Water

Stormwater Runoff Management

Stormwater runoff is rainwater or melted snow and ice that flows over land into streams, rivers, and lakes. When stormwater passes through polluted areas, it can pick up contaminants and carry them into waterways. Because of its potential to cause water pollution, stormwater runoff is regulated under the Clean Water Act. It can be managed through pollution prevention plans and best management practices. Depending on your type of business, you may need to apply for permit coverage for stormwater runoff. For more information about stormwater management, see the sections below.

DEC and Environmental Council of States (ECOS):

The Department of Environment and Conservation, Office of Environmental Assistance has conducted a small communities Train the Trainer Storm Water management project. The project intent was to help apply storm water management activities of small communities. The Department of Environment and Conservation looks forward to a productive partnership with Tennessee’s small communities and local governments in our efforts to ensure a clean and safe environment for our citizens. Below are links to the materials developed for this project.

Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasure (SPCC) Rule

The purpose of the Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC) rule is to help facilities prevent a discharge of oil into navigable waters or adjoining shorelines. This rule is part of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) oil spill prevention program. A facility that stores, processes, refines, uses or consumes oil and is non-transportation-related is potentially subject to the SPCC rule. If the facility is subject to the rule, it must create and maintain an SPCC Plan.

As this rule and plans are regulated by the EPA, this link to the EPA SPCC webpage will provide relevant and up-to-date information.

Contact the Small Business Environmental Assistance Program for help

Hotline: 800-734-3619

Email: BGSBEAP@tn.gov