Who is responsible for enforcing the Construction GP?

The responsibility for enforcing the Construction General Permit (GP) lies primarily with the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). The DEQ is a state agency tasked with the protection of Virginia's environmental resources, which includes overseeing compliance with various regulations, including stormwater management.

The Construction GP is a regulatory framework designed to control the discharge of pollutants during construction activities and ensure proper stormwater management practices are implemented. This involves monitoring, compliance checks, and taking enforcement actions when necessary. The DEQ uses its authority to ensure that permit holders adhere to the conditions set forth in the permit, which helps protect water quality in the state.

While localities may play a role in implementing certain regulations and overseeing local compliance, and contractors and property owners must follow the guidelines set by the permit, the ultimate enforcement capability and authority lies with the DEQ. This establishes a clear line of accountability for compliance with state environmental laws.