RIState-AdministeredSWPPP Requirements in Rhode Island
Rhode Island administers its own RIPDES program through RI DEM. The Construction General Permit requires a $400 NOI fee and SWPPP developed by a qualified professional. Narragansett Bay watershed protections apply broadly across the state. Coastal projects require a Coastal Resources Management Council (CRMC) assent separately, and wetland impacts require RI DEM Freshwater Wetlands Act permits.
Rhode Island SWPPP Key Facts
- ✓$400 NOI fee — one of the higher fees in the Northeast
- ✓Narragansett Bay watershed protections apply to most of RI
- ✓CRMC assent required separately for coastal construction
- ✓RI DEM Freshwater Wetlands Act permit for wetland impacts
- ✓RIPDES permit number RIG000000 (general permit class)
Administering Agency
- Agency
- Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RI DEM)
- Phone
- 401-222-4700
- dem.stormwater@dem.ri.gov
- Website
- RI DEM Stormwater Program
Permit Details
- Permit Name
- Rhode Island Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (RIPDES) Construction General Permit
- Permit Number
- RIG000000
- Effective Date
- 2025-09-26
- Expiration Date
- 2026-09-26
- Permit Document
- View Current Permit
SWPPP Thresholds & Triggers
- Acreage Threshold
- 1 acre or more; less than 1 acre if part of a larger common plan of development
Narragansett Bay watershed encompasses most of RI; enhanced nutrient and sediment protections apply. RI Freshwater Wetlands Act permit required separately for wetland impacts.
Inspection Requirements
- Inspection Frequency
- At least every 7 days and within 24 hours of a 0.5-inch or greater storm event
- Rain Event Threshold
- 0.5 inches within 24 hours
- Certified Inspector
- Not required by state
SWPPP must be developed by a qualified professional and maintained on-site. RI DEM conducts active compliance inspections, particularly for projects near Narragansett Bay tributaries.
Penalties & Enforcement
- Max Civil Penalty (Per Day)
- $10,000 per day per violation; up to $25,000/day for significant violations
- Criminal Penalties
- Up to $25,000/day and imprisonment for knowing violations
RI DEM actively patrols construction sites near Narragansett Bay; permit revocation possible for repeat violations.
Permit Fees
- NOI Filing Fee
- $400
- Other Fees
- RI Freshwater Wetlands Act application fee varies; Coastal Resources Management Council (CRMC) assent required for coastal projects
How Rhode Island Differs from Federal Requirements
- ⚠RI has its own NPDES program; EPA CGP does not apply
- ⚠$400 NOI fee versus $0 under EPA CGP
- ⚠CRMC coastal assent requirement is RI-specific
- ⚠Narragansett Bay-specific protections exceed federal CGP minimums
SWPPP Tips for Rhode Island
- ➤Budget for $400 NOI fee and CRMC assent fees if project is coastal
- ➤Include Narragansett Bay-specific BMPs such as silt fence on slopes and sediment traps near outfalls
- ➤Contact RI DEM early for projects in the Narragansett Bay watershed to clarify any enhanced conditions
Rhode Island SWPPP FAQs
Do I need a CRMC assent in addition to RIPDES coverage?+
Yes, if your project is in or adjacent to the coastal zone. CRMC and RIPDES are separate programs. CRMC assent must typically be obtained before construction begins in the coastal zone.
Is there a post-construction stormwater requirement in RI?+
Yes. RI DEM's Stormwater Design and Installation Standards Manual governs post-construction stormwater management and must be addressed in the SWPPP for sites with long-term stormwater impacts.
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