Controlling erosion can significantly reduce the amount of sedimentation and other pollutants transported by runoff from construction sites. To keep our valuable water resources clean the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) issues a General Permit no. 2 for projects that disturb one or more acres. Site owners and their contractors must meet several requirements with the goal of preventing stormwater pollution during and after construction.  

 Apply for a General Permit 2 (link to Iowa DNR Website)

Construction projects that disturb one or more acres or less than one acre of soil if activity is part of a “larger common plan of development” greater than one acre are required to obtain a General Permit No. 2 through the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. General Permit no. 2 requires that a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) be submitted to the Environmental Services Division for approval. 

Required Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) Documentation

• Description of the project
• Contact information for project owner, contractor, and SWPPP manager
• Certification Sheet signed by the owner, contractor, and any subcontractors
• Site map showing where erosion control is to be implemented
• Summary of stabilization practices
• Copy of inspection sheet to be used for erosion control inspections completed every 7 calendar days
• Permit Authorization issued by the Iowa DNR for General Permit No. 2
• Copy of General Permit No. 2

The permit holder is responsible for compliance with permit requirements. The City’s MS4 Permit requires City staff to conduct inspections on all sites having an NPDES General Permit No. 2. Below you will find several resources including example SWPPPs, General Permit 2, and inspection form for projects with an active General Permit 2.