MEState-AdministeredSWPPP Requirements in Maine
Maine administers its own CGP through ME DEP. The 1-acre threshold triggers NOI and SWPPP requirements. The Site Location of Development Act adds a parallel state permitting layer for larger projects. Atlantic salmon habitat protections in certain river systems require coordination with federal agencies before construction begins.
Maine SWPPP Key Facts
- ✓1-acre threshold triggers CGP; SLODA applies at 20+ acres
- ✓Atlantic salmon habitat in designated watersheds triggers ESA Section 7 consultation
- ✓PE signature required on SWPPP for projects over 5 acres
- ✓$0 NOI fee
- ✓Shoreland Zoning Act overlaps with stormwater rules near water bodies
Administering Agency
- Agency
- Maine Department of Environmental Protection (ME DEP)
- Phone
- 207-287-7688
- dep.stormwater@maine.gov
- Website
- ME DEP Stormwater Program
Permit Details
- Permit Name
- Maine Construction General Permit (CGP)
- Effective Date
- 2019-01-01
- Permit Document
- View Current Permit
SWPPP Thresholds & Triggers
- Acreage Threshold
- 1 acre of land disturbance
Site Location of Development Act (SLODA) applies to projects disturbing 20+ acres or in Shoreland Zones; Atlantic salmon critical habitat areas require additional consultation with US Fish & Wildlife Service and NOAA.
Inspection Requirements
- Inspection Frequency
- At least once every 7 days and within 24 hours after a storm event exceeding 0.5 inches
- Rain Event Threshold
- 0.5 inches in 24 hours
- Certified Inspector
- Required by state
- Accepted Certifications
- CPESC, CESSWI, ME DEP-recognized Erosion and Sedimentation Control (ESC) Trainer
SWPPP must be signed by a Maine-licensed Professional Engineer for sites over 5 acres.
Penalties & Enforcement
- Max Civil Penalty (Per Day)
- $10,000 per day per violation
- Criminal Penalties
- Up to $25,000/day for knowing or willful violations
ME DEP may issue immediate compliance orders; chronic violators can face permit suspension.
Permit Fees
- NOI Filing Fee
- $0
- Other Fees
- SLODA application fees apply separately for 20+ acre projects
How Maine Differs from Federal Requirements
- ⚠Maine administers its own CGP rather than using EPA's federal permit.
- ⚠SLODA provides a state-level site review for large projects with no direct federal equivalent.
- ⚠Atlantic salmon ESA protections require federal Section 7 consultation in designated watersheds — stricter than standard federal CGP.
SWPPP Tips for Maine
- ➤Check the Maine Atlantic Salmon Critical Habitat map before project scoping — federal ESA consultation adds significant lead time.
- ➤SLODA and CGP have different review timelines; submit both applications in parallel to avoid delays.
- ➤In Shoreland Zones, vegetated buffers must be maintained; coordinate with ME DEP early.
Maine SWPPP FAQs
Does Maine require a PE to stamp the SWPPP?+
Yes, for projects disturbing more than 5 acres, the SWPPP must be prepared or reviewed and signed by a Maine-licensed Professional Engineer.
What rivers in Maine have Atlantic salmon habitat protections?+
The Penobscot, Kennebec, Androscoggin, and several Downeast rivers have designated critical habitat. Check NOAA and USFWS habitat maps before project planning.
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