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2 min readSWPPP Inspection Frequency: When Do You Actually Need to Inspect?
RunOffTrack
Publisher
Jan 14, 2025
Published
The Confusion of "Routine" vs. "Event-Based"
One of the most common questions we get is: "How often do I really need to send someone out there?" The answer depends entirely on your specific Construction General Permit (CGP), but there are general rules of thumb.
Standard Frequencies
Most permits offer two main tracks:
- The 7-Day Rule: Inspect every 7 calendar days, regardless of weather.
- The 14-Day + Rain Rule: Inspect every 14 calendar days, PLUS within 24 hours of a rain event producing 0.25 inches or more.
Which is better?
- High-Rainfall Areas (e.g., Florida, Pacific NW): The 7-Day Rule is often safer. If you choose the rain event track, you might end up inspecting 3 times a week during the wet season.
- Arid Areas (e.g., Arizona, West Texas): The 14-Day Rule saves significant labor costs.
Tracking Rain Events
The biggest compliance gap we see is missing the "post-storm" inspection window.
Pro Tip: You cannot rely on the weather app on your phone. You need site-specific data.
RunOffTrack automates this by geofencing your project and logging daily precipitation totals from NOAA. We alert you when a threshold is crossed.
Audit-Proof Your Inspections
Stop relying on paper. Use our free tools or upgrade to full automation.
State Specifics
- Texas (TCEQ): Strict 0.5-inch trigger.
- California (SWRCB): Requires "Pre-Storm", "During Storm", and "Post-Storm" inspections for Risk Level 2 & 3 sites.
- Georgia (EPD): Requires daily rainfall logging even if no inspection occurs.
Check our State Directory for your specific local requirements.
#Regulations
#TCEQ
#CGP
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