must prepare a written statement, including a cost-benefit 
    analysis, for proposed and final rules with ``Federal mandates'' that 
    may result in expenditures to State, local, and Tribal governments, in 
    the aggregate, or to the private sector, of $100 million or more in any 
    one year. Before promulgating an EPA rule for which a written statement 
    is needed, UMRA section 205 generally requires EPA to identify and 
    consider a reasonable number of regulatory alternatives and adopt the 
    least costly, most cost-effective or least burdensome alternative that 
    achieves the objectives of the rule. The provisions of UMRA section 205 
    do not apply when they are inconsistent with applicable law. Moreover, 
    UMRA section 205 allows EPA to adopt an alternative other than the 
    least costly, most cost-effective or least burdensome alternative if 
    the Administrator publishes an explanation with the final rule why the 
    alternative was not adopted.
        Before EPA establishes any regulatory requirements that may 
    significantly or uniquely affect small governments, including Tribal 
    governments, it must have developed under UMRA section 203 a small 
    government agency plan. The plan must provide for notifying potentially 
    affected small governments, enabling officials of affected small 
    governments to have meaningful and timely input in the development of 
    EPA regulatory proposals with significant Federal intergovernmental 
    mandates, and informing, educating and advising small governments on 
    compliance with the regulatory requirements.
    
    A. UMRA Section 202 and the Construction General Permit
    
        UMRA section 202 requires a written statement containing certain 
    assessments, estimates and analyses prior to the promulgation of 
    certain general notices of proposed rulemaking (2 U.S.C. 1532). UMRA 
    section 421(10) defines ``rule'' based on the definition of rule in the 
    Regulatory Flexibility Act. Section 601 of the Regulatory Flexibility 
    Act defines ``rule'' to mean any rule for which an agency publishes a 
    general notice of proposed rulemaking pursuant to section 553 of the 
    Administrative Procedure Act. EPA does not propose to issue NPDES 
    general permits based on APA section 553. Instead, EPA relies on 
    publication of general permits in the Federal Register in order to 
    provide ``an opportunity for a hearing'' under CWA section 402(a), 33 
    U.S.C. 1342(a). Nonetheless, EPA has evaluated permitting alternatives 
    for regulation of storm water discharges associated with construction 
    activity. The general permit that EPA proposes to re-issue would be 
    virtually the same NPDES general permit for construction that many 
    construction operators have used over the past five years. Furthermore, 
    general permits provide a more cost and time efficient alternative for 
    the regulated community to obtain NPDES permit coverage than that 
    provided through individually drafted permits.
    
    B. UMRA Section 203 and the Construction General Permit
    
        Agencies are required to prepare small government agency plans 
    under UMRA section 203 prior to establishing any regulatory requirement 
    that might significantly or uniquely affect small governments. 
    ``Regulatory requirements'' might, for example, include the 
    requirements of this NPDES general permit for discharges associated 
    with construction activity, especially if
    
    [[Page 15636]]
    
    a municipality sought coverage under one of the general permit. EPA 
    envisions that some municipalities--those with municipal separate storm 
    sewer systems serving a population over 100,000--may elect to seek 
    coverage under this general permit. For many municipalities, however, a 
    permit application is not required until August 7, 2001, for a storm 
    water discharge associated with construction activity where the 
    construction site is owned or operated by a municipality with a 
    population of less than 100,000. (See 40 CFR 122.26(e)(1)(ii)&(g)).
        In any event, any such permit requirements would not significantly 
    affect small governments because most State laws already provide for 
    the control of sedimentation and erosion in a similar manner as today's 
    general permit. Permit requirements also would not uniquely affect 
    small governments because compliance with the permit's conditions 
    affects small governments in the same manner as any other entity 
    seeking coverage under the permit. Thus, UMRA section 203 would not 
    apply.
    
    IX. Paperwork Reduction Act
    
        EPA has reviewed the requirements imposed on regulated facilities 
    in this final general permit under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1980, 
    44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq. EPA did not prepare an Information Collection 
    Request (ICR) document for today's permit because the information 
    collection requirements in this permit have already been approved by 
    the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) in submissions made for the 
    NPDES permit program under the provisions of the Clean Water Act.
    
    X. Regulatory Flexibility Act
    
        Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act, U.S.C. 601 et. seq., EPA is 
    required to prepare a Regulatory Flexibility Analysis to assess the 
    impact of rules on small entities. No Regulatory Flexibility Analysis 
    is required, however, where the head of the agency certifies that the 
    rule will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial 
    number of small entities.
        Today's permit provides small entities with an application option 
    that is less burdensome than individual applications or participating 
    in a group application. The other requirements have been designed to 
    minimize significant economic impacts of the rule on small entities and 
    does not have a significant impact on industry. In addition, the permit 
    reduces significant administrative burdens on regulated sources. 
    Accordingly, I hereby certify pursuant to the provisions of the 
    Regulatory Flexibility Act, that this permit will not have a 
    significant impact on a substantial number of small entities.
    
    XI. Responses to Comments
    
        The following is a summary of the issues identified by EPA that 
    were raised regarding the general permit for storm water from 
    construction activities and EPA's response to those issues.
        Comments were submitted wanting language added to the permit to 
    require applicants to conduct a cultural resource assessment to 
    determine if permitted activities will impact areas which have been 
    previously undisturbed other than by agriculture. EPA believes that it 
    would not be feasible to review all applications for an assessment due 
    to the volume of applicants and the short time requirement, prior to 
    construction, that a facility must submit a Notice of Intent (NOI) to 
    receive coverage under the general permit. Under the previous permit, 
    there were 2844 NOIs submitted and the permit only requires an NOI to 
    be submitted two (2) days prior to construction beginning. However; EPA 
    maintains a database tracking system of all NOI submittals. Copies of 
    this database are available upon request. One could then screen the 
    database based on the location of the facility in relation to an area 
    of concern. The permit only allows coverage under the general permit 
    for facilities which do not affect property that is listed or proposed 
    to be listed in the National Historic Register. Should screening of the 
    database identify a facility that is not eligible for coverage under 
    the general permit in accordance with Part I.B.3.g., EPA would require 
    the facility to apply for an individual permit.
        Comments were submitted requesting that the requirements for 
    utility companies to apply for general permit coverage be taken out of 
    Parts I.B.3. and II.B of the permit. The references to utility 
    companies have been deleted from Part I.B.3. in today's permit. 
    Although utility companies in Region 4 will not be required to obtain 
    coverage under the above referenced permit by virtue of the fact that 
    they are a utility company, it should be noted that if the utility 
    company has day to day operational control of the construction site. 
    They would be required to submit an NOI under the provisions of Part 
    II.B.2.
        One Indian tribe submitted comments requesting deletion of the 
    requirement for facilities to obtain a Florida Department of 
    Environmental Protection (FDEP) or a Florida Water Management District 
    (FWMD) permit (see Part II.A.2.). Since the tribes are not under the 
    jurisdiction of either the FDEP nor the FWMD, this provision is not 
    applicable. Today's permit exempts facilities on Indian country lands 
    from that permit requirement.
        One commenter requested the name, number and address of the 
    Historic Preservation Officer for the State of Florida. The name, 
    address and phone number of the State Historic Preservation Officer 
    (SHPO) for the State of Florida is the Director, Division of Historical 
    Resources, Florida Department of State, R. A. Gray Building, 500 South 
    Bronough Street, Tallahassee, FL 32399-0250, 850/487-2333.
        One commenter suggested that EPA's requirement to consider impacts 
    to threatened resources is overly broad and ambiguous. The commenter 
    expressed a concern over being responsible for an entire watershed. A 
    facility discharging to a watershed with many contributors of pollution 
    would not be solely responsible for impacts downstream from the 
    discharge point where the other sources have contributed to the impact. 
    However, the facility would be held responsible for their particular 
    contribution to a downstream impact. In the case of the Endangered 
    Species Act, the permit does specifically limit the consideration of 
    impact on species to the immediate area or vicinity of the discharge 
    authorized by the permit and the Best Management Practices (BMPs) 
    required by the permit (see Appendix C, step 2). The flexibility of 
    ``immediate area or vicinity'' is intentional. Any more specific 
    definition of the area of effects would be inappropriate due to the 
    variation and complexity of conditions (e.g. size, slope, soil, etc.) 
    from site to site. This language is intended to encourage coordination 
    with local resource protection agencies and not to provide a cutoff 
    distance beyond which a facility is absolved from responsibility. In 
    the case of the National Historic Preservation Act, the language 
    reflects the Act itself. EPA believes that an addition to this language 
    in this case would compromise the intent of NHPA consultation 
    requirements of the permit.
        One commenter said that EPA, Region 4, has created a burden since 
    they are issuing a separate permit from HQ therefore requiring a single 
    company with multiple facilities in different states to potentially 
    keep up with many different permits. A concern was also expressed 
    regarding burdens on facilities which potentially adversely affect 
    protected resources since consultants will have to be hired and 
    potential changes to industrial processes
    
    [[Page 15637]]
    
    will have to be made. As in the previous national permit, different 
    requirements for facilities in different states will be incorporated in 
    a reissued national permit due to the Clean Water Act section 401 
    certification of the permit by each state. Therefore, consolidation of 
    the Region 4 permit into the national permit will not eliminate the 
    differences in permit requirements on a state by state basis. The 
    requirements to consult on the potential adverse effects on protected 
    resources comes from the ESA and the NHPA requirement for consistency 
    with the Acts in all federal actions, such as a permit. The NPDES 
    permit simply makes the permittee aware that the NPDES permit cannot 
    and does not authorize or require an activity that would violate the 
    ESA or the NHPA. A facility adversely affecting a protected resource 
    would only be ineligible for coverage under the general permit. An 
    individual permit would still be an option and the specific 
    requirements would have to be determined at that time.
    
    XII. Section 401 Certification
    
        Certification of the proposed permit was requested from the State 
    of Florida by letter dated June 23, 1997. The Florida Department of 
    Environmental Protection (FDEP) issued certification of the proposed 
    permit with conditions via a letter dated August 18, 1997. 
    Certification of the proposed permit was requested from the Miccosukee 
    Tribe of Indians of Florida by letter dated June 23, 1997. 
    Certification of the proposed permit is deemed waived in accordance 
    with the provisions of 40 CFR 124.53(c). Certification of the proposed 
    permit was requested from the Seminole Tribe of Florida by letter dated 
    June 23, 1997. The Seminole Tribe of Florida provided certification of 
    the proposed permit via a letter dated December 18, 1997.
    
    XIII. Official Signatures
    
        Accordingly, I hereby certify pursuant to the provisions of the 
    Regulatory Flexibility Act, that this permit will not have a 
    significant impact on a substantial number of small entities.
    
        Authority: Clean Water Act, 33 USC 1251 et seq.
    
        Dated: February 17, 1998.
    A. Stanley Meiburg,
    Acting Regional Administrator, Region 4.
    
    Appendix A
    
        From the effective date of this permit, applicants are to use 
    the existing Notice of Intent form (EPA 3510-9, published in the 
    March 6, 1998 Federal Register, 63 FR 11253) referenced in this 
    Addendum to obtain permit coverage. According to the provisions in 
    Part II.B. of this permit, applicants are reminded that they are 
    certifying that they meet all eligibility requirements of Part I.B. 
    of this permit and are informing the Director of their intent to be 
    covered by, and comply with, those terms and conditions. These 
    conditions include certifications that the applicant's storm water 
    discharges and storm water-related discharge activities will not 
    adversely affect listed endangered or threatened species, their 
    critical habitat, or places either listed or eligible for listing on 
    the National Register of Historic Places.
    
    Appendix B
    
        From the effective date of this permit, permittees are to use 
    the existing Notice of Termination form (EPA Form 3510-7) contained 
    in this Addendum until they are instructed by the Director (EPA) to 
    use a revised version. Permittees are to complete, sign and submit 
    the form in accordance with Part VII.G of the permit when 
    terminating permit coverage at a construction project when one or 
    more of the conditions contained in Part IX have been met.
    
    Appendix C--Endangered Species Guidance
    
    I. Instructions
    
        A list of species that EPA has determined may be affected by the 
    activities covered by the construction general permit will be 
    included in the final issued permit. These species will be listed by 
    county. In order to get construction general permit coverage, 
    applicants must:
         Indicate in box provided on the NOI whether any species 
    listed in this Appendix are in proximity to the facility, and
         Certify pursuant to Section I.B.3.e. of the 
    construction general permit that their storm water discharges, and 
    BMPs constructed to control storm water runoff, are not likely, and 
    will not be likely to adversely affect species identified in 
    Addendum H of this permit.
        To do this, please follow steps 1 through 4 below.
    
    Step 1: Review the County Species List Below To Determine if Any 
    Species Are Located in the Discharging Facility County
    
        If the facility is within one (1) mile of the county line, a 
    review of the bordering county's list must be made as well to 
    determine the presence of species. If no species are listed in a 
    facility's county, or adjacent county as mentioned in the previous 
    sentence, or if a facility's county is not found on the list, an 
    applicant is eligible for construction general permit coverage and 
    may indicate in the NOI that no species are found in proximity and 
    provide the necessary certification. If species are located in the 
    county, or in the adjacent county as mentioned above, follow step 2 
    below. Where a facility is located in more than one county, the 
    lists for all counties should be reviewed.
    
    Step 2: Determine if Any Species May Be Found ``In Proximity'' to the 
    Facility
    
        A species is in proximity to a facility's storm water discharge 
    when the species is:
         Located in the path or immediate area through which or 
    over which contaminated point source storm water flows from 
    industrial activities to the point of discharge into the receiving 
    water.
         Located in the immediate vicinity of, or nearby, the 
    point of discharge into receiving waters.
         Located in the area of a site where storm water BMPs 
    are planned or are to be constructed.
        The area in proximity to be searched/surveyed for listed species 
    will vary with the size of the facility, the nature and quantity of 
    the storm water discharges, and the type of receiving waters. Given 
    the number of facilities potentially covered by the construction 
    general permit, no specific method to determine whether species are 
    in proximity is required for permit coverage under the construction 
    general permit. Instead, applicants should use the method or methods 
    which best allow them to determine to the best of their knowledge 
    whether species are in proximity to their particular facility. These 
    methods may include:
         Conducting visual inspections: This method may be 
    particularly suitable for facilities that are smaller in size, 
    facilities located in non-natural settings such as highly urbanized 
    areas or industrial parks where there is little or no nature 
    habitat; and facilities that discharge directly into municipal storm 
    water collection systems. For other facilities, a visual survey of 
    the facility site and storm water drainage areas may be insufficient 
    to determine whether species are likely to be located in proximity 
    to the discharge.
         Contacting the nearest State Wildlife Agency or U.S. 
    Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) or National Marine Fisheries Service 
    (NMFS) offices. Many endangered and threatened species are found in 
    well-defined areas or habitats. That information is frequently known 
    to state or federal wildlife agencies. FWS has offices in every 
    state. NMFS has regional offices in: Gloucester, Massachusetts; St. 
    Petersburg, Florida; Long Beach, California; Portland, Oregon; and 
    Juneau, Alaska.
         Contacting local/regional conservation groups. These 
    groups inventory species and their locations and maintain lists of 
    sightings and habitats.
         Conducting a formal biological survey. Larger 
    facilities with extensive storm water discharges may choose to 
    conduct biological surveys as the most effective way to assess 
    whether species are located in proximity and whether there are 
    likely adverse effects.
        If no species are in proximity, an applicant is eligible for 
    construction general permit coverage and may indicate that in the 
    NOI and provide the necessary certification. If listed species are 
    found in proximity to a facility, applicants must follow step 3 
    below.
    
    Step 3: Determine if Species Could Be Adversely Affected by the 
    Facility's Storm Water Discharges or by BMPS To Control Those 
    Discharges
    
        Scope of Adverse Effects: Potential adverse effects from storm 
    water include:
         Hydrological. Storm water may cause siltation, 
    sedimentation or induce other changes in the receiving waters such 
    as temperature, salinity or pH. These effects will vary with the 
    amount of storm water discharged and the volume and condition of the 
    receiving water. Where a storm water discharge constitutes a minute 
    portion of the
    
    [[Page 15638]]
    
    total volume of the receiving water, adverse hydrological effects 
    are less likely.
         Habitat. Storm water may drain or inundate listed 
    species habitat.
         Toxicity. In some cases, pollutants in storm water may 
    have toxic effects on listed species.
        The scope of effects to consider will vary with each site. 
    Applicants must also consider the likelihood of adverse effects on 
    species from any BMPs to control storm water. Most adverse impacts 
    from BMPs are likely to occur from the construction activities.
        Using earlier ESA authorizations for construction general permit 
    eligibility: In some cases, a facility may be eligible for 
    construction general permit coverage because actual or potential 
    adverse affects were addressed or discounted through an earlier ESA 
    authorization. Examples of such authorization include:
         An earlier ESA section 7 consultation for that 
    facility.
         A section 10(a) permit issued for the facility.
         An area-wide Habitat Conservation Plan applicable to 
    that facility.
         A clearance letter from the Services (which discounts 
    the possibility of an adverse impacts from the facility).
        In order for applicants to use an earlier ESA authorization to 
    meet eligibility requirements: (1) The authorization must adequately 
    address impacts for storm water discharges and BMPs from the 
    facility on endangered and threatened species, (2) it must be 
    current because there have been no subsequent changes in facility 
    operations or circumstances which might impact species in ways not 
    considered in the earlier authorization, and (3) the applicant must 
    comply with any requirements from those authorizations to avoid or 
    mitigate adverse effects to species. Applicants who wish to pursue 
    this approach should carefully review documentation for those 
    authorizations ensure that the above conditions are met.
        If adverse effects are not likely, an applicant is eligible for 
    construction general permit coverage and may indicate in the NOI 
    that species are found in proximity and provide the necessary 
    certification. If adverse effects are likely, follow step 4 below.
    
    Step 4: Determine if Measures Can Be Implemented To Avoid Any Adverse 
    Effects
    
        If an applicant determines that adverse effects are likely, it 
    can receive coverage if appropriate measures are undertaken to avoid 
    or eliminate any actual or potential adverse affects prior to 
    applying for permit coverage. These measures may involve relatively 
    simple changes to facility operations such as re-routing a storm 
    water discharge to bypass an area where species are located.
        At this stage, applicants may wish to contact the FWS and/or 
    NMFS to see what appropriate measures might be suitable to avoid or 
    eliminate adverse impacts to species.
        If applicants adopt these measures, they must continue to abide 
    by them during the course of permit coverage.
        If appropriate measures are not available, the applicant is not 
    eligible at that time for coverage under the construction general 
    permit. Applicants should contact the appropriate EPA regional 
    office about either:
         Entering into Section 7 consultation in order to obtain 
    construction general permit coverage, or
         Obtaining an individual NPDES storm water permit.
    
      Federally Listed Threatened and Endangered Species and Candidates for 
                                 Federal Listing                            
    ------------------------------------------------------------------------
            Scientific name                Common name            Status    
    ------------------------------------------------------------------------
                ALABAMA                                                     
                                                                            
            Escambia County                                                 
    Reptiles:                                                               
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Snake, Eastern Indigo.  T              
        Pseudemys alabamensis......  Turtle, Alabama         E              
                                      redbelly.                             
    Birds:                                                                  
        Mycteria americana.........  Stork, Wood...........  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Woodpecker, Red-        E              
                                      cockaded.                             
    Fish:                                                                   
        Acipenser oxyrinchus         Gulf sturgeon.........  T              
         desotoi.                                                           
                                                                            
                FLORIDA                                                     
                                                                            
             Alachua County                                                 
    Mammals:                                                                
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Bear, Florida Black...  C              
    Birds:                                                                  
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Eagle, Bald...........  T              
        Aphelocoma coerulescens....  Scrub-jay, Florida....  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Stork, Wood...........  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Woodpecker, Red-        E              
                                      cockaded.                             
    Reptiles:                                                               
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Snake, Eastern Indigo.  T              
    Crustaceans:                                                            
        Palaemonetes cummingi......  Shrimp, Squirrel        T              
                                      Chimney Cave (or                      
                                      Florida Cave).                        
              Baker County                                                  
    Mammals:                                                                
        Myotis grisescens..........  Bat, Gray.............  E              
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Bear, Florida Black...  C              
    Birds:                                                                  
        Mycteria americana.........  Stork, Wood...........  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Woodpecker, Red-        E              
                                      cockaded.                             
    Reptiles:                                                               
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Snake, Eastern Indigo.  T              
                                                                            
               Bay County                                                   
    Fish:                                                                   
        Acipenser oxyrinchus         Gulf sturgeon.........  T              
         desotoi.                                                           
    Amphibians and Reptiles:                                                
        Alligator mississippiensis.  American alligator....  T(S/A)         
        Caretta caretta caretta....  Loggerhead turtle.....  T              
        Chelonia mydas mydas.......  Green turtle..........  E              
        Dermochelys coriacea.......  Leatherback turtle....  E              
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Eastern indigo snake..  T              
    
    [[Page 15639]]
    
                                                                            
        Eretmochelys imbricata.....  Hawksbill turtle......  E              
        Lepidochelys kempi.........  Atlantic ridley.......  E              
    Birds:                                                                  
        Charadrius melodus.........  Piping plover.........  T              
        Falco peregrinus tundrius..  Arctic peregrine        E(S/A)         
                                      falcon.                               
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Bald eagle............  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Wood stork............  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Red-cockaded            E              
                                      woodpecker.                           
    Mammals:                                                                
        Peromyscus polionotus        Choctawhatchee beach    E              
         allophrys (critical          mouse.                                
         habitat in this County).                                           
        Peromyscus polionotus        St. Andrew beach mouse  C              
         peninsularis.                                                      
        Trichechus manatus           West Indian manatee...  E              
         latirostris.                                                       
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
    Plants:                                                                 
        Euphorbia telephioides.....  Telephus spurge.......  T              
        Macbridea alba.............  White birds-in-a-nest.  T              
        Paronychia chartacea.......  Papery whitlow-wort...  T              
        Pinguicula ionantha........  Godfrey's (violet)      T              
                                      butterwort.                           
                                                                            
            Bradford County                                                 
    Birds:                                                                  
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Eagle, Bald...........  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Stork, Wood...........  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Woodpecker, Red-        E              
                                      cockaded.                             
    Reptiles:                                                               
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Snake, Eastern Indigo.  T              
                                                                            
             Brevard County                                                 
    Mammals:                                                                
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Bear, Florida Black...  C              
        Trichechus manatus           Manatee, West Indian..  E/CH           
         latirostris.                                                       
        Peromyscus polionotus        Mouse, Southeastern     T              
         niveiventris.                Beach.                                
    Birds:                                                                  
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Eagle, Bald...........  T              
        Charadrius melodus.........  Plover, Piping........  T              
        Aphelocoma coerulescens....  Scrub-jay, Florida....  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Stork, Wood...........  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Woodpecker, Red-        E              
                                      cockaded.                             
    Reptiles:                                                               
        Nerodia clarkii (=fasciata)  Snake, Atlantic Salt    T              
         taeniata.                    Marsh.                                
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Snake, Eastern Indigo.  T              
        Chelonia mydas.............  Turtle, Green Sea.....  E              
        Eretmochelys imbricata.....  Turtle, Hawksbill Sea.  E              
        Dermochelys coriacea.......  Turtle, Leatherback     E              
                                      Sea.                                  
        Caretta caretta............  Turtle, Loggerhead Sea  T              
    Plants:                                                                 
        Warea carteri..............  Carter's Mustard......  E              
        Dicerandra cornutissima....  Mint, Longspurred.....  E              
                                                                            
             Broward County                                                 
                                                                            
    Amphibians and Reptiles:                                                
        Alligator mississippiensis.  American alligator....  T(S/A)         
        Caretta caretta............  Loggerhead sea turtle.  T              
        Chelonia mydas.............  Green sea turtle......  E              
        Dermochelys coriacea.......  Leatherback sea turtle  E              
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Eastern indigo snake..  T              
        Eretmochelys imbricata.....  Hawksbill sea turtle..  E              
        Lepidochelys kempii........  Kemp's (=Atlantic)      E              
                                      ridley sea turtle.                    
    Birds:                                                                  
        Ammodramus maritima........  Cape Sable seaside      E              
                                      sparrow.                              
        Campephilus principalis      Ivory-billed            E              
         principalis.                 woodpecker.                           
        Charadrius melodus.........  Piping plover.........  T              
        Dendroica kirtlandii.......  Kirtland's warbler....  E              
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Bald eagle............  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Wood stork............  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Red-cockaded            E              
                                      woodpecker.                           
        Polyborus (=Caracara)        Audubon's crested       T              
         plancus audubonii.           caracara.                             
        Rostrhamus sociabilis        Everglade snail kite..  E/CH           
         plumbeus.                                                          
        Sterna dougallii...........  Roseate tern..........  T              
        Vermivora bachmanii........  Bachman's warbler.....  E              
    Mammals:                                                                
        Felis concolor.............   Mountain lion........  T(S/A)         
        Felis concolor coryi.......  Florida panther.......  E              
    
    [[Page 15640]]
    
                                                                            
        Trichechus manatus           West Indian manatee...  E              
         latirostris.                                                       
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
    Plants:                                                                 
        Family Arecaceae                                                    
        Jacquemontia reclinata.....  Beach jacquemontia....  E              
                                                                            
             Calhoun County                                                 
    Fish:                                                                   
        Acipenser oxyrinchus         Gulf sturgeon.........  T              
         desotoi.                                                           
    Amphibians and Reptiles:                                                
        Alligator mississippiensis.  American alligator....  T(S/A)         
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Eastern indigo snake..  T              
    Birds:                                                                  
        Falco peregrinus tundrius..  Arctic peregrine        E(S/A)         
                                      falcon.                               
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Bald eagle............  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Wood stork............  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Red-cockaded            E              
                                      woodpecker.                           
    Mammals:                                                                
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
    Plants:                                                                 
        Spigelia gentianoides......  Gentian pinkroot......  E              
                                                                            
            Charlotte County                                                
                                                                            
    Amphibians and Reptiles:                                                
        Alligator mississippiensis.  American alligator....  T(S/A)         
        Caretta caretta............  Loggerhead sea turtle.  T              
        Chelonia mydas.............  Green sea turtle......  E              
        Dermochelys coriacea.......  Leatherback sea turtle  E              
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Eastern indigo snake..  T              
        Eretmochelys imbricata.....  Hawksbill sea turtle..  E              
        Lepidochelys kempii........  Kemp's (=Atlantic)      E              
                                      ridley sea turtle.                    
    Birds:                                                                  
        Aphelocoma coerulescens      Florida scrub jay.....  T              
         coerulescens.                                                      
        Campephilus principalis      Ivory-billed            E              
         principalis.                 woodpecker.                           
        Charadrius melodus.........  Piping plover.........  T              
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Bald eagle............  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Wood stork............  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Red-cockaded            E              
                                      woodpecker.                           
        Polyborus (=Caracara)        Audubon's crested       T              
         plancus audubonii.           caracara.                             
        Vermivora bachmanii........  Bachman's warbler.....  E              
    Mammals:                                                                
        Trichechus manatus           West Indian manatee...  E/CH           
         latirostris.                                                       
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
    Plants:                                                                 
        Family Anonaceae                                                    
            Deeringothamnus          Beautiful pawpaw......  E              
             pulchellus.                                                    
        Family Convolvulaceae                                               
            Bonamia grandiflora....  Florida bonamia.......  T              
                                                                            
             Citrus County                                                  
                                                                            
    Mammals:                                                                
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Bear, Florida Black...  C              
        Trichechus manatus           Manatee, West Indian..  E/CH           
         latirostris.                                                       
                                                                            
    Birds:                                                                  
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Eagle, Bald...........  T              
        Rostrhamus sociabilis        Kite, Everglade Snail.  E/CH           
         plumbeus.                                                          
        Aphelocoma coerulescens....  Scrub-jay, Florida....  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Stork, Wood...........  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Woodpecker, Red-        E              
                                      cockaded.                             
    Reptiles:                                                               
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Snake, Eastern Indigo.  T              
        Chelonia mydas.............  Turtle, Green Sea.....  E              
        Dermochelys coriacea.......  Turtle, Leatherback...  E              
        Caretta caretta............  Turtle, Loggerhead Sea  T              
    Fish:                                                                   
        Acipenser oxyrhynchus        Sturgeon, Gulf........  T              
         desotoi.                                                           
    Plants:                                                                 
        Verbena tampensis..........  Vervain, Tampa........  C              
              Clay County                                                   
    Mammals:                                                                
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Bear, Florida Black...  C              
        Trichechus manatus           Manatee, West Indian..  E/CH           
         latirostris.                                                       
    Birds:                                                                  
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Eagle, Bald...........  T              
    
    [[Page 15641]]
    
                                                                            
        Aphelocoma coerulescens....  Scrub-jay, Florida....  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Stork, Wood...........  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Woodpecker, Red-        E              
                                      cockaded.                             
    Reptiles:                                                               
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Snake, Eastern Indigo.  T              
    Fish:                                                                   
        Acipenser brevirostrum.....  Sturgeon, Shortnose...  E              
    Plants:                                                                 
        Rhododendron chapmanii.....  Rhododendron,           E              
                                      Chapman's.                            
                                                                            
             Collier County                                                 
                                                                            
    Amphibians and Reptiles:                                                
        Alligator mississippiensis.  American alligator....  T(S/A)         
        Caretta caretta............  Loggerhead sea turtle.  T              
        Chelonia mydas.............  Green sea turtle......  E              
        Crocodylus acutus..........  American crocodile....  E              
        Dermochelys coriacea.......  Leatherback sea turtle  E              
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Eastern indigo snake..  T              
        Eretmochelys imbricata.....  Hawksbill sea turtle..  E              
        Lepidochelys kempii........  Kemp's (=Atlantic)      E              
                                      ridley sea turtle.                    
    Birds:                                                                  
        Ammodramus maritima........  Cape Sable seaside      E/CH           
                                      sparrow.                              
        Aphelocoma coerulescens      Florida scrub jay.....  T              
         coerulescens.                                                      
        Campephilus principalis      Ivory-billed            E              
         principalis.                 woodpecker.                           
        Charadrius melodus.........  Piping plover.........  T              
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Bald eagle............  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Wood stork............  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Red-cockaded            E              
                                      woodpecker.                           
        Polyborus (=Caracara)        Audubon's crested       T              
         plancus audubonii.           caracara.                             
        Rostrhamus sociabilis        Everglade snail kite..  E              
         plumbeus.                                                          
        Vermivora bachmanii........  Bachman's warbler.....  E              
    Mammals:                                                                
        Felis concolor.............  Mountain lion.........  T(S/A)         
        Felis concolor coryi.......  Florida panther.......  E              
        Trichechus manatus           West Indian manatee...  E/CH           
         latirostris.                                                       
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
    Plants:                                                                 
        Family Apiaceae:                                                    
                                                                            
            Eryngium cuneifolium...  Snakeroot.............  E              
                                                                            
            Columbia County:                                                
                                                                            
    Mammals:                                                                
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
    Birds:                                                                  
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Eagle, Bald...........  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Stork, Wood...........  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Woodpecker, Red-        E              
                                      cockaded.                             
    Reptiles:                                                               
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Snake, Eastern Indigo.  T              
    Fish:                                                                   
        Acipenser oxyrhynchus        Sturgeon, Gulf........  T              
         desotoi.                                                           
                                                                            
              Dade County                                                   
                                                                            
    Amphibians and Reptiles:                                                
        Alligator mississippiensis.  American alligator....  T(S/A)         
        Caretta caretta............  Loggerhead sea turtle.  T              
        Chelonia mydas.............  Green sea turtle......  E              
        Crocodylus acutus..........  American crocodile....  E/CH           
        Dermochelys coriacea.......  Leatherback sea turtle  E              
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Eastern indigo snake..  T              
        Eretmochelys imbricata.....  Hawksbill sea turtle..  E              
        Lepidochelys kempii........  Kemp's (=Atlantic)      E              
                                      ridley sea turtle.                    
    Birds:                                                                  
        Ammodramus maritima........  Cape Sable seaside      E/CH           
                                      sparrow.                              
        Campephilus principalis      Ivory-billed            E              
         principalis.                 woodpecker.                           
        Charadrius melodus.........  Piping plover.........  T              
        Dendroica kirtlandii.......  Kirtland's warbler....  E              
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Bald eagle............  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Wood stork............  E              
        Rostrhamus sociabilis        Everglade snail kite..  E/CH           
         plumbeus.                                                          
        Sterna dougallii...........  Roseate tern..........  T              
        Vermivora bachmanii........  Bachman's warbler.....  E              
    Mammals:                                                                
    
    [[Page 15642]]
    
                                                                            
        Eumops glaucinus floridanus  Florida Mastiff bat...  C              
        Felis concolor.............  Mountain lion.........  T(S/A)         
        Felis concolor coryi.......  Florida panther.......  E              
        Trichechus manatus           West Indian manatee...  E/CH           
         latirostris.                                                       
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
    Plants:                                                                 
        Family Convolvulaceae                                               
            Jacquemontia reclinata.  Beach jacquemontia....  E              
        Family Euphorbiaceae                                                
            Euphorbia deltoidea      Deltoid spurge........  E              
             var. deltoidea.                                                
            Euphorbia garberi......  Garber's spurge.......  T              
        Family Fabaceae                                                     
            Amorpha crenulata......  Crenulate lead plant..  E              
            Galactia smallii.......  Small's milkpea.......  E              
        Family Polygalaceae                                                 
            Polygala smallii.......  Tiny polygala.........  E              
                                                                            
             Desoto County                                                  
                                                                            
    Amphibians and Reptiles:                                                
        Alligator mississippiensis.  American alligator....  T(S/A)         
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Eastern indigo snake..  T              
    Birds:                                                                  
        Ammodramus savannarum        Florida grasshopper     E              
         floridanus.                  sparrow.                              
        Aphelocoma coerulescens      Florida scrub jay.....  T              
         coerulescens.                                                      
        Campephilus principalis      Ivory-billed            E              
         principalis.                 woodpecker.                           
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Bald eagle............  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Wood stork............  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Red-cockaded            E              
                                      woodpecker.                           
        Polyborus (=Caracara)        Audubon's crested       T              
         plancus audubonii.           caracara.                             
        Vermivora bachmanii........  Bachman's warbler.....  E              
    Mammals:                                                                
        Felis concolor.............  Mountain lion.........  T(S/A)         
        Felis concolor coryi.......  Florida panther.......  E              
        Trichechus manatus           West Indian manatee...  E/CH           
         latirostrus.                                                       
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
                                                                            
              Dixie County                                                  
    Mammals:                                                                
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
        Trichechus manatus           Manatee, West Indian..  E/CH           
         latirostris.                                                       
    Birds:                                                                  
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Eagle, Bald...........  T              
        Aphelocoma coerulescens....  Scrub-jay, Florida....  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Stork, Wood...........  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Woodpecker, Red-        E              
                                      cockaded.                             
    Reptiles:                                                               
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Snake, Eastern Indigo.  T              
        Chelonia mydas.............  Turtle, Green Sea.....  E              
        Dermochelys coriacea.......  Turtle, Leatherback     E              
                                      Sea.                                  
        Caretta caretta............  Turtle, Loggerhead Sea  T              
    Fish:                                                                   
        Acipenser oxyrhynchus        Sturgeon, Gulf........  T              
         desotoi.                                                           
              Duval County                                                  
    Mammals:                                                                
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Bear, Florida Black...  C              
        Trichechus manatus           Manatee, West Indian..  E/CH           
         latirostris.                                                       
    Birds:                                                                  
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Eagle, Bald...........  T              
        Charadrius melodus.........  Plover, Piping........  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Stork, Wood...........  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Woodpecker, Red-        E              
                                      cockaded.                             
    Reptiles:                                                               
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Snake, Eastern Indigo.  T              
        Chelonia mydas.............  Turtle, Green Sea.....  E              
        Eretmochelys imbricata.....  Turtle, Hawksbill Sea.  E              
        Dermochelys coriacea.......  Turtle, Leatherback     E              
                                      Sea.                                  
        Caretta caretta............  Turtle, Loggerhead Sea  T              
    Fish:                                                                   
        Acipenser brevirostrum.....  Sturgeon, Shortnose...  E              
                                                                            
            Escambia County                                                 
    Fish:                                                                   
        Acipenser oxyrinchus         Gulf sturgeon.........  T              
         desotoi.                                                           
    Amphibians and Reptiles:                                                
    
    [[Page 15643]]
    
                                                                            
        Alligator mississippiensis.  American alligator....  T(S/A)         
        Caretta caretta caretta....  Loggerhead turtle.....  T              
        Chelonia mydas mydas.......  Green turtle..........  E              
        Dermochelys coriacea.......  Leatherback turtle....  E              
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Eastern indigo snake..  T              
        Eretmochelys imbricata.....  Hawksbill turtle......  E              
        Lepidochelys kempi.........  Atlantic ridley.......  E              
    Birds:                                                                  
        Charadrius melodus.........  Piping plover.........  T              
        Falco peregrinus tundrius..  Arctic peregrine        E(S/A)         
                                      falcon.                               
        Mycteria americana.........  Wood stork............  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Red-cockaded            E              
                                      woodpecker.                           
    Mammals:                                                                
        Peromyscus polionotus        Perdido Key beach       E/CH           
         trissyllepsis.               mouse.                                
        Trichechus manatus           West Indian manatee...  E              
         latirostris.                                                       
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
                                                                            
             Flagler County                                                 
    Mammals:                                                                
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
        Trichechus manatus           Manatee, West Indian..  E/CH           
         latirostris.                                                       
    Birds:                                                                  
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Eagle, Bald...........  T              
        Aphelocoma coerulescens....  Scrub-jay, Florida....  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Stork, Wood...........  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Woodpecker, Red-        E              
                                      cockaded.                             
    Birds:                                                                  
        Aphelocoma coerulescens....  Scrub-jay, Florida....  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Stork, Wood...........  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Woodpecker, Red-        E              
                                      cockaded.                             
    Reptiles:                                                               
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Snake, Eastern Indigo.  T              
        Chelonia mydas.............  Turtle, Green Sea.....  E              
        Eretmochelys imbricata.....  Turtle, Hawksbill Sea.  E              
        Dermochelys coriacea.......  Turtle, Leatherback     E              
                                      Sea.                                  
        Caretta caretta............  Turtle, Loggerhead Sea  T              
                                                                            
            Franklin County                                                 
    Fish:                                                                   
        Acipenser oxyrinchus         Gulf sturgeon.........  T              
         desotoi.                                                           
    Amphibians and Reptiles:                                                
        Alligator mississippiensis.  American alligator....  T(S/A)         
        Caretta caretta caretta....  Loggerhead turtle.....  T              
        Chelonia mydas mydas.......  Green turtle..........  E              
        Dermochelys coriacea.......  Leatherback turtle....  E              
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Eastern indigo snake..  T              
        Eretmochelys imbricata.....  Hawksbill turtle......  E              
        Lepidochelys kempi.........  Atlantic ridley.......  E              
    Birds:                                                                  
        Charadrius melodus.........  Piping plover.........  T              
        Falco peregrinus tundrius..  Arctic peregrine        E(S/A)         
                                      falcon.                               
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Bald eagle............  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Wood stork............  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Red-cockaded            E              
                                      woodpecker.                           
    Mammals:                                                                
        Trichechus manatus           West Indian manatee...  E              
         latirostris.                                                       
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
    Plants:                                                                 
        Euphorbia telephioides.....  Telephus spurge.......  T              
        Harperocallis flava........  Harper's beauty.......  E              
        Macbridea alba.............  White birds-in-a-nest.  T              
        Pinguicula ionantha........  Godfrey's (violet)      T              
                                      butterwort.                           
        Scutellaria floridana......  Florida skullcap......  T              
                                                                            
             Gadsden County                                                 
    Fish:                                                                   
        Acipenser oxyrinchus         Gulf sturgeon.........  T              
         desotoi.                                                           
    Amphibians and Reptiles:                                                
        Alligator mississippiensis.  American alligator....  T(S/A)         
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Eastern indigo snake..  T              
    Birds:                                                                  
        Falco peregrinus tundrius..  Arctic peregrine        E(S/A)         
                                      falcon.                               
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Bald eagle............  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Wood stork............  E              
    
    [[Page 15644]]
    
                                                                            
    Mammals:                                                                
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
    Plants                                                                  
        Rhododendron chapmanii.....  Chapman's rhododendron  E              
        Schwalbea americana........  American chaffseed....  E              
        Silene polypetala..........  Fringed campion.......  E              
        Spigelia gentianoides......  Gentian pinkroot......  E              
        Torreya taxifolia..........  Florida torreya.......  E              
            Gilchrist County                                                
    Fish:                                                                   
        Acipenser oxyrhynchus        Sturgeon, Gulf........  T              
         desotoi.                                                           
                                                                            
             Glades County                                                  
                                                                            
    Amphibians and Reptiles:                                                
        Alligator mississippiensis.  American alligator....  T(S/A)         
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Eastern indigo snake..  T              
    Birds:                                                                  
        Ammodramus savannarum        Florida grasshopper     E              
         floridanus.                  sparrow.                              
        Aphelocoma coerulescens      Florida scrub jay.....  T              
         coerulescens.                                                      
        Campephilus principalis      Ivory-billed            E              
         principalis.                 woodpecker.                           
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Bald eagle............  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Wood stork............  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Red-cockaded            E              
                                      woodpecker.                           
        Polyborus (=Caracara)        Audubon's crested       T              
         plancus audubonii.           caracara.                             
        Rostrhamus sociabilis        Everglade snail kite..  E/CH           
         plumbeus.                                                          
        Vermivora bachmanii........  Bachman's warbler.....  E              
    Mammals:                                                                
        Felis concolor.............  Mountain lion.........  T(S/A)         
        Felis concolor coryi.......  Florida panther.......  E              
        Trichechus manatus           West Indian manatee...  E              
         latirostris.                                                       
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
    Plants:                                                                 
        Family Arecaceae                                                    
        Cucurbita okeechobeensis     Okeechobee gourd......  E              
         ssp. okeechobeensis.                                               
                                                                            
              Gulf County                                                   
    Fish:                                                                   
        Acipenser oxyrinchus         Gulf sturgeon.........  T              
         desotoi.                                                           
    Amphibians and Reptiles:                                                
        Alligator mississippiensis.  American alligator....  T(S/A)         
        Caretta caretta caretta....  Loggerhead turtle.....  T              
        Chelonia mydas mydas.......  Green turtle..........  E              
        Dermochelys coriacea.......  Leatherback turtle....  E              
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Eastern indigo snake..  T              
        Eretmochelys imbricata.....  Hawksbill turtle......  E              
        Lepidochelys kempi.........  Atlantic ridley.......  E              
    Birds:                                                                  
        Charadrius melodus.........  Piping plover.........  T              
        Falco peregrinus tundrius..  Arctic peregrine        E(S/A)         
                                      falcon.                               
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Bald eagle............  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Wood stork............  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Red-cockaded            E              
                                      woodpecker.                           
    Mammals:                                                                
        Peromyscus polionotus        St. Andrew beach mouse  C              
         peninsularis.                                                      
        Trichechus manatus           West Indian manatee...  E              
         latirostris.                                                       
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
    Plants:                                                                 
        Euphorbia telephioides.....  Telephus spurge.......  T              
        Macbridea alba.............  White birds-in-a-nest.  T              
        Pinguicula ionantha........  Godfrey's (violet)      T              
                                      butterwort.                           
        Rhododendron chapmanii.....  Chapman's rhododendron  E              
        Scutellaria floridana......  Florida skullcap......  T              
                                                                            
            Hamilton County                                                 
    Mammals;                                                                
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
    Birds:                                                                  
        Mycteria americana.........  Stork, Wood...........  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Woodpecker, Red-        E              
                                      cockaded.                             
    Reptiles:                                                               
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Snake, Eastern Indigo.  T              
    Fish:                                                                   
        Acipenser oxyrhynchus        Sturgeon, Gulf........  T              
         desotoi.                                                           
                                                                            
    
    [[Page 15645]]
    
                                                                            
             Hardee County                                                  
                                                                            
    Amphibians and Reptiles:                                                
        Alligator mississippiensis.  American alligator....  T(S/A)         
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Eastern indigo snake..  T              
    Birds:                                                                  
        Aphelocoma coerulescens      Florida scrub jay.....  T              
         coerulescens.                                                      
        Campephilus principalis      Ivory-billed            E              
         principalis.                 woodpecker.                           
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Bald eagle............  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Wood stork............  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Red-cockaded            E              
                                      woodpecker.                           
        Polyborus (=Caracara)        Audubon's crested       T              
         plancus audubonii.           caracara.                             
        Vermivora bachmanii........  Bachman's warbler.....  E              
    Mammals:                                                                
        Felis concolor.............  Mountain lion.........  T(S/A)         
        Felis concolor coryi.......  Florida panther.......  E              
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
    Plants:                                                                 
        Family Convolvulaceae                                               
            Bonamia grandiflora....  Florida bonamia.......  T              
        Family Rosaceae                                                     
            Prunus geniculata......  Scrub plum............  E              
                                                                            
             Hendry County                                                  
                                                                            
    Amphibians and Reptiles:                                                
        Alligator mississippiensis.  American alligator....  T(S/A)         
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Eastern indigo snake..  T              
    Birds:                                                                  
        Aphelocoma coerulescens      Florida scrub jay.....  T              
         coerulescens.                                                      
        Campephilus principalis      Ivory-billed            E              
         principalis.                 woodpecker.                           
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Bald eagle............  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Wood stork............  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Red-cockaded            E              
                                      woodpecker.                           
        Polyborus (=Caracara)        Audubon's crested       T              
         plancus audubonii.           caracara.                             
        Rostrhamus sociabilis        Everglade snail kite..  E/CH           
         plumbeus.                                                          
        Vermivora bachmanii........  Bachman's warbler.....  E              
    Mammals:                                                                
        Felis concolor.............  Mountain lion.........  T(S/A)         
        Felis concolor coryi.......  Florida panther.......  E              
        Trichechus manatus           West Indian manatee...  E              
         latirostris.                                                       
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
                                                                            
            Hernando County                                                 
                                                                            
    Mammals:                                                                
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
        Trichechus manatus           Manatee, West Indian..  E/CH           
         latirostris.                                                       
    Birds:                                                                  
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Eagle, Bald...........  T              
        Aphelocoma coerulescens....  Scrub-jay, Florida....  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Stork, Wood...........  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Woodpecker, Red-        E              
                                      cockaded.                             
    Reptiles:                                                               
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Snake, Eastern Indigo.  T              
        Chelonia mydas.............  Turtle, Green Sea.....  E              
        Dermochelys coriacea.......  Turtle, Leatherback     E              
                                      Sea.                                  
        Caretta caretta............  Turtle, Loggerhead Sea  T              
    Fish:                                                                   
        Acipenser oxyrhynchus        Sturgeon, Gulf........  T              
         desotoi.                                                           
    Plants:                                                                 
        Nolina brittoniana.........  Beargrass, Britton's..  E              
        Campanula robinsiae........  Bellflower,             E              
                                      Brooksville.                          
        Justicia cooleyi...........  Water-willow, Cooley's  E              
                                                                            
            Highlands County                                                
                                                                            
    Amphibians and Reptiles:                                                
        Alligator mississippiensis.  American alligator....  T(S/A)         
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Eastern indigo snake..  T              
        Eumeces egregius lividus...  Blue-tailed mole skink  T              
        Neoseps reynoldsi..........  Sand skink............  T              
    Birds:                                                                  
        Ammodramus savannarum        Florida grasshopper     E              
         floridanus.                  sparrow.                              
        Aphelocoma coerulescens      Florida scrub jay.....  T              
         coerulescens.                                                      
        Campephilus principalis      Ivory-billed            E              
         principalis.                 woodpecker.                           
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Bald eagle............  T              
    
    [[Page 15646]]
    
                                                                            
        Mycteria americana.........  Wood stork............  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Red-cockaded            E              
                                      woodpecker.                           
        Polyborus (=Caracara)        Audubon's crested       T              
         plancus audubonii.           caracara.                             
        Vermivora bachmanii........  Bachman's warbler.....  E              
    Mammals:                                                                
        Felis concolor.............  Mountain lion.........  T(S/A)         
        Felis concolor coryi.......  Florida panther.......  E              
            Ursus americanus         Florida black bear....  C              
             floridanus.                                                    
    Plants:                                                                 
        Family Agavaceae                                                    
            Nolina brittoniana.....  Britton's beargrass...  E              
        Family Apiaceae                                                     
            Eryngium cuneifolium...  Snakeroot.............  E              
        Family Asteraceae                                                   
            Chrysopsis floridana...  Florida golden aster..  E              
            Liatris ohlingerae.....  Scrub blazing star....  E              
        Family Brassicaceae                                                 
            Warea carteri..........  Carter's mustard......  E              
        Family Caryophyllaceae                                              
            Paronychia chartacea...  Papery whitlow-wort...  T              
        Family Convolvulaceae                                               
            Bonamia grandiflora....  Florida bonamia.......  T              
        Family Fabaceae                                                     
            Clitoria fragrans......  Pigeon wing...........  T              
            Crotalaria avonensis...  Avon Park harebells...  E              
        Family Hypericaceae                                                 
            Hypericum cumulicola...  Highlands scrub         E              
                                      hypericum.                            
        Family Lamiaceae                                                    
            Conradina brevifolia...  Short-leaved rosemary.  E              
            Dicerandra frutescens..  Scrub mint............  E              
            Dicerandra christmanii.  Garrett's mint........  E              
        Family Oleaceae                                                     
            Chionanthus pygmaeus...  Pygmy fringetree......  E              
        Family Polygalacea                                                  
            Polygala lewtonii......  Lewton's polygala.....  E              
        Family Polygonaceae                                                 
            Eriogonum longifolium    Scrub buckwheat.......  T              
             var. gnaphalifolium.                                           
            Polygonella basiramia..  Wireweed..............  E              
            Polygonella myriophylla  Sandlace..............  E              
        Family Rhamnaceae                                                   
            Ziziphus celata........  Florida ziziphus......  E              
        Family Rosaceae                                                     
            Prunus geniculata......  Scrub plum............  E              
            Cladonia perforata.....  Florida perforate       E              
                                      cladonia (Deer moss).                 
                                                                            
          Hillsborough County                                               
                                                                            
    Mammals:                                                                
        Trichechus manatus           Manatee, West Indian..  E/CH           
         latirostris.                                                       
    Birds:                                                                  
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Eagle, Bald...........  E              
        Charadrius melodus.........  Plover, Piping........  E              
        Aphelocoma coerulescens....  Scrub-jay, Florida....  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Stork, Wood...........  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Woodpecker, Red-        E              
                                      cockaded.                             
    Reptiles:                                                               
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Snake, Eastern Indigo.  T              
        Chelonia mydas.............  Turtle, Green Sea.....  E              
        Dermochelys coriacea.......  Turtle, Leatherback...  E              
        Caretta caretta............  Turtle, Loggerhead Sea  T              
    Fish:                                                                   
        Acipenser oxyrhynchus        Sturgeon, Gulf........  T              
         desotoi.                                                           
    Plants:                                                                 
        Chrysopsis floridana =       Aster, Florida Golden.  E              
         Heterotheca.                                                       
                                                                            
             Holmes County                                                  
    Fish:                                                                   
        Acipenser oxyrinchus         Gulf sturgeon.........  T              
         desotoi.                                                           
    Amphibians and Reptiles:                                                
        Alligator mississippiensis.  American alligator....  T(S/A)         
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Eastern indigo snake..  T              
    Birds:                                                                  
        Falco peregrinus tundrius..  Arctic peregrine        E(S/A)         
                                      falcon.                               
        Mycteria americana.........  Wood stork............  E              
    
    [[Page 15647]]
    
                                                                            
        Picoides borealis..........  Red-cockaded            E              
                                      woodpecker.                           
    Mammals:                                                                
        Myotis grisescens..........  Gray bat..............  E              
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
                                                                            
          Indian River County                                               
                                                                            
    Amphibians and Reptiles:                                                
        Alligator mississippiensis.  American alligator....  T(S/A)         
        Caretta caretta............  Loggerhead sea turtle.  T              
        Chelonia mydas.............  Green sea turtle......  E              
        Dermochelys coriacea.......  Leatherback sea turtle  E              
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Eastern indigo snake..  T              
        Eretmochelys imbricata.....  Hawksbill sea turtle..  E              
        Lepidochelys kempii........  Kemp's (=Atlantic)      E              
                                      ridley sea turtle.                    
        Nerodia fasciata taeniata..  Atlantic salt marsh     T              
                                      snake.                                
    Birds:                                                                  
        Aphelocoma coerulescens      Florida scrub jay.....  T              
         coerulescens.                                                      
        Campephilus principalis      Ivory-billed            E              
         principalis.                 woodpecker.                           
        Charadrius melodus.........  Piping plover.........  T              
        Dendroica kirtlandii.......  Kirtland's warbler....  E              
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Bald eagle............  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Wood stork............  E              
        Polyborus (=Caracara)        Audubon's crested       T              
         plancus audubonii.           caracara.                             
        Rostrhamus sociabilis        Everglade snail kite..  E/CH           
         plumbeus.                                                          
        Sterna dougalli dougalli...  Roseate tern..........  T              
        Vermivora bachmanii........  Bachman's warbler.....  E              
    Mammals:                                                                
        Peromyscus polionotus        Southeastern beach      T              
         niveiventris.                mouse.                                
        Trichechus manatus           West Indian manatee...  E/CH           
         latirostris.                                                       
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
    Plants:                                                                 
        Family Cactaceae                                                    
            Cereus eriophorus var.   Fragrant wool-bearing   E              
             fragrans.                cereus.                               
        Family Lamiaceae                                                    
            Dicerandra immaculata..  Lakela's mint.........  E              
                                                                            
             Jackson County                                                 
    Fish:                                                                   
        Acipenser oxyrinchus         Gulf sturgeon.........  T              
         desotoi.                                                           
    Amphibians and Reptiles:                                                
        Alligator mississippiensis.  American alligator....  T(S/A)         
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Eastern indigo snake..  T              
    Birds                                                                   
        Falco peregrinus tundrius..  Arctic peregrine        E(S/A)         
                                      falcon.                               
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Bald eagle............  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Wood stork............  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Red-cockaded            E              
                                      woodpecker.                           
    Mammals:                                                                
        Myotis grisescens..........  Gray bat..............  E              
        Myotis sodalis.............  Indiana bat...........  E              
    Plants:                                                                 
        Silene polypetala..........  Fringed campion.......  E              
        Spigelia gentianoides......  Gentian pinkroot......  E              
        Torreya taxifolia..........  Florida torreya.......  E              
                                                                            
            Jefferson County                                                
    Fish:                                                                   
        Acipenser oxyrinchus         Gulf sturgeon.........  T              
         desotoi.                                                           
    Amphibians and Reptiles:                                                
        Alligator mississippiensis.  American alligator....  T(S/A)         
        Caretta caretta caretta....  Loggerhead turtle.....  T              
        Chelonia mydas mydas.......  Green turtle..........  E              
        Dermochelys coriacea.......  Leatherback turtle....  E              
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Eastern indigo snake..  T              
        Eretmochelys imbricata.....  Hawksbill turtle......  E              
        Lepidochelys kempi.........  Atlantic ridley.......  E              
    Birds:                                                                  
        Charadrius melodus.........  Piping plover.........  T              
        Falco peregrinus tundrius..  Arctic peregrine        E(S/A)         
                                      falcon.                               
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Bald eagle............  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Wood stork............  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Red-cockaded            E              
                                      woodpecker.                           
    Mammals:                                                                
        Trichechus manatus           West Indian manatee...  E              
         latirostris.                                                       
    
    [[Page 15648]]
    
                                                                            
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
    Plants:                                                                 
        Ribes echinellum...........  Miccosukee gooseberry.  T              
                                                                            
           Layfayette County                                                
    Birds:                                                                  
        Mycteria americana.........  Stork, Wood...........  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Woodpecker, Red-        E              
                                      cockaded.                             
    Reptiles:                                                               
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Snake, Eastern Indigo.  T              
    Fish:                                                                   
        Acipenser oxyrhynchus        Sturgeon, Gulf........  T              
         desotoi.                                                           
                                                                            
              Lake County                                                   
    Mammals:                                                                
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Bear, Florida Black...  C              
        Trichechus manatus           Manatee, West Indian..  E/CH           
         latirostris.                                                       
    Birds:                                                                  
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Eagle, Bald...........  T              
        Rostrhamus sociabilis        Kite, Everglade Snail.  E              
         plumbeus.                                                          
        Aphelocoma coerulescens....  Scrub-jay, Florida....  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Stork, Wood...........  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Woodpecker, Red-        E              
                                      cockaded.                             
    Reptiles:                                                               
        Neoseps reynoldsi..........  Skink, Sand...........  T              
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Snake, Eastern Indigo.  T              
    Plants:                                                                 
        Nolina brittoniana.........  Beargrass, Britton's..  E              
        Bonamia grandiflora........  Bonamia, Florida......  T              
        Chionanthus pygmaeus.......  Fringetree, Pygmy.....  E              
        Prunus geniculata..........  Plum, Scrub...........  E              
        Polygala lewtonii..........  Polygala, Lewton's....  E              
        Warea amplexifolia.........  Warea, Wide-leaf......  E              
        Paronychia chartacea =       Whitlow-wort, Papery..  T              
         Nyachia pulvinata.                                                 
        Eriogonum longifolium var.   Wild Buckwheat, Scrub.  T              
         g. = Eriogonum floridanum.                                         
        Clitoria fragrans..........  Wings, Pigeon.........  T              
                                                                            
               Lee County                                                   
                                                                            
    Amphibians and Reptiles:                                                
        Alligator mississippiensis.  American alligator....  T(S/A)         
        Caretta caretta............  Loggerhead sea turtle.  T              
        Chelonia mydas.............  Green sea turtle......  E              
        Crocodylus acutus..........  American crocodile....  E              
        Dermochelys coriacea.......  Leatherback sea turtle  E              
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Eastern indigo snake..  T              
        Eretmochelys imbricata.....  Hawksbill sea turtle..  E              
        Lepidochelys kempii........  Kemp's (=Atlantic)      E              
                                      ridley sea turtle.                    
    Birds:                                                                  
        Aphelocoma coerulescens      Florida scrub jay.....  T              
         coerulescens.                                                      
        Campephilus principalis      Ivory-billed            E              
         principalis.                 woodpecker.                           
        Charadrius melodus.........  Piping plover.........  T              
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Bald eagle............  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Wood stork............  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Red-cockaded            E              
                                      woodpecker.                           
        Polyborus (=Caracara)        Audubon's crested       E              
         plancus audubonii.           caracara.                             
        Rostrhamus sociabilis        Everglade snail kite..  E              
         plumbeus.                                                          
        Vermivora bachmanii........  Bachman's warbler.....  E              
    Mammals:                                                                
        Felis concolor.............  Mountain lion.........  T(S/A)         
        Felis concolor coryi.......  Florida panther.......  E              
        Trichechus manatus           West Indian manatee...  E/CH           
         latirostris.                                                       
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
    Plants:                                                                 
        Family Anonaceae                                                    
        Deeringothamnus pulchellus.  Beautiful pawpaw......  E              
              Leon County                                                   
    Fish:                                                                   
        Acipenser oxyrinchus         Gulf sturgeon.........  T              
         desotoi.                                                           
    Amphibians and Reptiles:                                                
        Alligator mississippiensis.  American alligator....  T(S/A)         
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Eastern indigo snake..  T              
    Birds:                                                                  
        Falco peregrinus tundrius..  Arctic peregrine        E(S/A)         
                                      falcon.                               
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Bald eagle............  T              
    
    [[Page 15649]]
    
                                                                            
        Mycteria americana.........  Wood stork............  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Red-cockaded            E              
                                      woodpecker.                           
    Mammals:                                                                
        Myotis grisescens..........  Gray bat..............  E              
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
    Plants:                                                                 
        Schwalbea americana........  American chaffseed....  E              
                                                                            
              Levy County                                                   
    Mammals:                                                                
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Bear, Florida Black...  C              
        Trichechus manatus           Manatee, West Indian..  ECH            
         latirostris.                                                       
        Microtus pennsylvanicus      Vole, Florida Salt      E              
         dukecampbelli.               Marsh.                                
    Birds:                                                                  
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Eagle, Bald...........  T              
        Aphelocoma coerulescens....  Scrub-jay, Florida....  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Stork, Wood...........  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Woodpecker, Red-        E              
                                      cockaded.                             
    Reptiles:                                                               
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Snake, Eastern Indigo.  T              
        Chelonia mydas.............  Turtle, Green Sea.....  E              
        Dermochelys coriacea.......  Turtle, Leatherback     E              
                                      Sea.                                  
        Caretta caretta............  Turtle, Loggerhead Sea  T              
    Fish:                                                                   
        Acipenser oxyrhynchus        Sturgeon, Gulf........  T              
         desotoi.                                                           
                                                                            
             Liberty County                                                 
    Fish:                                                                   
        Acipenser oxyrinchus         Gulf sturgeon.........  T              
         desotoi.                                                           
    Amphibians and Reptiles:                                                
        Alligator mississippiensis.  American alligator....  T(S/A)         
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Eastern indigo snake..  T              
    Birds:                                                                  
        Falco peregrinus tundrius..  Arctic peregrine        E(S/A)         
                                      falcon.                               
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Bald eagle............  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Wood stork............  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Red-cockaded            E              
                                      woodpecker.                           
    Mammals:                                                                
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
    Plants:                                                                 
        Conradina glabra...........  Apalachicola rosemary.  E              
        Harperocallis flava........  Harper's beauty.......  E              
        Macbridea alba.............  White birds-in-a-nest.  T              
        Pinguicula ionantha........  Godfrey's (violet)      T              
                                      butterwort.                           
        Rhododendron chapmanii.....  Chapman's rhododendron  E              
        Scutellaria floridana......  Florida skullcap......  T              
        Spigelia gentianoides......  Gentian pinkroot......  E              
        Torreya taxifolia..........  Florida torreya.......  E              
                                                                            
             Madison County                                                 
    Mammals:                                                                
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Bear, Florida Black...  C              
    Birds:                                                                  
        Mycteria americana.........  Stork, Wood...........  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Woodpecker, Red-        E              
                                      cockaded.                             
    Reptiles:                                                               
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Snake, Eastern Indigo.  T              
    Fish:                                                                   
        Acipenser oxyrhynchus        Sturgeon, Gulf........  T              
         desotoi.                                                           
                                                                            
             Manatee County                                                 
    Mammals:                                                                
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Bear, Florida Black...  C              
        Trichechus manatus           Manatee, West Indian..  E/CH           
         lotirostris.                                                       
    Birds:                                                                  
        Polyborus plancu audubonii.  Caracara, Audubon's     T              
                                      Crested.                              
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Eagle, Bald...........  T              
        Charadrius melodus.........  Plover, Piping........  T              
        Aphelocoma coerulescens....  Scub-jay, Florida.....  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Stork, Wood...........  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Woodpecker, Red-        E              
                                      cockaded.                             
    Reptiles:                                                               
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Snake, Eastern Indigo.  T              
        Chelonia mydas.............  Turtle, Green Sea.....  E              
        Dermochelys coriacea.......  Turtle, Leatherback     E              
                                      Sea.                                  
    
    [[Page 15650]]
    
                                                                            
        Caretta carretta...........  Turtle, Loggerhead Sea  T              
    Fish:                                                                   
        Acipenser oxyrhynchus        Sturgeon, Gulf........  T              
         desotoi.                                                           
                                                                            
             Marion County                                                  
    Mammals:                                                                
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Bear, Florida Black...  C              
        Trichechus manatus           Manatee, West Indian..  E/CH           
         latirostris.                                                       
    Birds:                                                                  
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Eagle, Bald...........  T              
        Rostrhamus sociabilis        Kite, Everglade Snail.  E              
         plumbeus.                                                          
        Aphelocoma coerulescens....  Scrub-jay, Florida....  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Stork, Wood...........  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Woodpecker, Red-        E              
                                      cockaded.                             
    Reptiles:                                                               
        Neoseps reynoldsi..........  Skink, Sand...........  T              
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Snake, Eastern Indigo.  T              
    Plants:                                                                 
        Bonamia grandiflora........  Bonamia, Florida......  T              
        Dicerandra cornutissima....  Mint, Longspurred.....  E              
        Polygala lewtonii..........  Polygala, Lewton's....  E              
        Eriogonum longifolium var.   Wild Buckwheat, Scrub.  T              
         g. = Eriogonum floridanum.                                         
                                                                            
             Martin County                                                  
                                                                            
    Amphibians and Reptiles:                                                
        Alligator mississippiensis.  American alligator....  T(S/A)         
        Caretta caretta............  Loggerhead sea turtle.  T              
        Chelonia mydas.............  Green sea turtle......  E              
        Dermochelys coriacea.......  Leatherback sea turtle  E              
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Eastern indigo snake..  T              
        Eretmochelys imbricata.....  Hawksbill sea turtle..  E              
        Lepidochelys kempii........  Kemp's (=Atlantic)      E              
                                      ridley sea turtle.                    
    Birds:                                                                  
        Aphelocoma coerulescens      Florida scrub jay.....  T              
         coerulescens.                                                      
        Campephilus principalis      Ivory-billed            E              
         principalis.                 woodpecker.                           
        Charadrius melodus.........  Piping plover.........  T              
        Dendroica kirtlandii.......  Kirtland's warbler....  E              
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Bald eagle............  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Wood stork............  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Red-cockaded            E              
                                      woodpecker.                           
        Polyborus (=Caracara)        Audubon's crested       T              
         plancus audubonii.           caracara.                             
        Rostrhamus sociabilis        Everglade snail kite..  E              
         plumbeus.                                                          
        Sterna dougalli dougalli...  Roseate tern..........  T              
        Vermivora bachmanii........  Bachman's warbler.....  E              
    Mammals:                                                                
        Trichechus manatus           West Indian manatee...  E/CH           
         latirostris.                                                       
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
    Plants:                                                                 
        Family Anonaceae                                                    
            Asimina tetramera......  Four-petal pawpaw.....  E              
        Family Cladoniaceae                                                 
            Cladonia perforata.....  Florida perforate       E              
                                      cladonia.                             
        Family Convolvulaceae                                               
            Jacquemontia reclinata.  Beach jacquemontia....  E              
                                                                            
             Monroe County                                                  
                                                                            
    Amphibians and Reptiles:                                                
        Alligator mississippiensis.  American alligator....  T(S/A)         
        Caretta caretta............  Loggerhead sea turtle.  T              
        Chelonia mydas.............  Green sea turtle......  E              
        Crocodylus acutus..........  American crocodile....  E/CH           
        Dermochelys coriacea.......  Leatherback sea turtle  E              
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Eastern indigo snake..  T              
        Eretmochelys imbricata.....  Hawksbill sea turtle..  E              
        Lepidochelys kempii........  Kemp's (=Atlantic)      E              
                                      ridley sea turtle.                    
        Nerodia fasciata taeniata..  Atlantic salt marsh     T              
                                      snake.                                
    Birds:                                                                  
        Ammodramus maritima........  Cape Sable seaside      E/CH           
                                      sparrow.                              
        Campephilus principalis      Ivory-billed            E              
         principalis.                 woodpecker.                           
        Charadrius melodus.........  Piping plover.........  T              
        Dendroica kirtlandii.......  Kirtland's warbler....  E              
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Bald eagle............  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Wood stork............  E              
        Polyborus (=Caracara)        Audubon's crested       T              
         plancus audubonii.           caracara.                             
    
    [[Page 15651]]
    
                                                                            
        Rostrhamus sociabilis        Everglade snail kite..  E              
         plumbeus.                                                          
        Sterna dougallii...........  Roseate tern..........  T              
        Vermivora bachmanii........  Bachman's warbler.....  E              
    Mammals:                                                                
        Felis concolor.............  Mountain lion.........  T(S/A)         
        Felis concolor coryi.......  Florida panther.......  E              
        Neotoma floridana smalli...  Key Largo woodrat.....  E              
        Odocoileus virginianus       Key deer..............  E              
         clavium.                                                           
        Oryzomys argentatus........  Silver rice rat.......  E/CH           
        Peromyscus gossypinus        Key Largo cotton mouse  E              
         allapaticola.                                                      
        Sylvilagus palustris         Lower keys marsh        E              
         hefneri.                     rabbit.                               
        Trichechus manatus           West Indian manatee...  E/CH           
         latirostris.                                                       
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
    Invertebrates:                                                          
        Orthalicus reses...........  Stock Island tree       T              
                                      snail.                                
        Heraclides (=Papilio)        Schaus swallowtail      E              
         aristodemus ponceanus.       butterfly.                            
    Plants:                                                                 
        Family Cactaceae                                                    
        Pilosocereus robinii.......  Key tree-cactus.......  E              
        Family Euphorbiaceae                                                
        Euphorbia garberi..........  Garber's spurge.......  T              
                                                                            
             Nassau County                                                  
    Mammals:                                                                
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
        Trichechus manatus           Manatee, West Indian..  E/CH           
         latirostris.                                                       
    Birds:                                                                  
        Mycteria americana.........  Stork, Wood...........  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Woodpecker, Red-        E              
                                      cockaded.                             
    Reptiles:                                                               
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Snake, Eastern Indigo.  T              
        Chelonia mydas.............  Turtle, Green Sea.....  E              
        Eretmochelys imbricata.....  Turtle, Hawksbill Sea.  E              
        Dermochelys coriacea.......  Turtle, Leatherback     E              
                                      Sea.                                  
        Caretta caretta............  Turtle, Loggerhead Sea  T              
                                                                            
            Okaloosa County                                                 
    Fish:                                                                   
        Acipenser oxyrinchus         Gulf sturgeon.........  T              
         desotoi.                                                           
        Etheostoma okaloosae.......  Okaloosa darter.......  E              
    Amphibians and Reptiles:                                                
        Alligator mississippiensis.  American alligator....  T(S/A)         
        Caretta caretta caretta....  Loggerhead turtle.....  T              
        Chelonia mydas mydas.......  Green turtle..........  E              
        Dermochelys coriacea.......  Leatherback turtle....  E              
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Eastern indigo snake..  T              
        Eretmochelys imbricata.....  Hawksbill turtle......  E              
        Lepidochelys kempi.........  Atlantic ridley.......  E              
    Birds:                                                                  
        Charadrius melodus.........  Piping plover.........  T              
        Falco peregrinus tundrius..  Arctic peregrine        E(S/A)         
                                      falcon.                               
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Bald eagle............  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Wood stork............  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Red-cockaded            E              
                                      woodpecker.                           
    Mammals:                                                                
        Trichechus manatus           West Indian manatee...  E              
         latirostris.                                                       
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
    Plants:                                                                 
        Cladonia perforata.........  Perforate reindeer      E              
                                      lichen.                               
                                                                            
           Okeechobee County                                                
                                                                            
    Amphibians and Reptiles:                                                
        Alligator mississippiensis.  American alligator....  T(S/A)         
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Eastern indigo snake..  T              
    Birds:                                                                  
        Ammodramus savannarum        Florida grasshopper     E              
         floridanus.                  sparrow.                              
        Aphelocoma coerulescens      Florida scrub jay.....  T              
         coerulescens.                                                      
        Campephilus principalis      Ivory-billed            E              
         principalis.                 woodpecker.                           
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Bald eagle............  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Wood stork............  E              
        Polyborus (=Caracara)        Audubon's crested       T              
         plancus audubonii.           caracara.                             
        Vermivora bachmanii........  Bachman's warbler.....  E              
    Mammals:                                                                
        Trichechus manatus           West Indian manatee...  E              
         latirostris.                                                       
    
    [[Page 15652]]
    
                                                                            
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
    Plants:                                                                 
        Family Convolvulaceae                                               
            Bonamia grandiflora....  Florida bonamia.......  T              
        Family Cucurbitaceae                                                
            Cucurbita                Okeechobee gourd......  E              
             okeechobeensis.                                                
        Family Polygonaceae                                                 
            Eriogonum longifolium    Scrub buckwheat.......  T              
             var. gnaphalifolium                                            
                                                                            
             Orange County                                                  
                                                                            
    Mammals:                                                                
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
    Birds:                                                                  
        Polyborus plancus audubonii  Caracara, Audubon's     T              
                                      Crested.                              
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Eagle, Bald...........  T              
        Rostrhamus sociabilis        Kite, Everglade Snail.  E              
         plumbeus.                                                          
        Aphelocoma coerulescens....  Scrub-jay, Florida....  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Stork, Wood...........  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Woodpecker, Red-        E              
                                      cockaded.                             
    Reptiles:                                                               
        Neoseps reynoldsi..........  Skink, Sand...........  T              
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Snake, Eastern Indigo.  T              
    Plants:                                                                 
        Nolina brittoniana.........  Bear-grass, Britton's.  E              
        Bonamia grandiflora........  Bonamia, Florida......  T              
        Lupinus aridorum...........  Lupine, Scrub.........  E              
        Deeringothamnus pulchellus.  Pawpaw, Beautiful.....  E              
        Polygonella myriophylla....  Sandlace..............  E              
        Paronychia chartacea =       Whitlow-wort, Papery..  T              
         Nyachia pulvinata.                                                 
        Eriogonum longifolium var.   Wild Buckwheat, Scrub.  T              
         g. = Eriogonum floridanum.                                         
                                                                            
             Osceola County                                                 
                                                                            
    Amphibians and Reptiles:                                                
        Alligator mississippiensis.  American alligator....  T(S/A)         
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Eastern indigo snake..  T              
    Birds:                                                                  
        Ammodramus savannarum        Florida grasshopper     E              
         floridanus.                  sparrow.                              
        Aphelocoma coerulescens      Florida scrub jay.....  T              
         coerulescens.                                                      
        Campephilus principalis      Ivory-billed            E              
         principalis.                 woodpecker.                           
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Bald eagle............  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Wood stork............  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Red-cockaded            E              
                                      woodpecker.                           
        Polyborus (=Caracara)        Audubon's crested       T              
         plancus audubonii.           caracara.                             
        Vermivora bachmanii........  Bachman's warbler.....  E              
    Mammals:                                                                
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
    Plants:                                                                 
        Family Agavaceae                                                    
            Nolina brittoniana.....  Scrub beargrass.......  E              
        Family Convolvulaceae                                               
            Bonamia grandiflora....  Florida bonamia.......  T              
        Family Fabaceae                                                     
            Clitoria fragrans......  Pigeon wing...........  T              
        Family Oleaceae                                                     
            Chionanthus pygmaeus...  Pygmy fringetree......  E              
        Family Polygalaceae                                                 
            Polygala lewtonii......  Lewton's polygala.....  E              
        Family Polygonaceae                                                 
            Eriogonum longifolium    Scrub buckwheat.......  T              
             var. gnaphalifolium.                                           
            Polygonella myriophylla  Sandlace..............  E              
                                                                            
           Palm Beach County                                                
                                                                            
    Amphibians and Reptiles:                                                
        Alligator mississippiensis.  American alligator....  T(S/A)         
        Caretta caretta............  Loggerhead sea turtle.  T              
        Chelonia mydas.............  Green sea turtle......  E              
        Dermochelys coriacea.......  Leatherback sea turtle  E              
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Eastern indigo snake..  T              
        Eretmochelys imbricata.....  Hawksbill sea turtle..  E              
        Lepidochelys kempii........  Kemp's (=Atlantic)      E              
                                      ridley sea turtle.                    
        Nerodia fasciata taeniata..  Atlantic salt marsh     T              
                                      snake.                                
    Birds:                                                                  
        Aphelocoma coerulescens      Florida scrub jay.....  T              
         coerulescens.                                                      
        Campephilus principalis      Ivory-billed            E              
         principalis.                 woodpecker.                           
    
    [[Page 15653]]
    
                                                                            
        Charadrius melodus.........  Piping plover.........  T              
        Dendroica kirtlandii.......  Kirtland's warbler....  E              
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Bald eagle............  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Wood stork............  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Red-cockaded            E              
                                      woodpecker.                           
        Polyborus (=Caracara)        Audubon's crested       T              
         plancus audubonii.           caracara.                             
        Rostrhamus sociabilis        Everglade snail kite..  E/CH           
         plumbeus.                                                          
        Sterna dougallii...........  Roseate tern..........  T              
        Vermivora bachmanii........  Bachman's warbler.....  E              
    Mammals:                                                                
        Felis concolor.............  Mountain lion.........  T(S/A)         
        Felis concolor coryi.......  Florida panther.......  E              
        Trichechus manatus           West Indian manatee...  E/CH           
         latirostris.                                                       
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
    Plants:                                                                 
        Family Anonaceae                                                    
            Asimina tetramera......  Four-petal pawpaw.....  E              
        Family Convolvulaceae                                               
            Jacquemontia reclinata.  Beach jacquemontia....  E              
        Family Cucurbitaceae                                                
            Cucurbita                Okeechobee gourd......  E              
             okeechobeensis.                                                
                                                                            
              Pasco County                                                  
    Mammals:                                                                
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
        Trichechus manatus           Manatee, West Indian..  E/CH           
         latirostris.                                                       
    Birds:                                                                  
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Eagle, Bald...........  T              
        Charadrius melodus.........  Plover, Piping........  T              
        Aphelocoma coerulescens....  Scrub-jay, Florida....  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Stork, Wood...........  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Woodpecker, Red-        E              
                                      cockaded.                             
    Reptiles:                                                               
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Snake, Eastern Indigo.  T              
        Chelonia mydas.............  Turtle, Green Sea.....  E              
        Eretmochelys imbricata.....  Turtle, Hawksbill Sea.  E              
        Lepidochelys kempii........  Turtle, Kemp's Ridley   E              
                                      Sea.                                  
        Dermochelys coriacea.......  Turtle, Leatherback     E              
                                      Sea.                                  
        Caretta caretta............  Turtle, Loggerhead Sea  T              
    Fish:                                                                   
        Acipenser oxyrhynchus        Sturgeon, Gulf........  T              
         desotoi.                                                           
                                                                            
            Pinellas County                                                 
    Mammals:                                                                
        Trichechus manatus           Manatee, West Indian..  E/CH           
         latirostris.                                                       
    Birds:                                                                  
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Eagle, Bald...........  T              
        Charadrius melodus.........  Plover, Piping........  T              
        Aphelocoma coerulescens....  Scrub-jay, Florida....  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Stork, Wood...........  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Woodpecker, Red-        E              
                                      cockaded.                             
    Reptiles:                                                               
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Snake, Eastern Indigo.  T              
        Chelonia mydas.............  Turtle, Green Sea.....  E              
        Lepidochelys kempii........  Turtle, Kemp's Ridley   E              
                                      Sea.                                  
        Dermochelys coriacea.......  Turtle, Leatherback     E              
                                      Sea.                                  
        Caretta caretta............  Turtle, Loggerhead Sea  T              
    Fish:                                                                   
        Acipenser oxyrhynchus        Sturgeon, Gulf........  T              
         desotoi.                                                           
    Plants:                                                                 
        Chrysopsis                   Aster, Florida Golden.  E              
         floridana=Heterotheca                                              
         floridana.                                                         
              Polk County                                                   
                                                                            
                                                                            
    Amphibians and Reptiles:                                                
        Alligator mississippiensis.  American alligator....  T(S/A)         
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Eastern indigo snake..  T              
        Eumeces egregius lividus...  Blue-tailed mole skink  T              
        Neoseps reynoldsi..........  Sand skink............  T              
    Birds:                                                                  
        Ammodramus savannarum        Florida grasshopper     E              
         floridanus.                  sparrow.                              
        Aphelocoma coerulescens      Florida scrub jay.....  T              
         coerulescens.                                                      
        Campephilus principalis      Ivory-billed            E              
         principalis.                 woodpecker.                           
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Bald eagle............  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Wood stork............  E              
    
    [[Page 15654]]
    
                                                                            
        Picoides borealis..........  Red-cockaded            E              
                                      woodpecker.                           
        Polyborus (=Caracara)        Audubon's crested       T              
         plancus audubonii.           caracara.                             
        Vermivora bachmanii........  Bachman's warbler.....  E              
    Mammals:                                                                
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
    Plants:                                                                 
        Family Agavaceae                                                    
            Nolina brittoniana.....  Britton's beargrass...  E              
        Family Asteraceae                                                   
            Liatris ohlingerae.....  Scrub blazing star....  E              
        Family Brassicaceae                                                 
            Warea amplexifolia.....  Clasping warea........  E              
            Warea carteri..........  Carter's mustard......  E              
        Family Caryophyllaceae                                              
        Paronychia chartacea.......  Papery whitlow-wort...  T              
        Family Convolvulaceae                                               
            Bonamia grandiflora....  Florida bonamia.......  T              
        Family Fabaceae                                                     
            Clitoria fragrans......  Pigeon wing...........  T              
            Crotalaria avonensis...  Avon Park harebells...  E              
            Lupinus aridorum.......  Scrub lupine..........  E              
        Family Hypericaceae                                                 
            Hypericum cumulicola...  Highlands scrub         E              
                                      hypericum.                            
        Family Lamiaceae                                                    
            Conradina brevifolia...  Short-leaved rosemary.  E              
        Family Oleaceae                                                     
        Chionanthus pygmaeus.......  Pygmy fringetree......  E              
        Family Polygalaceae                                                 
            Polygala lewtonii......  Lewton's polygala.....  E              
        Family Polygonaceae                                                 
            Eriogonum longifolium    Scrub buckwheat.......  T              
             var. gnaphalifolium.                                           
            Polygonella basiramia..  Wireweed..............  E              
            Polygonella myriophylla  Sandlace..............  E              
        Family Rhamnaceae                                                   
            Ziziphus celata........  Florida ziziphus......  E              
        Family Rosaceae                                                     
            Prunus geniculata......  Scrub plum............  E              
            Cladonia perforata.....  Florida perforate       E              
                                      cladonia (Deer moss).                 
                                                                            
             Putnam County                                                  
    Mammals:                                                                
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
        Trichechus manatus           Manatee, West Indian..  E/CH           
         latirostris.                                                       
    Birds:                                                                  
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Eagle, Bald...........  T              
        Aphelocoma coerulescens....  Scrub-jay, Florida....  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Stork, Wood...........  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Woodpecker, Red-        E              
                                      cockaded.                             
    Reptiles:                                                               
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Snake, Eastern Indigo.  T              
    Plants:                                                                 
        Conradina etonia...........  Rosemary, Etonia......  E              
    Fish:                                                                   
        Acipenser brevirostrum.....  Sturgeon, Shortnose...  E              
                                                                            
            Sarasota County                                                 
                                                                            
    Amphibians and Reptiles:                                                
        Alligator mississippiensis.  American alligator....  T(S/A)         
        Caretta caretta............  Loggerhead sea turtle.  T              
        Chelonia mydas.............  Green sea turtle......  E              
        Dermochelys coriacea.......  Leatherback sea turtle  E              
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Eastern indigo snake..  T              
        Eretmochelys imbricata.....  Hawksbill sea turtle..  E              
        Lepidochelys kempii........  Kemp's (=Atlantic)      E              
                                      ridley sea turtle.                    
    Birds:                                                                  
        Aphelocoma coerulescens      Florida scrub jay.....  T              
         coerulescens.                                                      
        Campephilus principalis      Ivory-billed            E              
         principalis.                 woodpecker.                           
        Charadrius melodus.........  Piping plover.........  T              
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Bald eagle............  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Wood stork............  E              
        Vermivora bachmanii........  Bachman's warbler.....  E              
    Mammals:                                                                
        Trichechus manatus           West Indian manatee...  E/CH           
         latirostris.                                                       
    
    [[Page 15655]]
    
                                                                            
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
                                                                            
           Santa Rosa County                                                
    Fish:                                                                   
        Acipenser oxyrinchus         Gulf sturgeon.........  T              
         desotoi.                                                           
    Amphibians and Reptiles:                                                
        Alligator mississippiensis.  American alligator....  T(S/A)         
        Caretta caretta caretta....  Loggerhead turtle.....  T              
        Chelonia mydas mydas.......  Green turtle..........  E              
        Dermochelys coriacea.......  Leatherback turtle....  E              
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Eastern indigo snake..  T              
        Eretmochelys imbricata.....  Hawksbill turtle......  E              
        Lepidochelys kempi.........  Atlantic ridley.......  E              
    Birds:                                                                  
        Charadrius melodus.........  Piping plover.........  T              
        Falco peregrinus tundrius..  Arctic peregrine        E(S/A)         
                                      falcon.                               
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Bald eagle............  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Wood stork............  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Red-cockaded            E              
                                      woodpecker.                           
    Mammals:                                                                
        Trichechus manatus           West Indian manatee...  E              
         latirostris.                                                       
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
                                                                            
            Seminole County                                                 
                                                                            
    Mammals:                                                                
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
        Trichechus manatus           Manatee, West Indian..  E/CH           
         latirostris.                                                       
    Birds:                                                                  
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Eagle, Bald...........  T              
        Aphelocoma coerulescens....  Scrub-jay, Florida....  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Stork, Wood...........  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Woodpecker, Red-        E              
                                      cockaded.                             
    Reptiles:                                                               
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Snake, Eastern Indigo.  T              
                                                                            
            St. Johns County                                                
                                                                            
    Mammals:                                                                
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
        Trichechus manatus           Manatee, West Indian..  E/CH           
         latirostris.                                                       
        Peromyscus polionotus        Mouse, Anastasia        E              
         phasma.                      Island Beach.                         
    Birds:                                                                  
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Eagle, Bald...........  T              
        Charadrius melodus.........  Plover, Piping........  T              
        Aphelocoma coerulescens....  Scrub-jay, Florida....  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Stork, Wood...........  E              
        Mycteria americana.........  Stork, Wood...........  E              
    Reptiles:                                                               
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Snake, Eastern Indigo.  T              
        Chelonia mydas.............  Turtle, Green Sea.....  E              
        Eretmochelys imbricata.....  Turtle, Hawksbill Sea.  E              
        Dermochelys coriacea.......  Turtle, Leatherback     E              
                                      Sea.                                  
        Caretta caretta............  Turtle, Loggerhead Sea  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Stork, Wood...........  E              
                                                                            
            St. Lucie County                                                
                                                                            
    Amphibians and Reptiles:                                                
        Alligator mississippiensis.  American alligator....  T(S/A)         
        Caretta caretta............  Loggerhead sea turtle.  T              
        Chelonia mydas.............  Green sea turtle......  E              
        Dermochelys coriacea.......  Leatherback sea turtle  E              
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Eastern indigo snake..  T              
        Eretmochelys imbricata.....  Hawksbill sea turtle..  E              
        Lepidochelys kempii........  Kemp's (=Atlantic)      E              
                                      ridley sea turtle.                    
    Birds:                                                                  
        Aphelocoma coerulescens      Florida scrub jay.....  T              
         coerulescens.                                                      
        Campephilus principalis      Ivory-billed            E              
         principalis.                 woodpecker.                           
        Charadrius melodus.........  Piping plover.........  T              
        Dendroica kirtlandii.......  Kirtland's warbler....  E              
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Bald eagle............  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Wood stork............  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Red-cockaded            E              
                                      woodpecker.                           
        Polyborus (=Caracara)        Audubon's crested       T              
         plancus audubonii.           caracara.                             
        Rostrhamus sociabilis        Everglade snail kite..  E/CH           
         plumbeus.                                                          
        Sterna dougalli dougalli...  Roseate tern..........  T              
    
    [[Page 15656]]
    
                                                                            
        Vermivora bachmanii........  Bachman's warbler.....  E              
    Mammals:                                                                
        Peromyscus polionotus        Southeastern beach      T              
         niveiventris.                mouse.                                
        Trichechus manatus           West Indian manatee...  E/CH           
         latirostris.                                                       
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
    Plants:                                                                 
        Family Anonaceae:                                                   
            Asimina tetramera......  Four-petal pawpaw.....  E              
        Family Cactaceae:                                                   
            Cereus eriophorus var.   Fragrant prickly-apple  E              
             fragrans.                                                      
        Family Lamiaceae:                                                   
            Dicerandra frutescens..  Scrub mint............  E              
            Dicerandra immaculata..  Lakela's mint.........  E              
             Sumter County                                                  
    Mammals:                                                                
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
    Birds:                                                                  
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Eagle, Bald...........  T              
        Rostrhamus sociabilis        Kite, Everglade Snail.  E              
         plumbeus.                                                          
        Aphelocoma coerulescens....  Scrub-jay, Florida....  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Stork, Wood...........  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Woodpecker, Red-        E              
                                      cockaded.                             
    Reptiles:                                                               
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Snake, Eastern Indigo.  T              
             Suwanee County                                                 
    Mammals:                                                                
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
    Birds:                                                                  
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Eagle, Bald...........  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Stork, Wood...........  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Woodpecker, Red-        E              
                                      cockaded.                             
    Reptiles:                                                               
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Snake, Eastern Indigo.  T              
    Fish:                                                                   
        Acipenser oxyrhynchus        Sturgeon, Gulf........  T              
         desotoi.                                                           
             Taylor County                                                  
    Mammals:                                                                
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
        Trichechus manatus           Manatee, West Indian E/                
         latirostris.                 CH.                                   
    Birds:                                                                  
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Eagle, Bald...........  T              
        Charadrius melodus.........  Plover, Piping........  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Stork, Wood...........  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Woodpecker, Red-        E              
                                      cockaded.                             
    Reptiles:                                                               
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Snake, Eastern Indigo.  T              
        Chelonia mydas.............  Turtle, Green Sea.....  E              
        Dermochelys coriacea.......  Turtle, Leatherback     E              
                                      Sea.                                  
        Caretta caretta............  Turtle, Loggerhead Sea  T              
    Fish:                                                                   
        Acipenser oxyrhynchus        Sturgeon, Gulf........  T              
         desotoi.                                                           
              Union County                                                  
                                                                            
    Mammals:                                                                
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
    Birds:                                                                  
        Mycteria americana.........  Stork, Wood...........  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Woodpecker, Red-        E              
                                      cockaded.                             
    Reptiles:                                                               
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Snake, Eastern Indigo.  T              
             Volusia County                                                 
                                                                            
    Mammals:                                                                
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
        Trichechus manatus           Manatee, West Indian..  E/CH           
         latirostris.                                                       
    Birds:                                                                  
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Eagle, Bald...........  T              
        Rostrhamus sociabilis        Kite, Everglade Snail.  E              
         plumbeus.                                                          
        Charadrius melodus.........  Plover, Piping........  T              
        Aphelocoma coerulescens....  Scrub-jay, Florida....  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Stork, Wood...........  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Woodpecker, Red-        E              
                                      cockaded.                             
    Reptiles:                                                               
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Snake, Eastern Indigo.  T              
    
    [[Page 15657]]
    
                                                                            
        Chelonia mydas.............  Turtle, Green Sea.....  E              
        Eretmochelys imbricata.....  Turtle, Hawksbill Sea.  E              
        Dermochelys coriacea.......  Turtle, Leatherback     E              
                                      Sea.                                  
        Caretta caretta............  Turtle, Loggerhead Sea  T              
    Plants:                                                                 
        Deeringothamus rugelii.....  Pawpaw, Rugel's.......  E              
             Wakulla County                                                 
    Fish:                                                                   
        Acipenser oxyrinchus         Gulf sturgeon.........  T              
         desotoi.                                                           
    Amphibians and Reptiles:                                                
        Alligator mississippiensis.  American alligator....  T(S/A)         
        Caretta caretta caretta....  Loggerhead turtle.....  T              
        Chelonia mydas mydas.......  Green turtle..........  E              
        Dermochelys coriacea.......  Leatherback turtle....  E              
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Eastern indigo snake..  T              
        Eretmochelys imbricata.....  Hawksbill turtle......  E              
        Lepidochelys kempi.........  Atlantic ridley.......  E              
    Birds:                                                                  
        Charadrius melodus.........  Piping plover.........  T              
        Falco peregrinus tundrius..  Arctic peregrine        E(S/A)         
                                      falcon.                               
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Bald eagle............  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Wood stork............  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Red-cockaded            E              
                                      woodpecker.                           
    Mammals:                                                                
        Trichechus manatus           West Indian manatee...  E              
         latirostris.                                                       
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
             Walton County                                                  
    Fish:                                                                   
        Acipenser oxyrinchus         Gulf sturgeon.........  T              
         desotoi.                                                           
        Etheostoma okaloosae.......  Okaloosa darter.......  E              
    Amphibians and Reptiles:                                                
        Alligator mississippiensis.  American alligator....  T(S/A)         
        Caretta caretta caretta....  Loggerhead turtle.....  T              
        Chelonia mydas mydas.......  Green turtle..........  E              
        Dermochelys coriacea.......  Leatherback turtle....  E              
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Eastern indigo snake..  T              
        Eretmochelys imbricata.....  Hawksbill turtle......  E              
        Lepidochelys kempi.........  Atlantic ridley.......  E              
    Birds:                                                                  
        Charadrius melodus.........  Piping plover.........  T              
        Falco peregrinus tundrius..  Arctic peregrine        E(S/A)         
                                      falcon.                               
        Mycteria americana.........  Wood stork............  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Red-cockaded            E              
                                      woodpecker.                           
    Mammals:                                                                
        Peromyscus polionotus        Choctawhatchee beach    E/CH           
         allophrys.                   mouse.                                
        Trichechus manatus           West Indian manatee...  E              
         latirostris.                                                       
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
    Plants:                                                                 
        Thalictrum cooleyi.........  Cooley's meadowrue....  E              
                                                                            
           Washington County                                                
                                                                            
    Amphibians and Reptiles:                                                
        Alligator mississippiensis.  American alligator....  T(S/A)         
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Eastern indigo snake..  T              
    Birds:                                                                  
        Falco peregrinus tundrius..  Arctic peregrine        E(S/A)         
                                      falcon.                               
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Bald eagle............  T              
        Mycteria americana.........  Wood stork............  E              
        Picoides borealis..........  Red-cockaded            E              
                                      woodpecker.                           
    Mammals:                                                                
        Myotis grisescens..........  Gray bat..............  E              
        Ursus americanus floridanus  Florida black bear....  C              
    Plants:                                                                 
        Paronychia chartacea.......  Papery whitlow-wort...  T              
        Spigelia gentianoides......  Gentian pinkroot......  E              
                                                                            
              MISSISSIPPI                                                   
                                                                            
     Statewide on potential habitat                                         
                                                                            
        Potamilus carpax...........  Fat pocketbook........  E              
    Birds:                                                                  
        Haliaeetus leucocephalus...  Bald eagle............  T              
    Fish:                                                                   
        Acipenser oxyrinchus         Gulf sturgeon.........  T              
         desotoi.                                                           
    
    [[Page 15658]]
    
                                                                            
        Scaphirhynchus albus.......  Pallid sturgeon.......  E              
    Plants:                                                                 
        Isoetes louisianensis......  Louisiana quillwort...  DE             
                                                                            
             Attala County                                                  
    Mammals:                                                                
        Ursus americanus luteolus..  Louisiana black bear..  T              
                                                                            
             Jackson County                                                 
    Birds:                                                                  
        Picoides borealis..........  Red-cockaded            E              
                                      woodpecker.                           
        Pelecanus occidentalis.....  Brown Pelican.........  E              
        Grus canadensis pulla......  Mississippi sandhill    E              
                                      crane.                                
        Charadrius melodus.........  Piping plover.........  T              
    Reptiles:                                                               
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Eastern indigo snake..  T              
        Gopherus polyphemus........  Gopher tortoise.......  T              
        Graptemys flavimaculata....  Yellow-blotched map     T              
                                      turtle.                               
        Caretta caretta............  Loggerhead turtle.....  T              
        Lepidochelys kempii........  Kemp's (=Atlantic)      E              
                                      ridley sea turtle.                    
    Mammals:                                                                
        Ursus americanus luteolus..  Louisiana black bear..  T              
                                                                            
              Jones County                                                  
    Reptiles:                                                               
        Gopherus polyphemus........  Gopher tortoise.......  T              
        Graptemys flavimaculata....  Yellow-blotched map     T              
                                      turtle.                               
        Drymarchon corais couperi..  Eastern indigo snake..  T              
    Birds:                                                                  
        Picoides borealis..........  Red-cockaded            E              
                                      woodpecker.                           
    Mammals:                                                                
        Ursus americanus luteolus..  Louisiana black bear..  T              
                                                                            
              Leake County                                                  
    Mammals:                                                                
        Ursus americanus luteolus..  Louisiana black bear..  T              
    Reptiles:                                                               
        Graptemys oculifera........  Ringed map turtle.....  T              
                                                                            
             Neshobo County                                                 
                                                                            
    Mammals:                                                                
        Ursus americanus luteolus..  Louisiana black bear..  T              
    Reptiles:                                                               
        Graptemys oculifera........  Ringed map turtle.....  T              
                                                                            
             Newton County                                                  
                                                                            
    Mammals:                                                                
        Ursus americanus luteolus..  Louisiana black bear..  T              
                                                                            
             Winston County                                                 
                                                                            
    Birds:                                                                  
        Picoides borealis..........  Red-cockaded            E              
                                      woodpecker.                           
                                                                            
             NORTH CAROLINA                                                 
                                                                            
             Graham County                                                  
    Mammals:                                                                
        Glaucomys sabrinus           Carolina nothern        E              
         coloratus.                   flying squirrel.                      
    Plants:                                                                 
        Spiraea virginiana.........  Virginia spiraea......  T              
        Gymnoderma lineare.........  Rock gnome lichen.....  E              
    Mollusk:                                                                
        Alasmidonta raveneliana....  Appalachian elktoe....  E              
                                                                            
             Jackson County                                                 
    Birds:                                                                  
        Falco peregrinus...........  Peregrine falcon......  E              
    Mammals:                                                                
        Glaucomys sabrinus           Carolina nothern        E              
         coloratus.                   flying squirrel.                      
        Myotis sodalis.............  Indiana bat...........  E              
    Plants:                                                                 
        Helonias bullata...........  Swamp pink............  T              
        Gymnoderma lineare.........  Rock gnome lichen.....  E              
        Isotria medeoloides........  Small-whorled pogonia.  T              
    Mollusk:                                                                
        Alasmidonta raveneliana....  Appalachian elktoe....  E              
                                                                            
              Swain County                                                  
    Mammals:                                                                
        Glaucomys sabrinus           Carolina nothern        E              
         coloratus.                   flying squirrel.                      
    
    [[Page 15659]]
    
                                                                            
        Myotis sodalis.............  Indiana bat...........  E              
        Felis concolor couguar.....  Eastern cougar........  E              
    Plants:                                                                 
        Gymnoderma lineare.........  Rock gnome lichen.....  E              
    Fish:                                                                   
        Cyprinella monacha.........  Spotfin chub..........  T              
    Mollusk:                                                                
        Mesodon clarki nantahala...  Noonday snail.........  T              
        Pegias fabula..............  Little-wing             E              
                                      pearlymussel.                         
        Alasmidonta raveneliana....  Appalachian elktoe....  E              
    Spiders:                                                                
        Microhexura montivaga......  Spruce-fir moss spider  E              
    ------------------------------------------------------------------------
    *E=Endangered--T=Threatened--C=Candidate--CH=Critical Habitat--(S/A)=due
      to similar appearance.                                                
    
    Final NPDES General Permit for Storm Water Discharges From 
    Construction Activities
    
    Table of Contents
    
    Part I. Coverage Under This Permit
        A. Permit Area
        B. Eligibility
        C. Authorization
    Part II. Notice of Intent Requirements
        A. Deadlines for Notification
        B. Contents of Notice of Intent
        C. Where to Submit
        D. Additional Notification
        E. Renotification
    Part III. Special Conditions
        A. Prohibition on non-storm water discharges
        B. Releases in excess of Reportable Quantities
    Part IV. Unpaved Rural Roads
        A. Applicability
        B. Construction
        C. Notice of Termination
    Part V. Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plans
        A. Deadlines for Plan Preparation and Compliance
        B. Signature and Plan Review
        C. Keeping Plans Current
        D. Contents of Plan
        E. Contractors
    Part VI. Retention of Records
    Part VII. Standard Permit Conditions
        A. Duty to Comply
        B. Continuation of the Expired General Permit
        C. Need to halt or reduce activity not a defense
        D. Duty to Mitigate
        E. Duty to Provide Information
        F. Other Information
        G. Signatory Requirements
        H. Penalties for Falsification of Reports
        I. Penalties for Falsification of Monitoring Systems
        J. Oil and Hazardous Substance Liability
        K. Property Rights
        L. Severability
        M. Transfers
        N. Requiring an individual permit or an alternative general 
    permit
        O. State/Environmental Laws
        P. Proper Operation and Maintenance
        Q. Inspection and Entry
        R. Permit Actions
        S. Planned Changes
        T. Twenty-four Hour Reporting
        U. Bypass
    Part VIII. Reopener Clause
    Part IX. Notice of Termination
        A. Contents of the Notice of Termination
        B. Where to Submit
        C. Additional Notification
    Part X. Definitions
    
    Preface
    
        The Clean Water Act (CWA) provides that storm water discharges 
    associated with industrial activity from a point source (including 
    discharges through a municipal separate storm sewer system) to waters 
    of the United States are unlawful, unless authorized by a National 
    Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit. The terms 
    ``storm water discharge associated with industrial activity'', ``point 
    source'' and ``waters of the United States'' are critical to 
    determining whether a facility is subject to this requirement. Complete 
    definitions of these terms are found in the definition section (Part X) 
    of this permit.
    
    Part I. Coverage Under This Permit
    
    A. Permit Area
        The permit, except the parts listed below, covers all areas 
    administered by EPA, Region 4:
    
    All Indian Country Lands within the State of Alabama, except Part IV 
    and Part V.D.2.a.(1), NPDES Permit No. ALR10*##I
    State of Florida, excluding Indian lands, NPDES Permit No. FLR10*###
    All Indian Country Lands within the State of Florida, except Part IV 
    and Part V.D.2.a.(1), NPDES Permit No. FLR10*##I
    All Indian Country Lands within the State of Mississippi, except Part 
    IV and Part V.D.2.a.(1), NPDES Permit No. MSR10*##I
    All Indian Country Lands within the State of North Carolina, except 
    Part IV and Part V.D.2.a.(1), NPDES Permit No. NCR10*##I
    B. Eligibility
        1. This permit may authorize all discharges identified in the 
    pollution prevention plan of storm water associated with industrial 
    activity from construction sites, (those sites or common plans of 
    development or sale, including unpaved roads, that will result in the 
    disturbance of five or more acres total land area or less than five 
    acres if the Director designates the site),\23\ (henceforth referred to 
    as storm water discharges from construction activities) occurring after 
    the effective date of this permit (including discharges occurring after 
    the effective date of this permit where the construction activity was 
    initiated before the effective date of this permit), except for 
    discharges identified under paragraph I.B.3.
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        \\23\\ On June 4, 1992, the United State Court of Appeals for 
    the Ninth Circuit remanded the exemption for construction sites of 
    less than five acres to the EPA for further rulemaking. (Nos. 90-
    70671 and 91-70200). Section 402(p)(2)(E) of the Clean Water Act 
    shall be used as a bases for any designations.
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        2. This permit may authorize storm water discharges from 
    construction sites that are mixed with storm water discharges 
    associated with industrial activity from industrial sources other than 
    construction, where:
        a. the industrial source other than construction is located on the 
    same site as the construction activity;
        b. storm water discharges associated with industrial activity from 
    the areas of the site where construction activities are occurring are 
    in compliance with the terms of this permit; and
        c. storm water discharges associated with industrial activity from 
    the areas of the site where industrial activity other than construction 
    are occurring (including storm water discharges from dedicated asphalt 
    plants and dedicated concrete plants at the construction site)
    
    [[Page 15660]]
    
    are in compliance with the terms, including applicable NOI or 
    application requirements, of a different NPDES general permit or 
    individual permit authorizing such discharges.
        3. Limitations on Coverage. The following storm water discharges 
    from construction sites are not authorized by this permit:
        a. storm water discharges associated with industrial activity that 
    originate from the site after construction activities have been 
    completed and the site has undergone final stabilization;
        b. discharges that are mixed with sources of non-storm water, other 
    than discharges identified in Part III.A of this permit which are in 
    compliance with Part V.D.5 (non-storm water discharges) of this permit;
        c. storm water discharges associated with construction activity 
    that are subject to an existing NPDES individual or general permit or 
    which are issued a permit in accordance with paragraph VII.N (requiring 
    an individual permit or an alternative general permit) of this permit. 
    Such discharges may be authorized under this permit after an existing 
    permit expires, provided the existing permit did not establish numeric 
    limitations for such discharges;
        d. storm water discharges from construction sites that the Director 
    (EPA) has determined to be or may reasonably be expected to be causing 
    or contributing to a violation of a water quality standard;
        e. storm water discharges from construction sites if the discharges 
    may adversely affect a listed or proposed to be listed endangered or 
    threatened species or its critical habitat;
        (1) a discharge of storm water associated with construction 
    activity may be covered under this permit only if the applicant 
    certifies that they meet at least one of the following criteria. 
    Failure to continue to meet one of these criteria during the term of 
    the permit will result in the storm water discharges associated with 
    construction ineligible for coverage under this permit.
        (a) the storm water discharge(s), and the construction and 
    implementation of Best Management Practices (BMPs) to control storm 
    water runoff, are not likely to adversely affect species identified in 
    Appendix C of this permit or critical habitat for a listed species; or
        (b) the applicant's activity has received previous authorization 
    under Section 7 or section 10 of the Endangered Species Act and that 
    authorization addressed storm water discharges and/or BMPS to control 
    storm water runoff (e.g., developer included impact of entire project 
    in consultation over a wetlands dredge and fill permit under Section 7 
    of the Endangered Species Act); or
        (c) the applicant's activity was considered as part of a larger, 
    more comprehensive assessment of impacts on endangered species under 
    Section 7 or Section 10 of the Endangered Species Act that which 
    accounts for storm water discharges and BMPs to control storm water 
    runoff (e.g., where an area-wide habitat conservation plan and Section 
    10 permit is issued which addresses impacts from construction 
    activities including those from storm water, or a National 
    Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) review is conducted which incorporates 
    ESA Section 7 procedures); or
        (d) consultation under Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act is 
    conducted for the applicant's activity which results in either a no 
    jeopardy opinion or a written concurrence on a finding of not likely to 
    adversely affect; or
        (e) the applicant's activity was considered as part of a larger, 
    more comprehensive site-specific assessment of impacts on endangered 
    species by the owner or other operator of the site and that permittee 
    certified eligibility under item (a), (b), (c), or (d) above (e.g. 
    owner was able to certify no adverse impacts for the project as a whole 
    under item (a), so the contractor can then certify under item (e)).
        (2) All applicants must follow the procedures provided at Appendix 
    C of this permit when applying for permit coverage.
        (3) The applicant must comply with any terms and conditions imposed 
    under the eligibility requirements of paragraphs (1)(a), (b), (c), (d), 
    or (e) above to ensure that storm water discharges or BMPs to control 
    storm water runoff are protective of listed endangered and threatened 
    species and/or critical habitat. Such terms and conditions must be 
    incorporated in the applicant's storm water pollution prevention plan.
        (4) For the purposes of conducting consultation to meet the 
    eligibility requirements of paragraph (1)(d) above, applicants are 
    designated as non-Federal representatives. See 50 CFR 402.08. However, 
    applicants who choose to conduct consultation as a non-Federal 
    representative must notify EPA and the appropriate Office of the Fish 
    and Wildlife Service office in writing of that decision.
        (5) This permit does not authorize any ``taking'' (as defined under 
    Section 9 of the Endangered Species Act) of endangered or threatened 
    species.
        (6) This permit does not authorize any storm water discharges, nor 
    require any BMPs to control storm water runoff, that are likely to 
    jeopardize the continued existence of any species that are listed as 
    endangered or threatened under the Endangered Species Act or result in 
    the adverse modification or destruction of habitat that is designated 
    as critical under the Endangered Species Act.
        f. discharges of storm water associated with industrial activity 
    from construction sites not specifically identified in the pollution 
    prevention plan in accordance with Part V of this permit. Such 
    discharges not identified in the plan are subject to the upset and 
    bypass rules in Part VII of this permit.
        g. storm water discharges that would affect a property that is 
    listed or is eligible for listing in the National Historic Register 
    maintained by the Secretary of Interior may be in violation of the 
    National Historic Preservation Act. A discharge of storm water 
    associated with construction activity may be covered under this permit 
    only if the applicant certifies that either:
        (1) the storm water discharge(s), and the construction and 
    implementation of BMPs to control storm water runoff, do not affect a 
    property that is listed or is eligible for listing in the National 
    Historic Register maintained by the Secretary of Interior; or,
        (2) the applicant consults with the State Historic Preservation 
    Officer (SHPO) or the Tribal Historic Preservation Officer (THPO) on 
    the potential for adverse effects which results in a no effect finding; 
    or
        (3) the applicant has obtained and is in compliance with a written 
    agreement between the applicant and the SHPO or THPO that outlines all 
    measures to be undertaken by the applicant to mitigate or prevent 
    adverse effects to the historic property; or
        (4) the applicant agrees to implement and comply with the terms of 
    a written agreement between another owner/operator (e.g., subdivision 
    developer, property owner, etc.) and the SHPO or THPO that outlines all 
    measures to be undertaken by operators on the site to mitigate or 
    prevent adverse effects to the historic property; or
        (5) the applicant's activity was considered as part of a larger, 
    more comprehensive site-specific assessment of effects on historic 
    properties by the owner or other operator of the site and that 
    permittee certified eligibility under item (1), (2), (3), or (4) above.
    C. Authorization
        1. A discharger must submit a Notice of Intent (NOI) in accordance 
    with the requirements of Part II of this permit, using an NOI form 
    provided by the Director (or a photocopy thereof), in
    
    [[Page 15661]]
    
    order for storm water discharges from construction sites to be 
    authorized to discharge under this general permit.\24\
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        \24\ A copy of the approved NOI form is provided in Appendix A 
    of this notice.
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        2. Where a new operator is selected after the submittal of an NOI 
    under Part II, a new NOI must be submitted by the operator in 
    accordance with Part II, using an NOI form provided by the Director (or 
    a photocopy thereof).
        3. Unless notified by the Director to the contrary, dischargers who 
    submit an NOI in accordance with the requirements of this permit are 
    authorized to discharge storm water from construction sites under the 
    terms and conditions of this permit 2 days after the date that the NOI 
    is postmarked. The Director may deny coverage under this permit and 
    require submittal of an application for an individual NPDES permit 
    based on a review of the NOI or other information (see Part VII.L of 
    this permit).
    
    Part II. Notice of Intent Requirements
    
    A. Deadlines for Notification.
        1. Except as provided in paragraphs II.A.2, II.A.3, II.A.4, and 
    II.A.5. individuals who intend to obtain coverage under this general 
    permit for storm water discharges from a construction site (where 
    disturbances associated with the construction project commence before 
    the effective date of this permit), including unpaved rural roads, 
    shall submit a Notice of Intent (NOI) in accordance with the 
    requirements of this Part within 30 days of the effective date of this 
    permit;
        2. Individuals who intend to obtain coverage under this general 
    permit for storm water discharges from a construction site, including 
    unpaved rural roads, where disturbances associated with the 
    construction project commence after April 3, 1998, shall submit an NOI 
    in accordance with the requirements of this Part, at least 2 days prior 
    to the commencement of construction activities (e.g. the initial 
    disturbance of soils associated with clearing, grading, excavation 
    activities, or other construction activities). Prior to submitting this 
    NOI, except for owners of facilities located within Indian country, as 
    defined in 18 USC 1151, the owner of a storm water management system 
    must receive a State of Florida storm water or environmental resource 
    permit from either the Florida Department of Environmental Protection 
    (FDEP) or a Florida Water Management District (FWMD);
        3. For storm water discharges from construction sites, including 
    unpaved rural roads, where the operator changes (including projects 
    where an operator is selected after an NOI has been submitted under 
    Parts II.A.1 or II.A.2), an NOI in accordance with the requirements of 
    this Part shall be submitted at least 2 days prior to when the operator 
    commences work at the site; and
        4. EPA will accept an NOI in accordance with the requirements of 
    this Part after the dates provided in Parts II.A.1, 2 or 3 of this 
    permit. EPA shall, in such instances, use its discretion in initiating 
    any appropriate enforcement actions.
        5. Applicants who have submitted a completed NOI for coverage under 
    the administratively continued previous general permit, issued 
    September 25, 1992 (57 FR 44412), or applicants who have submitted a 
    completed NOI for coverage under the general permit after its 
    expiration shall automatically receive coverage under today's permit. 
    If the applicant cannot certify that they meet all applicable 
    eligibility requirements of Part I.B of today's permit or cannot be 
    covered by, or comply with, the terms and conditions of this permit, 
    then the applicant shall notify the Director, in accordance with the 
    requirements of Part IX of this permit, within 90 days of the effective 
    date of this permit.
    B. Contents of Notice of Intent.
        Operators must use EPA's current NOI form [EPA Form 3510-9 which 
    replaces EPA Form 3510-6] to apply for permit coverage. (Note: the 
    revised NOI form was published in the March 6, 1998 Federal Register, 
    63 FR 11253). By completing and signing the current NOI form to obtain 
    permit coverage, operators are certifying that they meet all applicable 
    eligibility requirements of Part I.B of today's permit and are 
    informing the Director of their intent to be covered by, and comply 
    with, the terms and conditions of this permit. The Notice of Intent 
    shall be signed in accordance with Part VII.G of this permit by all of 
    the entities identified in Part II.B.2. The NOI shall include the 
    following information:
        1. The mailing address, and location (including the county) of the 
    construction site for which the notification is submitted. Where a 
    mailing address for the site is not available, the location of the 
    approximate center of the site must be described in terms of the 
    latitude and longitude to the nearest 15 seconds, or the section, 
    township and range to the nearest quarter section;
        2. The name, address and telephone number of the operator(s) with 
    day to day operational control that have been identified at the time of 
    the NOI submittal, and operator status as a Federal, State, private, 
    public or other entity. Where multiple operators have been selected at 
    the time of the initial NOI submittal, NOIs must be attached and 
    submitted in the same envelope. When an additional operator submits an 
    NOI for a site with a existing NPDES permit, the NOI for the additional 
    operators must indicate the number for the existing NPDES permit;
        3. The location of the first outfall in latitude and longitude to 
    the nearest 15 seconds and the name of the receiving water(s) into 
    which that outfall discharges, or if the discharge is through a 
    municipal separate storm sewer, the name of the municipal operator of 
    the storm sewer and the ultimate receiving water(s). (All other 
    outfalls must be listed in the pollution prevention plan as required by 
    Part V.);
        4. The permit number of any NPDES permit(s) for any discharge(s) 
    (including any storm water discharges or non-storm water discharges) 
    from the site;
        5. An indication of whether the owner or operator has existing 
    quantitative data which describes the concentration of pollutants in 
    storm water discharges (existing data should not be included as part of 
    the NOI); and
        6. An estimate of project start date and completion dates, 
    estimates of the number of acres of the site on which soil will be 
    disturbed, and a certification that a storm water pollution prevention 
    plan has been prepared for the site in accordance with Part V of this 
    permit. (A copy of the plans or permits should not be included with the 
    NOI submission). For activities located in the State of Florida, the 
    applicant shall submit a narrative statement certifying that the storm 
    water pollution prevention plan for the facility provides compliance 
    with approved State of Florida issued permits, erosion and sediment 
    control plans and storm water management plans. The applicant shall 
    also submit a copy of the cover page of the State permit issued by FDEP 
    or a FWMD to the facility for the storm water discharges associated 
    with construction activity.
        7. A certification that a storm water pollution prevention plan, 
    including both construction and post-construction controls, has been 
    prepared for the site in accordance with Part IV of this permit, and 
    such plan provides compliance with approved State/Tribal and/or local 
    sediment and erosion plans or permits and/or storm water management 
    plans or permits in accordance with Part IV.D.2.d of this permit. (A 
    copy of the plans or permits should not be included with the NOI
    
    [[Page 15662]]
    
    submission). The applicant shall also submit a copy of the cover page 
    of the State permit issued by FDEP or a FWMD to the facility for the 
    storm water discharges associated with construction activity.
        8. Whether, based on the instructions in Appendix C, any species 
    identified in Appendix C are in proximity to the storm water discharges 
    covered by this permit or the BMPs to be used to comply with permit 
    conditions.
        9. Under which section(s) of Part I.B.3.e.(1)(Endangered Species) 
    and Part I.B.3.f. (Historical Preservation) the applicant is certifying 
    eligibility.
        10. The following certifications shall be signed in accordance with 
    Part VI.G.
    
        ``I certify under penalty of law that I have read and understand 
    the Part I.B. eligibility requirements for coverage under the 
    general permit for storm water discharges from construction 
    activities, including those requirements relating to the protection 
    of endangered species identified in Appendix C.''
    
        ``To the best of my knowledge the discharges covered under this 
    permit, and the construction and operation of BMPs to control storm 
    water runoff, are not likely to adversely affect any species 
    identified in Appendix C of this permit, or are otherwise eligible 
    for coverage under this permit, in accordance with Part I.B.3.e of 
    the permit, due to previous authorization under the Endangered 
    Species Act, or agreement to implement protective measures required 
    by the Director as a condition of eligibility.''
    
        ``I further certify, to the best of my knowledge, that such 
    discharges, and construction of BMPs to control storm water runoff, 
    do not have an effect on properties listed or eligible for listing 
    on the National Register of Historic Places under the National 
    Historic Preservation Act, or are otherwise eligible for coverage , 
    in accordance with Part I.B.3.f. of the permit, due to a previous 
    agreement under the National Historic Preservation Act.''
    
        ``I understand that continued coverage under this storm water 
    general permit is contingent upon maintaining eligibility as 
    provided for in Part I.B.''
    C. Where to Submit.
        1. Facilities which discharge storm water associated with 
    industrial activity must use an NOI form provided by the Director (or 
    photocopy thereof). Currently, applicants may use the NOI form 
    published in the September 29, 1995 Federal Register (60 FR 51265). The 
    final version of the NOI form proposed in the June 2, 1997 Federal 
    Register (62 FR 29785) shall be used when published in the Federal 
    Register. Forms are also available by calling (404)562-9296. NOIs must 
    be signed in accordance with Part VII.G of this permit. NOIs are to be 
    submitted to the Director of the NPDES program in care of the following 
    address: Storm Water Notice of Intent (4203) 401 M Street, S.W. 
    Washington, DC 20460
        2. A copy of the NOI or other indication that storm water 
    discharges from the site are covered under an NPDES permit, and a brief 
    description of the project shall be posted at the construction site in 
    a prominent place for public viewing (such as alongside a building 
    permit).
    D. Additional Notification
        Facilities which are operating under approved State or local 
    sediment and erosion plans, grading plans, or storm water management 
    plans shall also submit signed copies of the Notice of Intent to the 
    State or local agency approving such plans in accordance with the 
    deadlines in Part II.A of this permit (or sooner where required by 
    State or local rules). Facilities which discharge storm water 
    associated with construction activities to a municipal separate storm 
    water system within Broward, Dade, Duval, Escambia, Hillsborough, Lee, 
    Leon, Manatee, Orange, Palm Beach, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Sarasota or 
    Seminole Counties shall submit a copy of the NOI to the operator of the 
    municipal separate storm sewer system. Included within these counties, 
    the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), incorporated 
    municipalities, and Chapter 298 Special Districts shall also be 
    notified where they own or operate a municipal separate storm sewer 
    system receiving storm water discharges associated with construction 
    activity covered by this permit.
    E. Permit Renewal
        If this general permit is not reissued prior to its expiration 
    date, all facilities desiring to retain continued coverage shall submit 
    another NOI form prior to the expiration of this permit. This submittal 
    shall also satisfy the notification requirement to be covered under the 
    reissued permit.
    
    Part III. Special Conditions, Management Practices, and Other Non-
    Numeric Limitations
    
    A. Prohibition on Non-storm Water Discharges
        1. Except as provided in paragraph I.B.2 and III.A.2, all 
    discharges covered by this permit shall be composed entirely of storm 
    water.
        2. a. Except as provided in paragraph III.A.2.(b), discharges of 
    material other than storm water must be in compliance with a NPDES 
    permit (other than this permit) issued for the discharge.
        b. The following non-storm water discharges may be authorized by 
    this permit provided the non-storm water component of the discharge is 
    in compliance with paragraph V.D.5 and the storm water management 
    system is designed to accept these discharges and provide treatment of 
    the non-storm water component sufficient to meet Florida water quality 
    standards: discharges from fire fighting activities; fire hydrant 
    flushings; waters used to spray off loose solids from vehicles (waste 
    waters from a more thorough cleaning, including the use of detergents 
    or other cleaners is not authorized by this part) or control dust in 
    accordance with Part V.D.2.c.(2); potable water sources including 
    waterline flushings; irrigation drainage; routine external building 
    washdown which does not use detergents; pavement washwaters where 
    spills or leaks of toxic or hazardous materials have not occurred 
    (unless all spilled material has been removed) and where detergents are 
    not used; air conditioning condensate; springs; and foundation or 
    footing drains where flows are not contaminated with process materials 
    such as solvents. Discharges resulting from ground water dewatering 
    activities at construction sites are not covered by this permit. 
    Applicants in the State of Florida seeking coverage for these 
    discharges must contact the Florida Department of Environmental 
    Protection.
    B. Releases in Excess of Reportable Quantities.
        1. The discharge of hazardous substances or oil in the storm water 
    discharge(s) from a facility shall be prevented or minimized in 
    accordance with the applicable storm water pollution prevention plan 
    for the facility. This permit does not relieve the permittee of the 
    reporting requirements of 40 CFR part 117 and 40 CFR part 302. Where a 
    release containing a hazardous substance in an amount equal to or in 
    excess of a reporting quantity established under either 40 CFR 117 or 
    40 CFR 302, occurs during a 24 hour period:
        a. The permittee is required to notify the National Response Center 
    (NRC) (800-424-8802 or for Region 4, 404-562-8702) in accordance with 
    the requirements of 40 CFR 117 and 40 CFR 302 as soon as he or she has 
    knowledge of the discharge;
        b. The permittee shall submit within 14 calendar days of knowledge 
    of the release a written description of: the release (including the 
    type and estimate of the amount of material released), the date that 
    such release occurred, the circumstances leading to the release, and 
    steps to be taken in accordance with Part III.B.3 of this permit to EPA 
    Region
    
    [[Page 15663]]
    
    4 Office at the address provided in Part VI.C (addresses) of this 
    permit; and
        c. The storm water pollution prevention plan required under Part V 
    of this permit must be modified within 14 calendar days of knowledge of 
    the release to: provide a description of the release, the circumstances 
    leading to the release, and the date of the release. In addition, the 
    plan must be reviewed to identify measures to prevent the reoccurrence 
    of such releases and to respond to such releases, and the plan must be 
    modified where appropriate.
        2. Spills. This permit does not authorize the discharge of 
    hazardous substances or oil resulting from an on-site spill.
    
    Part IV. Unpaved Rural Roads
    
    A. Applicability
        The provisions of this part are applicable to the construction of 
    roads, except roads constructed and associated with silviculture and 
    agricultural activities as defined by 40 CFR Part 122, that disturb 
    five (5) acres or more and will remain unpaved after construction is 
    complete.
    B. Construction
        In the State of Florida, construction of unpaved rural roads where 
    the possibility of a point source discharge to surface waters exists, 
    must all erosion and sediment controls and storm water management 
    practices as needed to be consistent with the requirements set forth in 
    State Water Policy (Chapter 62-40, FAC), the applicable storm water or 
    environmental resource permitting requirements of the FDEP or 
    appropriate FWMD, and the guidelines contained in the Florida 
    Development Manual: A Guide to Sound Land and Water Management (FDEP, 
    1988) and any subsequent amendments.
    C. Notice of Termination
        Where a site has been finally stabilized and all storm water 
    discharges from construction activities that are authorized by this 
    permit are eliminated (see Part IX.A.5. for the definition of 
    eliminated), or where the operator of all storm water discharges at a 
    facility changes, the operator of the facility may submit a Notice of 
    Termination that is signed in accordance with Part VII.G of this 
    permit.
    
    Part V. Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plans
    
        A storm water pollution prevention plan shall be developed for each 
    construction site covered by this permit. Storm water pollution 
    prevention plans shall be prepared in accordance with good engineering 
    practices. The plan shall identify potential sources of pollution which 
    may reasonably be expected to affect the quality of storm water 
    discharges from the construction site. In addition, the plan shall 
    describe and ensure the implementation of practices which will be used 
    to reduce the pollutants in storm water discharges associated with 
    industrial activity at the construction site and to assure compliance 
    with the terms and conditions of this permit. Facilities must implement 
    the provisions of the storm water pollution prevention plan required 
    under this part as a condition of this permit.
    A. Deadlines for Plan Preparation and Compliance
        The plan shall:
        1. Be completed (including certifications required under Part V.E) 
    prior to the submittal of an NOI to be covered under this permit and 
    updated as appropriate;
        2. The plan shall provide for compliance with the terms and 
    schedule of the plan beginning with the initiation of construction 
    activities.
    B. Signature and Plan Review
        1. The plan shall be signed in accordance with Part VII.G, and be 
    retained on-site at the facility which generates the storm water 
    discharge in accordance with Part V (retention of records) of this 
    permit.
        2. The permittee shall submit plans to the State agency which 
    issued the storm water or environmental resource permit referenced in 
    Part II.B.6. and shall make plans available upon request to the 
    Director; a State or local agency approving sediment and erosion plans, 
    grading plans, or storm water management plans; or in the case of a 
    storm water discharge associated with industrial activity which 
    discharges through a municipal separate storm sewer system with an 
    NPDES permit, to the municipal operator of the system.
        3. The Director may notify the permittee at any time that the plan 
    does not meet one or more of the minimum requirements of this Part. 
    Such notification shall identify those provisions of the permit which 
    are not being met by the plan, and identify which provisions of the 
    plan requires modifications in order to meet the minimum requirements 
    of this Part. Within 7 days of such notification from the Director, (or 
    as otherwise provided by the Director), or authorized representative, 
    the permittee shall make the required changes to the plan and shall 
    submit to the Director a written certification that the requested 
    changes have been made.
    C. Keeping Plans Current
        The permittee shall amend the plan whenever there is a change in 
    design, construction, operation, or maintenance, which has a 
    significant effect on the potential for the discharge of pollutants to 
    the waters of the United States, including the addition of or change in 
    location of storm water discharge points, and which has not otherwise 
    been addressed in the plan or if the storm water pollution prevention 
    plan proves to be ineffective in eliminating or significantly 
    minimizing pollutants from sources identified under Part V.D.2 of this 
    permit, or in otherwise achieving the general objectives of controlling 
    pollutants in storm water discharges associated with construction 
    activity. In addition, the plan shall be amended to identify any new 
    contractor and/or subcontractor that will implement a measure of the 
    storm water pollution prevention plan (see Part V.E). Amendments to the 
    plan shall be prepared, dated, and kept as separate documents from the 
    original plan. The amendments to the plan may be reviewed by EPA in the 
    same manner as Part V.B above. Amendments to the plan must be submitted 
    to the State agency which issued the State storm water or environmental 
    resource permit.
    D. Contents of Plan
        The storm water pollution prevention plan shall include the 
    following items:
        1. Site Description. Each plan shall provide a description of 
    pollutant sources and other information as indicated:
        a. A description of the nature of the construction activity;
        b. A description of the intended sequence of major activities which 
    disturb soils for major portions of the site (e.g. grubbing, 
    excavation, grading);
        c. Estimates of the total area of the site and the total area of 
    the site that is expected to be disturbed by excavation, grading, or 
    other activities;
        d. An estimate of the runoff coefficient of the site before, during 
    and after construction activities are completed using ``C'' from the 
    Rational Method, and existing data describing the soil or the quality 
    of any discharge from the site and an estimate of the size of the 
    drainage area for each outfall;
        e. A site map indicating drainage patterns and approximate slopes 
    anticipated after major grading activities, areas of soil disturbance, 
    an outline of areas which may not be disturbed, the location of major 
    structural and nonstructural controls
    
    [[Page 15664]]
    
    identified in the plan, the location of areas where stabilization 
    practices are expected to occur, surface waters (including wetlands), 
    and locations where storm water is discharged to a surface water; and,
        f. The location in terms of latitude and longitude, to the nearest 
    15 seconds, of each outfall, the name of the receiving water(s) for 
    each outfall and the amount of any wetland acreage at the site.
        2. Controls. Each plan shall include a description of appropriate 
    controls and measures that will be implemented at the construction 
    site. The plan will clearly describe for each major activity identified 
    in Part V.D.1.b appropriate control measures and the timing during the 
    construction process that the measures will be implemented. (For 
    example, perimeter controls for one portion of the site will be 
    installed after the clearing and grubbing necessary for installation of 
    the measure, but before the clearing and grubbing for the remaining 
    portions of the site. Perimeter controls will be actively maintained 
    until final stabilization of those portions of the site upward of the 
    perimeter control. Temporary perimeter controls will be removed after 
    final stabilization). All controls shall be consistent with the 
    requirements set forth in the State Water Policy of Florida (Chapter 
    62-40, Florida Administrative Code), the applicable storm water or 
    environmental resource permitting requirements of the FDEP or 
    appropriate FWMD, and the guidelines contained in the Florida 
    Development Manual: A Guide to Sound Land and Water Management (FDEP, 
    1988) and any subsequent amendments. The description and implementation 
    of controls shall address the following minimum components:
        a. Erosion and Sediment Controls. (1) Stabilization Practices. A 
    description of interim and permanent stabilization practices, including 
    site-specific scheduling of the implementation of the practices. Site 
    plans should ensure that existing vegetation is preserved where 
    attainable and that disturbed portions of the site are stabilized. 
    Stabilization practices may include: temporary seeding, permanent 
    seeding, mulching, geotextiles, sod stabilization, vegetative buffer 
    strips, protection of trees, preservation of mature vegetation, and 
    other appropriate measures. A record of the dates when major grading 
    activities occur, when construction activities temporarily or 
    permanently cease on a portion of the site and when stabilization 
    measures are initiated shall be included in the plan. Stabilization 
    measures shall be initiated as soon as practicable, but in no case more 
    than 14 days, in portions of the site where construction activities 
    have temporarily or permanently ceased.
        (2) Structural Practices. A description of structural practices, to 
    divert flows from exposed soils, store flows or otherwise limit runoff 
    and the discharge of pollutants from exposed areas of the site; and in 
    the State of Florida, in accordance with the requirements set forth in 
    Section 62-40, 420, FAC, and the applicable storm water or 
    environmental resource regulations of the FDEP or appropriate FWMD. 
    Such practices may include silt fences, earth dikes, drainage swales, 
    sediment traps, check dams, subsurface drains, pipe slope drains, level 
    spreaders, storm drain inlet protection, rock outlet protection, 
    reinforced soil retaining systems, gabions, and temporary or permanent 
    sediment basins. Structural practices should be placed on upland soils 
    unless a State of Florida wetland resource management permit or 
    environmental resource permit issued pursuant to Chapters 373 or 403, 
    FS, and applicable regulations of the FDEP or FWMD authorize otherwise. 
    The installation of these devices may be subject to Section 404 of the 
    CWA.
        (a) For common drainage locations that serve an area with more than 
    10 disturbed acres at one time, a temporary (or permanent) sediment 
    basin providing 3,600 cubic feet of storage per acre drained, or 
    equivalent control measures, shall be provided where attainable until 
    final stabilization of the site. The 3,600 cubic feet of storage area 
    per acre drained does not apply to flows from offsite areas and flows 
    from onsite areas that are either undisturbed or have undergone final 
    stabilization where such flows are diverted around both the disturbed 
    area and the sediment basin. For drainage locations which serve more 
    than 10 disturbed acres at one time and where a temporary sediment 
    basin providing 3,600 cubic feet of storage per acre drained, or 
    equivalent controls is not attainable, smaller sediment basins and/or 
    sediment traps should be used. At a minimum, silt fences, or equivalent 
    sediment controls are required for all sideslope and downslope 
    boundaries of the construction area.
        (b) For drainage locations serving less than 10 acres, sediment 
    basins and/or sediment traps should be used. At a minimum, silt fences 
    or equivalent sediment controls are required for all sideslope and 
    downslope boundaries of the construction area unless a sediment basin 
    providing storage for 3,600 cubic feet of storage per acre drained is 
    provided.
        b. Storm Water Management. A description of measures that will be 
    installed during the construction process to control pollutants in 
    storm water discharges that will occur after construction operations 
    have been completed. In the State of Florida, the description of 
    controls shall be consistent with the requirements set forth in the 
    State Water Policy of Florida (Chapter 62-40, FAC), the applicable 
    storm water or environmental resource permitting regulations of the 
    guidelines contained in the Florida Development Manual: A Guide to 
    Sound Land and Water Management (FDEP, 1988), and any subsequent 
    amendments. Structural measures should be placed on upland soils unless 
    a State of Florida wetland resource management permit or environmental 
    resource permit issued pursuant to Chapters 373 or 403, FS, and 
    applicable regulations of the FDEP or FWMD authorize otherwise. The 
    installation of these devices may be subject to Section 404 of the CWA. 
    This NPDES permit only addresses the installation of storm water 
    management measures, and not the ultimate operation and maintenance of 
    such structures after the construction activities have been completed 
    and the site has undergone final stabilization. Permittees are only 
    responsible for the installation and maintenance of storm water 
    management measures prior to final stabilization of the site, and are 
    not responsible for maintenance after storm water discharges associated 
    with industrial activity have been eliminated from the site. However, 
    all storm water management systems shall be operated and maintained in 
    perpetuity after final stabilization in accordance with requirements 
    set forth in the State of Florida storm water or environmental resource 
    permit issued for the site.
        (1) Such practices may include: storm water detention structures 
    (including wet ponds); storm water retention structures; flow 
    attenuation by use of open vegetated swales and natural depressions; 
    infiltration of runoff onsite; and sequential systems (which combine 
    several practices). In the State of Florida, pursuant to the 
    requirements of section 62-40.432, FAC, the storm water management 
    system shall be designed to remove at least 80 percent of the average 
    annual load of pollutants which cause or contribute to violations of 
    water quality standards ( 95 percent if the system discharges to an 
    Outstanding Florida Water). The pollution prevention plan shall include 
    an explanation of the technical basis used to select the practices to 
    control
    
    [[Page 15665]]
    
    pollution where flows exceed predevelopment levels.
        (2) Velocity dissipation devices shall be placed at discharge 
    locations and along the length of any outfall channel for the purpose 
    of providing a non-erosive velocity flow from the structure to a water 
    course so that the natural physical and biological characteristics and 
    functions are maintained and protected (e.g., no significant changes in 
    the hydrological regime of the receiving water). Equalization of the 
    predevelopment and post-development storm water peak discharge rate and 
    volume shall be a goal in the design of the post-development storm 
    water management system.
        c. Other Controls. (1). Waste Disposal. No solid materials, 
    including building materials, shall be discharged to waters of the 
    United States, except as authorized by a Section 404 permit and by a 
    State of Florida wetland resource management permit or environmental 
    resource permit issued pursuant to chapters 373 or 403, FS, and the 
    applicable regulations of the FDEP or FWMD.
        (2) Off-site vehicle tracking of sediments and the generation of 
    dust shall be minimized.
        (3) The plan shall ensure and demonstrate compliance with 
    applicable State and/or local waste disposal, sanitary sewer or septic 
    system regulations.
        (4) The plan shall address the proper application rates and methods 
    for the use of fertilizers and pesticides at the construction site and 
    set forth how these procedures will be implemented and enforced. 
    Nutrients will be applied only at rates necessary to establish and 
    maintain vegetation such that discharges will not cause or contribute 
    to violations of State surface or ground water quality standards.
        (5) The plan shall ensure that the application, generation, and 
    migration of toxic substances is limited and that toxic materials are 
    properly stored and disposed.
        d. Approved State or Local Plans. (1) Facilities which discharge 
    storm water associated with construction activity must include in their 
    storm water pollution prevention plan procedures and requirements 
    specified in applicable sediment and erosion site plans or site 
    permits, or storm water management site plans or site permits approved 
    by State, Tribal or local officials. Permittees shall provide a 
    certification in their storm water pollution prevention plan that their 
    storm water pollution prevention plan reflects requirements applicable 
    to protecting surface water resources in sediment and erosion site 
    plans or site permits, or storm water management site plans or site 
    permits approved by State, Tribal or local officials. Permittees shall 
    comply with any such requirements during the term of the permit. This 
    provision does not apply to provisions of master plans, comprehensive 
    plans, non-enforceable guidelines or technical guidance documents that 
    are not identified in a specific plan or permit that is issued for the 
    construction site.
        (2) Storm water pollution prevention plans must be amended to 
    reflect any change applicable to protecting surface water resources in 
    sediment and erosion site plans or site permits, or storm water 
    management site plans or site permits approved by State or local 
    officials for which the permittee receives written notice. Where the 
    permittee receives such written notice of a change, the permittee shall 
    provide a recertification in the storm water pollution plan that the 
    storm water pollution prevention plan has been modified to address such 
    changes.
        (3) Dischargers seeking alternative permit requirements shall 
    submit an individual permit application in accordance with Part VII.L 
    of the permit at the address indicated in Part V.C of this permit for 
    the appropriate Regional Office, along with a description of why 
    requirements in approved State or local plans or permits, or changes to 
    such plans or permits should not be applicable as a condition of an 
    NPDES permit.
        3. Maintenance. A description of procedures to ensure the timely 
    maintenance of vegetation, erosion and sediment control measures and 
    other protective measures identified in the site plan in good and 
    effective operating conditions.
        4. Inspections. Qualified personnel (provided by the discharger) 
    shall inspect all points of discharge into waters of the United States 
    or to a municipal separate storm sewer system and all disturbed areas 
    of the construction site that have not been finally stabilized, areas 
    used for storage of materials that are exposed to precipitation, 
    structural control measures, structural control measures, and locations 
    where vehicles enter or exit the site at least once every seven 
    calendar days and within 24 hours of the end of a storm that is 0.25 
    inches or greater. Where sites have been finally stabilized; such 
    inspection shall be conducted at least once every month.
        a. Disturbed areas and areas used for storage of materials that are 
    exposed to precipitation shall be inspected for evidence of, or the 
    potential for, pollutants entering the storm water system. The storm 
    water management system and erosion and sediment control measures 
    identified in the plan shall be observed to ensure that they are 
    operating correctly. In the State of Florida, where discharge locations 
    or points are accessible, they shall be inspected to ascertain whether 
    erosion control measures are effective in meeting the performance 
    standards set forth in State Water Policy (chapter 62-40, FAC) and the 
    applicable storm water or environmental resource permitting regulations 
    of the FDEP or appropriate FWMD. Locations where vehicles enter or exit 
    the site shall be inspected for evidence of offsite sediment tracking.
        b. Based on the results of the inspection, the site description 
    identified in the plan in accordance with paragraph V.D.1 of this 
    permit and pollution prevention measures identified in the plan in 
    accordance with paragraph V.D.2 of this permit shall be revised as 
    appropriate, but in no case later than 7 calendar days following the 
    inspection. Such modifications shall provide for timely implementation 
    of any changes to the plan within 7 calendar days following the 
    inspection.
        c. A report summarizing the scope of the inspection, name(s) and 
    qualifications of personnel making the inspection, the date(s) of the 
    inspection, major observations relating to the implementation of the 
    storm water pollution prevention plan, and actions taken in accordance 
    with paragraph V.D.4.b of the permit shall be made and retained as part 
    of the storm water pollution prevention plan for at least three years 
    from the date that the site is finally stabilized. Such reports shall 
    identify any incidents of non-compliance. Where a report does not 
    identify any incidents of non-compliance, the report shall contain a 
    certification that the facility is in compliance with the storm water 
    pollution prevention plan and this permit. The report shall be signed 
    in accordance with Part VII.G of this permit.
        5. Non-Storm Water Discharges--Except for flows from fire fighting 
    activities, sources of non-storm water listed in Part III.A.2 of this 
    permit that are combined with storm water discharges associated with 
    construction activity must be identified in the plan. The plan shall 
    identify and ensure the implementation of appropriate pollution 
    prevention measures for the non-storm water component(s) of the 
    discharge.
    
    [[Page 15666]]
    
    E. Contractors
        1. The storm water pollution prevention plan must clearly identify 
    for each measure identified in the plan, the contractor(s) and/or 
    subcontractor(s) that will implement the measure. All contractors and 
    subcontractors identified in the plan must sign a copy of the 
    certification statement in Part V.E.2 of this permit in accordance with 
    Part VII.G of this permit. All certifications must be included in the 
    storm water pollution prevention plan.
        2. Certification Statement. All contractors and subcontractors 
    identified in a storm water pollution prevention plan in accordance 
    with Part V.E.1 of this permit shall sign a copy of the following 
    certification statement before conducting any professional service 
    identified in the storm water pollution prevention plan:
    
        I certify under penalty of law that I understand the terms and 
    conditions of the general National Pollutant Discharge Elimination 
    System (NPDES) permit that authorizes the storm water discharges 
    associated with industrial activity from the construction site 
    identified as part of this certification.
    
        The certification must include the name and title of the person 
    providing the signature in accordance with Part VII.G of this permit; 
    the name, address and telephone number of the contracting firm; the 
    address (or other identifying description) of the site; and the date 
    the certification is made.
    
    Part VI. Retention of Records
    
        A. The permittee shall retain copies of storm water pollution 
    prevention plans and all reports required by this permit, and records 
    of all data used to complete the Notice of Intent to be covered by this 
    permit, for a period of at least three years from the date that the 
    site is finally stabilized. This period may be extended by request of 
    the Director at any time.
        B. The permittee shall retain a copy of the storm water pollution 
    prevention plan required by this permit at the construction site from 
    the date of project initiation to the date of final stabilization.
        C. Addresses. Except for the submittal of NOIs (Part II.C) and NOTs 
    (Part IX), all written correspondence directed to the U.S. 
    Environmental Protection Agency concerning discharges in the State of 
    Florida or an Indian lands located in Region 4, and subject to coverage 
    under this permit, including the submittal of individual permit 
    applications, shall be sent to the address listed below:
    
    U.S. EPA, Region 4, Surface Water Permits Section, Water Management 
    Division, Atlanta Federal Center, 61 Forsyth St., SW., Atlanta, GA 
    30303
    
    Part VII. Standard Permit Conditions
    
    A. Duty To Comply
        1. The permittee must comply with all conditions of this permit. 
    Any permit noncompliance constitutes a violation of the CWA and is 
    grounds for enforcement action; for permit termination, revocation and 
    reissuance, or modification; or for denial of a permit renewal 
    application.
        2. Penalties for Violations of Permit Conditions.
        a. Criminal. (1) Negligent Violations. The CWA provides that any 
    person who negligently violates permit conditions implementing Sections 
    301, 302, 306, 307, 308, 318, or 405 of the Act is subject to a fine of 
    not less than $2,500 nor more than $25,000 per day of violation, or by 
    imprisonment for not more than 1 year, or both.
        (2) Knowing Violations. The CWA provides that any person who 
    knowingly violates permit conditions implementing Sections 301, 302, 
    306, 307, 308, 318, or 405 of the Act is subject to a fine of not less 
    than $5,000 nor more than $50,000 per day of violation, or by 
    imprisonment for not more than 3 years, or both.
        (3) Knowing Endangerment. The CWA provides that any person who 
    knowingly violates permit conditions implementing Sections 301, 302, 
    306, 307, 308, 318, or 405 of the Act and who knows at that time that 
    he is placing another person in imminent danger of death or serious 
    bodily injury is subject to a fine of not more than $250,000, or by 
    imprisonment for not more than 15 years, or both.
        (4). False Statement. The CWA provides that any person who 
    knowingly makes any false material statement, representation, or 
    certification in any application, record, report, plan, or other 
    document filed or required to be maintained under the Act or who 
    knowingly falsifies, tampers with, or renders inaccurate, any 
    monitoring device or method required to be maintained under the Act, 
    shall upon conviction, be punished by a fine of not more than $10,000 
    or by imprisonment for not more than 2 years, or by both. If a 
    conviction is for a violation committed after a first conviction of 
    such person under this paragraph, punishment shall be by a fine of not 
    more than $20,000 per day of violation, or by imprisonment of not more 
    than 4 years, or by both. (See Section 309.c.4 of the Clean Water Act).
        b. Civil Penalties--The CWA provides that any person who violates a 
    permit condition implementing Sections 301, 302, 306, 307, 308, 318, or 
    405 of the Act is subject to a civil penalty not to exceed $25,000 per 
    day for each violation.
        c. Administrative Penalties--The CWA provides that any person who 
    violates a permit condition implementing Sections 301, 302, 306, 307, 
    308, 318, or 405 of the Act is subject to an administrative penalty, as 
    follows:
        (1) Class I penalty. Not to exceed $10,000 per violation nor shall 
    the maximum amount exceed $25,000.
        (2) Class II penalty. Not to exceed $10,000 per day for each day 
    during which the violation continues nor shall the maximum amount 
    exceed $125,000.
    B. Continuation of the Expired General Permit
        This permit expires at midnight 5 years from April 3, 1998. If this 
    general permit is not reissued prior to its expiration date, all 
    facilities desiring to retain continued coverage shall submit another 
    NOI form prior to the expiration of this permit. This submittal shall 
    also satisfy the notification requirement to be covered under the 
    reissued permit. Facilities that have not obtained coverage under this 
    permit by the expiration date of this permit cannot become authorized 
    to discharge under the continued permit.
        The authorization to discharge under the continued previous general 
    permit, issued on September 25, 1992 (57 FR 44412), expires 90 days 
    from April 3, 1998.
    C. Need To Halt or Reduce Activity Not a Defense
        It shall not be a defense for a permittee in an enforcement action 
    that it would have been necessary to halt or reduce the permitted 
    activity in order to maintain compliance with the conditions of this 
    permit.
    D. Duty To Mitigate
        The permittee shall take all reasonable steps to minimize or 
    prevent any discharge in violation of this permit which has a 
    reasonable likelihood of adversely affecting human health or the 
    environment.
    E. Duty To Provide Information
        The permittee shall furnish within a reasonable time to the 
    Director; an authorized representative of the Director; a State or 
    local agency approving sediment and erosion plans, grading plans, or 
    storm water management plans; or in the case of a
    
    [[Page 15667]]
    
    storm water discharge associated with industrial activity which 
    discharges through a municipal separate storm sewer system with an 
    NPDES permit, to the municipal operator of the system, any information 
    which is requested to determine compliance with this permit or other 
    information.
    F. Other Information
        When the permittee becomes aware that he or she failed to submit 
    any relevant facts or submitted incorrect information in the Notice of 
    Intent or in any other report to the Director, he or she shall promptly 
    submit such facts or information.
    G. Signatory Requirements
        All Notices of Intent, storm water pollution prevention plans, 
    reports, certifications or information either submitted to the Director 
    or the operator of a large or medium municipal separate storm sewer 
    system, or that this permit requires be maintained by the permittee, 
    shall be signed as follows:
        1. All Notices of Intent shall be signed as follows:
        a. For a corporation: by a responsible corporate officer. For the 
    purpose of this section, a responsible corporate officer means: (1) a 
    president, secretary, treasurer, or vice-president of the corporation 
    in charge of a principal business function, or any other person who 
    performs similar policy or decision-making functions for the 
    corporation; or (2) the manager of one or more manufacturing, 
    production or operating facilities employing more than 250 persons or 
    having gross annual sales or expenditures exceeding $25,000,000 (in 
    second-quarter 1980 dollars) if authority to sign documents has been 
    assigned or delegated to the manager in accordance with corporate 
    procedures;
        b. For a partnership or sole proprietorship: by a general partner 
    or the proprietor, respectively; or
        c. For a municipality, State, Federal, or other public agency: by 
    either a principal executive officer or ranking elected official. For 
    purposes of this section, a principal executive officer of a Federal 
    agency includes (1) the chief executive officer of the agency, or (2) a 
    senior executive officer having responsibility for the overall 
    operations of a principal geographic unit of the agency (e.g., Regional 
    Administrators of EPA).
        2. All reports required by the permit and other information 
    requested by the Director or authorized representative of the Director 
    shall be signed by a person described above or by a duly authorized 
    representative of that person. A person is a duly authorized 
    representative only if:
        a. The authorization is made in writing by a person described above 
    and submitted to the Director.
        b. The authorization specifies either an individual or a position 
    having responsibility for the overall operation of the regulated 
    facility or activity, such as the position of manager, operator, 
    superintendent, or position of equivalent responsibility or an 
    individual or position having overall responsibility for environmental 
    matters for the company. (A duly authorized representative may thus be 
    either a named individual or any individual occupying a named 
    position).
        c. Changes to authorization. If an authorization under paragraph 
    II.B.3. is no longer accurate because a different operator has 
    responsibility for the overall operation of the construction site, a 
    new notice of intent satisfying the requirements of paragraph II.B. 
    must be submitted to the Director prior to or together with any 
    reports, information, or applications to be signed by an authorized 
    representative.
        d. Certification. Any person signing documents under paragraph VI.G 
    shall make the following certification:
    
        I certify under penalty of law that this document and all 
    attachments were prepared under my direction or supervision in 
    accordance with a system designed to assure that qualified personnel 
    properly gathered and evaluated the information submitted. Based on 
    my inquiry of the person or persons who manage the system, or those 
    persons directly responsible for gathering the information, the 
    information submitted is, to the best of my knowledge and belief, 
    true, accurate, and complete. I am aware that there are significant 
    penalties for submitting false information, including the 
    possibility of fine and imprisonment for knowing violations.
    H. Penalties for Falsification of Reports
        Section 309(c)(4) of the Clean Water Act provides that any person 
    who knowingly makes any false material statement, representation, or 
    certification in any record or other document submitted or required to 
    be maintained under this permit, including reports of compliance or 
    noncompliance shall, upon conviction, be punished by a fine of not more 
    than $10,000, or by imprisonment for not more than 2 years, or by both.
    I. Penalties for Falsification of Monitoring Systems
        The Clean Water Act provides that any person who falsifies, tampers 
    with, or knowingly renders inaccurate any monitoring device or method 
    required to be maintained under this permit shall, upon conviction, be 
    punished by a fine of not more than $10,000, or by imprisonment for not 
    more than 2 years, or both. If a conviction of a person is for a 
    violation committed after a first conviction of such person under this 
    paragraph, punishment is a fine of not more than $20,000 per day of 
    violation, or by imprisonment of not more than 4 years, or both.
    J. Oil and Hazardous Substance Liability
        Nothing in this permit shall be construed to preclude the 
    institution of any legal action or relieve the permittee from any 
    responsibilities, liabilities, or penalties to which the permittee is 
    or may be subject under section 311 of the CWA or section 106 of the 
    Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act of 
    1980 (CERCLA).
    K. Property Rights
        The issuance of this permit does not convey any property rights of 
    any sort, nor any exclusive privileges, nor does it authorize any 
    injury to private property nor any invasion of personal rights, nor any 
    infringement of Federal, State or local laws or regulations.
    L. Severability
        The provisions of this permit are severable, and if any provision 
    of this permit, or the application of any provision of this permit to 
    any circumstance, is held invalid, the application of such provision to 
    other circumstances, and the remainder of this permit shall not be 
    affected thereby.
    M. Transfers
        Coverage under this permit is not transferable to any person except 
    after notice to the Director. The Director may require termination of 
    permit coverage by the current permittee in accordance with Part IX of 
    this permit; and the subsequent submission a Notice of Intent to 
    receive coverage under the permit by the new applicant in accordance 
    with Part II of this permit.
    N. Requiring an Individual Permit or an Alternative General Permit
        1. The Director may require any person authorized by this permit to 
    apply for and/or obtain either an individual NPDES permit or an 
    alternative NPDES general permit. Any interested person may petition 
    the Director to take action under this paragraph. Where the Director 
    requires a discharger authorized to discharge under this permit to 
    apply for an individual NPDES permit, the Director shall notify the 
    discharger in writing that a permit application is required. This 
    notification shall include a brief
    
    [[Page 15668]]
    
    statement of the reasons for this decision, an application form, a 
    statement setting a deadline for the discharger to file the 
    application, and a statement that on the effective date of issuance or 
    denial of the individual NPDES permit or the alternative general permit 
    as it applies to the individual permittee, coverage under this general 
    permit shall automatically terminate. Applications shall be submitted 
    to the appropriate Regional Office indicated in Part V.C of this 
    permit. The Director may grant additional time to submit the 
    application upon request of the applicant. If a discharger fails to 
    submit in a timely manner an individual NPDES permit application as 
    required by the Director under this paragraph, then the applicability 
    of this permit to the individual NPDES permittee is automatically 
    terminated at the end of the day specified by the Director for 
    application submittal.
        2. Any discharger authorized by this permit may request to be 
    excluded from the coverage of this permit by applying for an individual 
    permit. In such cases, the permittee shall submit an individual 
    application in accordance with the requirements of 40 CFR 
    122.26(c)(1)(ii), with reasons supporting the request, to the Director 
    at the address for the appropriate Regional Office indicated in Part 
    V.C of this permit. The request may be granted by issuance of any 
    individual permit or an alternative general permit if the reasons cited 
    by the permittee are adequate to support the request.
        3. When an individual NPDES permit is issued to a discharger 
    otherwise subject to this permit, or the discharger is authorized to 
    discharge under an alternative NPDES general permit, the applicability 
    of this permit to the individual NPDES permittee is automatically 
    terminated on the effective date of the individual permit or the date 
    of authorization of coverage under the alternative general permit, 
    whichever the case may be. When an individual NPDES permit is denied to 
    an owner or operator otherwise subject to this permit, or the owner or 
    operator is denied for coverage under an alternative NPDES general 
    permit, the applicability of this permit to the individual NPDES 
    permittee is automatically terminated on the date of such denial, 
    unless otherwise specified by the Director.
    O. State/Environmental Laws
        1. Nothing in this permit shall be construed to preclude the 
    institution of any legal action or relieve the permittee from any 
    responsibilities, liabilities, or penalties established pursuant to any 
    applicable State law or regulation under authority preserved by section 
    510 of the Act.
        2. No condition of this permit shall release the permittee from any 
    responsibility or requirements under other environmental statutes or 
    regulations.
    P. Proper Operation and Maintenance
        The permittee shall at all times properly operate and maintain all 
    facilities and systems of treatment and control (and related 
    appurtenances) which are installed or used by the permittee to achieve 
    compliance with the conditions of this permit and with the requirements 
    of storm water pollution prevention plans. Proper operation and 
    maintenance also includes adequate laboratory controls and appropriate 
    quality assurance procedures. Proper operation and maintenance requires 
    the operation of backup or auxiliary facilities or similar systems, 
    installed by a permittee only when necessary to achieve compliance with 
    the conditions of the permit.
    Q. Inspection and Entry
        The permittee shall allow the Director or an authorized 
    representative of EPA, the State, or, in the case of a construction 
    site which discharges through a municipal separate storm sewer, an 
    authorized representative of the municipal operator or the separate 
    storm sewer receiving the discharge, upon the presentation of 
    credentials and other documents as may be required by law, to:
        1. Enter upon the permittee's premises where a regulated facility 
    or activity is located or conducted or where records must be kept under 
    the conditions of this permit;
        2. Have access to and copy at reasonable times, any records that 
    must be kept under the conditions of this permit;
        3. Inspect at reasonable times any facilities or equipment 
    (including monitoring and control equipment); and
        4. Sample or monitor at reasonable times, for the purposes of 
    assuring permit compliance or as otherwise authorized by the CWA, any 
    substances or parameter at any location on the site.
    R. Permit Actions
        This permit may be modified, revoked and reissued, or terminated 
    for cause. The filing of a request by the permittee for a permit 
    modification, revocation and reissuance, or termination, or a 
    notification of planned changes or anticipated noncompliance does not 
    stay any permit condition.
    S. Planned Changes
        The permittee shall amend the pollution prevention plan as soon as 
    possible identifying any planned physical alterations or additions to 
    the permitted facility.
    T. Twenty-Four Hour Reporting
        (1) the permittee shall report any noncompliance which may endanger 
    health or the environment. Any information shall be provided orally 
    within 24 hours from the time the permittee becomes aware of the 
    circumstances. A written submission shall also be provided within 5 
    days of the time the permittee becomes aware of the circumstances. A 
    written submission shall also be provided within 5 days of the time the 
    permittee becomes aware of the circumstances. The written submission 
    shall contain a description of the noncompliance and its cause: the 
    period of noncompliance, including exact dates and times, and if the 
    noncompliance has not been corrected, the anticipated time it is 
    expected to continue; and steps taken or planned to reduce, eliminate, 
    and prevent reoccurrence of the noncompliance.
    U. Bypass
        (1) Definitions.
        (i) Bypass means the intentional diversion of waste streams from 
    any portion of a treatment facility.
        (ii) Severe property damage means substantial physical damage to 
    property which causes them to become inoperable or substantial and 
    permanent loss of natural resources which can reasonably be expected to 
    occur in the absence of a bypass. Severe property damage does not mean 
    economic loss caused by delays in production.
        (2) Bypass not exceeding limitations. The permittee may allow any 
    bypass to occur which does not cause effluent limitations to be 
    exceeded, but only if it also is for essential maintenance to assure 
    efficient operation. These bypasses are not subject to the provisions 
    of paragraphs S(3) and S(4).
        (3) Notice.
        (i) Anticipated bypass. If the permittee knows in advance of the 
    need for a bypass, it shall submit prior notice, if possible at least 
    ten days before the date of the bypass.
        (ii) Unanticipated bypass. The permittee shall submit notice of an 
    unanticipated bypass as required in paragraph R. of this section (24-
    hour notice).
        (4) Prohibition of bypass.
        (i) Bypass is prohibited, and the Director may take enforcement 
    action against a permittee for bypass, unless:
    
    [[Page 15669]]
    
        (A) Bypass was unavoidable to prevent loss of life, personal 
    injury, or severe property damage;
        (B) There were no feasible alternatives to the bypass, such as the 
    use of auxiliary treatment facilities, retention of untreated wastes, 
    or maintenance during normal periods of equipment downtime. This 
    condition is not satisfied if adequate back-up equipment should have 
    been installed in the exercise of reasonable engineering judgement to 
    prevent a bypass which occurred during normal periods of equipment 
    downtime or preventive maintenance; and
        (C) the permittee submitted notices as required under paragraph 
    S(3) of this section.
        (ii) The Director may approve an anticipated bypass after 
    considering its adverse effects, if the Director determines that it 
    will meet the three conditions listed above in paragraph S(4)(i) of 
    this section.
    
    Part VIII. Reopener Clause
    
        A. If there is evidence indicating potential or realized impacts on 
    water quality due to any storm water discharge associated with 
    industrial activity covered by this permit, the discharger may be 
    required to obtain individual permit or an alternative general permit 
    in accordance with Part I.C of this permit or the permit may be 
    modified to include different limitations and/or requirements.
        B. Permit modification or revocation will be conducted according to 
    40 CFR 122.62, 122.63, 122.64 and 124.5.
        C. This permit may be modified, or alternatively, revoked and 
    reissued, to comply with any applicable provisions of the Phase II 
    storm water regulations once they are issued.
    
    Part IX. Termination of Coverage
    
        A. Notice of Termination. Where a site has been finally stabilized 
    and all storm water discharges from construction sites that are 
    authorized by this permit are eliminated (see Part IX.A.5. for the 
    definition of eliminated), or where the operator of all storm water 
    discharges at a facility changes, the operator of the facility may 
    submit a Notice of Termination that is signed in accordance with Part 
    VII.G of this permit within 14 days of final stabilization of the site. 
    The Notice of Termination shall include the following information:
        1. The mailing address, and location of the construction site for 
    which the notification is submitted. Where a mailing address for the 
    site is not available, the location can be described in terms of the 
    latitude and longitude of the approximate center of the facility to the 
    nearest 15 seconds, or the section, township and range to the nearest 
    quarter section;
        2. The name, address, and telephone number of the operator seeking 
    termination of permit coverage;
        3. The NPDES permit number for the storm water discharge identified 
    by this Notice of Termination;
        4. An identification of whether the storm water discharges 
    associated with industrial activity have been eliminated or the 
    operator of the discharges has changed; and
        5. The following certification signed in accordance with Part VII.G 
    (signatory requirements) of this permit:
    
        I certify under penalty of law that all storm water discharges 
    associated with industrial activity from the identified facility 
    that are authorized by a NPDES general permit have otherwise been 
    eliminated or that I am no longer the operator of the facility or 
    construction site. I understand that by submitting this notice of 
    termination, that I am no longer authorized to discharge storm water 
    associated with industrial activity by the general permit, and that 
    discharging pollutants in storm water associated with industrial 
    activity to waters of the United States is unlawful under the Clean 
    Water Act where the discharge is not authorized by a NPDES permit. I 
    also understand that the submittal of this notice of termination 
    does not release an operator from liability for any violations of 
    this permit or the Clean Water Act.
    
        For the purposes of this certification, elimination of storm water 
    discharges associated with construction activity means that all 
    disturbed soils at the identified facility have been finally stabilized 
    and temporary erosion and sediment control measures have been removed 
    or will be removed at an appropriate time, or that all storm water 
    discharges associated with construction activities from the identified 
    site that are authorized by a NPDES general permit have otherwise been 
    eliminated.
        B. Where to Submit. Currently, applicants may use the NOT form 
    published in the September 29, 1995 Federal Register (60 FR 51265). The 
    final version of the NOT form proposed in the June 2, 1997 Federal 
    Register (62 FR 29785) shall be used when published in the Federal 
    Register. All Notices of Termination are to be sent, using the form 
    provided by the Director (or a photocopy thereof) \25\, to the 
    following address: Storm Water Notice of Termination (4203), 401 M 
    Street, SW, Washington, DC 20460.
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        \25\ A copy of the approved NOT form is provided in Appendix A 
    of this notice.
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        C. Additional Notification. A copy of the Notice of Termination 
    shall be sent to the State agency which issued the State storm water or 
    environmental resource permit for the site and, if the storm water 
    management system discharges to a municipal separate storm sewer system 
    within Broward, Dade, Duval, Escambia, Hillsborough, Lee, Leon, 
    Manatee, Orange, Palm Beach, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Sarasota or 
    Seminole Counties, to the owner of that system. Included within these 
    counties, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), incorporated 
    municipalities, and chapter 298 Special Districts also shall be 
    notified where they own or operate a municipal separate storm sewer 
    system receiving storm water discharges associated with construction 
    activity covered by this permit.
    
    Part X. Definitions
    
        Best Management Practices (BMPs) means schedules of activities, 
    prohibitions of practices, maintenance procedures, and other management 
    practices to prevent or reduce the pollution of waters of the United 
    States. BMPs also include treatment requirements, operating procedures, 
    and practices to control plant site runoff, spillage or leaks, sludge 
    or waste disposal, or drainage from raw material storage.
        Commencement of Construction--The initial disturbance of soils 
    associated with clearing, grading, or excavating activities or other 
    construction activities.
        CWA means Clean Water Act or the Federal Water Pollution Control 
    Act.
        Dedicated portable asphalt plant--A portable asphalt plant that is 
    located on or contiguous to a construction site and that provides 
    asphalt only to the construction site that the plant is located on or 
    adjacent to. The term dedicated portable asphalt plant does not include 
    facilities that are subject to the asphalt emulsion effluent limitation 
    guideline at 40 CFR Part 443.
        Dedicated portable concrete plant--A portable concrete plant that 
    is located on or contiguous to a construction site and that provides 
    concrete only to the construction site that the plant is located on or 
    adjacent to.
        Director means the Regional Administrator of the Environmental 
    Protection Agency or an authorized representative.
        Final Stabilization means that all soil disturbing activities at 
    the site have been completed, and that a uniform perennial vegetative 
    cover with a density of 70% of the cover for unpaved areas and areas 
    not covered by permanent structures has been established or equivalent 
    permanent
    
    [[Page 15670]]
    
    stabilization measures (such as the use of riprap, gabions, or 
    geotextiles) have been employed.
        Flow-weighted composite sample means a composite sample consisting 
    of a mixture of aliquots collected at a constant time interval, where 
    the volume of each aliquot is proportional to the flow rate of the 
    discharge.
        Large and Medium municipal separate storm sewer system means all 
    municipal separate storm sewers that are either: (i) Located in an 
    incorporated place (city) with a population of 100,000 or more as 
    determined by the latest Decennial Census by the Bureau of Census 
    (these cities are listed in Appendices F and G of 40 CFR Part 122); or 
    (ii) located in the counties with unincorporated urbanized populations 
    of 100,000 or more, except municipal separate storm sewers that are 
    located in the incorporated places, townships or towns within such 
    counties (these counties are listed in Appendices H and I of 40 CFR 
    Part 122); or (iii) owned or operated by a municipality other than 
    those described in paragraph (i) or (ii) and that are designated by the 
    Director as part of the large or medium municipal separate storm sewer 
    system.
        NOI means notice of intent to be covered by this permit (see Part 
    II of this permit).
        NOT means notice of termination (see Part IX of this permit).
        Operator means any party associated with the construction project 
    that meets either of the following 2 criteria: (1) The party has 
    operational control over project specifications (including the ability 
    to make modifications in specifications), or (2) the party has day-to-
    day operational control of those activities at a project site which are 
    necessary to ensure compliance with the storm water pollution 
    prevention plan or other permit conditions (e.g., they are authorized 
    to direct workers at the site to carry out activities identified in the 
    storm water pollution prevention plan or comply with other permit 
    conditions).
        Point Source means any discernible, confined, and discrete 
    conveyance, including but not limited to, any pipe, ditch, channel, 
    tunnel, conduit, well, discrete fissure, container, rolling stock, 
    concentrated animal feeding operation, landfill leachate collection 
    system, vessel or other floating craft from which pollutants are or may 
    be discharges. This term does not include return flows from irrigated 
    agriculture or agricultural storm water runoff.
        Runoff coefficient means the fraction of total rainfall that will 
    appear at the conveyance as runoff.
        Storm Water means storm water runoff, snow melt runoff, and surface 
    runoff and drainage.
        Storm Water Associated with Industrial Activity means the discharge 
    from any conveyance which is used for collecting and conveying storm 
    water and which is directly related to manufacturing, processing or raw 
    materials storage areas at an industrial plant. The term does not 
    include discharges from facilities or activities excluded from the 
    NPDES program. For the categories of industries identified in 
    paragraphs (i) through (x) of this definition, the term includes, but 
    is not limited to, storm water discharges from industrial plant yards; 
    immediate access roads and rail lines used or traveled by carriers of 
    raw materials, manufactured products, waste material, or by-products 
    used or created by the facility; material handling sites; refuse sites; 
    sites used for the application or disposal of process waste waters (as 
    defined at 40 CFR 401); sites used for the storage and maintenance of 
    material handling equipment; sites used for residual treatment, 
    storage, or disposal; shipping and receiving areas; manufacturing 
    buildings; storage areas (including tank farms) for raw materials, and 
    intermediate and finished products; and areas where industrial activity 
    has taken place in the past and significant materials remain and are 
    exposed to storm water. For the categories of industries identified in 
    paragraph (xi) of this definition, the term includes only storm water 
    discharges from all areas (except access roads and rail lines) listed 
    in the previous sentence where material handling equipment or 
    activities, raw materials, intermediate products, final products, waste 
    materials, by-products, or industrial machinery are exposed to storm 
    water. For the purposes of this paragraph, material handling activities 
    include the: storage, loading and unloading, transportation, or 
    conveyance of any raw material, intermediate product, finished product, 
    by-product or waste product. The term excludes areas located on plant 
    lands separate from the plant's industrial activities, such as office 
    buildings and accompanying parking lots as long as the drainage from 
    the excluded areas is not mixed with storm water drained from the above 
    described areas. Industrial facilities (including industrial facilities 
    that are Federally or municipally owned or operated that meet the 
    description of the facilities listed in this paragraph (i)-(xi) of this 
    definition) include those facilities designated under 122.26(a)(1)(v). 
    The following categories of facilities are considered to be engaging in 
    ``industrial activity'' for purposes of this subsection:
        (i) Facilities subject to storm water effluent limitations 
    guidelines, new source performance standards, or toxic pollutant 
    effluent standards under 40 CFR Subchapter N (except facilities with 
    toxic pollutant effluent standards which are exempted under category 
    (xi) of this definition);
        (ii) Facilities classified as Standard Industrial Classifications 
    24 (except 2434), 26 (except 265 and 267), 28 (except 283), 29, 311, 32 
    (except 323), 33, 3441, 373;
        (iii) Facilities classified as Standard Industrial Classifications 
    10 through 14 (mineral industry) including active or inactive mining 
    operations (except for areas of coal mining operations no longer 
    meeting the definition of a reclamation area under 40 CFR 434.11(l) 
    because the performance bond issued to the facility by the appropriate 
    SMCRA authority has been released, or except for areas of non-coal 
    mining operations which have been released from applicable State or 
    Federal reclamation requirements after December 17, 1990) and oil and 
    gas exploration, production, processing, or treatment operations, or 
    transmission facilities that discharge storm water contaminated by 
    contact with or that has come into contact with, any overburden, raw 
    material, intermediate products, finished products, byproducts or waste 
    products located on the site of such operations; inactive mining 
    operations are mining sites that are not being actively mined, but 
    which have an identifiable owner/operator;
        (iv) Hazardous waste treatment, storage, or disposal facilities, 
    including those that are operating under interim status or a permit 
    under Subtitle C of RCRA;
        (v) Landfills, land application sites, and open dumps that have 
    received any industrial wastes (waste that is received from any of the 
    facilities described under this subsection) including those that are 
    subject to regulation under Subtitle D of RCRA;
        (vi) Facilities involved in the recycling of materials, including 
    metal scrapyards, battery reclaimers, salvage yards, and automobile 
    junkyards, including but limited to those classified as Standard 
    Industrial Classification 5015 and 5093;
        (vii) Steam electric power generating facilities, including coal 
    handling sites;
        (viii) Transportation facilities classified as Standard Industrial 
    Classifications 40, 41, 42 (except 4221-25), 43, 44, 45, and 5171 which 
    have vehicle maintenance shops, equipment
    
    [[Page 15671]]
    
    cleaning operations, or airport deicing operations. Only those portions 
    of the facility that are either involved in vehicle maintenance 
    (including vehicle rehabilitation, mechanical repairs, painting, 
    fueling, and lubrication), equipment cleaning operations, airport 
    deicing operations, or which are otherwise identified under paragraphs 
    (i)-(vii) or (ix)-(xi) of this subsection are associated with 
    industrial activity;
        (ix) Treatment works treating domestic sewage or any other sewage 
    sludge or wastewater treatment device or system, used in the storage 
    treatment, recycling, and reclamation of municipal or domestic sewage, 
    including land dedicated to the disposal of sewage sludge that are 
    located within the confines of the facility, with a design flow of 1.0 
    mgd or more, or required to have an approved pretreatment program under 
    40 CFR 403. Not included are farm lands, domestic gardens or lands used 
    for sludge management where sludge is beneficially reused and which are 
    not physically located in the confines of the facility, or areas that 
    are in compliance with 40 CFR 503;
        (x) Construction activity including clearing, grading and 
    excavation activities except: operations that result in the disturbance 
    of less than five acres of total land area which are not part of a 
    larger common plan of development or sale;
        (xi) Facilities under Standard Industrial Classifications 20, 21, 
    22, 23, 2434, 25, 265, 267, 27, 283, 285, 30, 31 (except 311), 323, 34 
    (except 3441), 35, 36, 37 (except 373), 38, 39, 4221-25, (and which are 
    not otherwise included within categories (i)-(x)).\26\
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        \26\ On June 4, 1992, the United States Court of Appeals for the 
    Ninth Circuit remanded the exclusion for manufacturing facilities in 
    category (xi) which do not have materials or activities exposed to 
    storm water to the EPA for further rulemaking. (Nos. 90-70671 and 
    91-70200).
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
        Waters of the United States means:
        (a) All waters which are currently used, were used in the past, or 
    may be susceptible to use in interstate or foreign commerce, including 
    all waters which are subject to the ebb and flow of the tide;
        (b) All interstate waters, including interstate ``wetlands'';
        (c) All other waters such as interstate lakes, rivers, streams 
    (including intermittent streams), mudflats, sandflats, wetlands, 
    sloughs, prairie potholes, wet meadows, playa lakes, or natural ponds 
    the use, degradation, or destruction of which would affect or could 
    affect interstate or foreign commerce including any such waters:
        (1) Which are or could be used by interstate or foreign travelers 
    for recreational or other purposes;
        (2) From which fish or shellfish are or could be taken and sold in 
    interstate or foreign commerce; or
        (3) Which are used or could be used for industrial purposes by 
    industries in interstate commerce;
        (d) All impoundments of waters otherwise defined as waters of the 
    United States under this definition;
        (e) Tributaries of waters identified in paragraphs (a) through (d) 
    of this definition;
        (f) The territorial sea; and
        (g) Wetlands adjacent to waters (other than waters that are 
    themselves wetlands) identified in paragraphs (a) through (f) of this 
    definition.
        Waste treatment systems, including treatment ponds or lagoons 
    designed to meet the requirements of CWA are not waters of the United 
    States.
    
    [FR Doc. 98-8060 Filed 3-30-98; 8:45 am]
    BILLING CODE 6560-50-P
    
    
    

Document Information

Effective Date:
4/3/1998
Published:
03/31/1998
Department:
Environmental Protection Agency
Entry Type:
Notice
Action:
Notice of final NPDES general permit reissuance for storm water discharges from construction activities.
Document Number:
98-8060
Dates:
This general permit shall be effective on April 3, 1998. Deadlines for submittal of NOIs are provided in Part II.A. of today's permit.
Pages:
15622-15671 (50 pages)
Docket Numbers:
FRL-5987-2
PDF File:
98-8060.pdf