Who must approve a SWM Plan prior to land disturbance?

The approval of a Storm Water Management (SWM) Plan is a critical step that ensures compliance with state regulations and local ordinances regarding water quality and quantity control in land development projects. The VSMP (Virginia Stormwater Management Program) Program Authority is specifically designated to review and approve these plans.

This authority has the expertise and regulatory framework established to evaluate SWM Plans effectively. Its role includes ensuring that the proposed management practices align with the standards set forth in the Virginia Stormwater Management Act, which seeks to minimize the impact of land disturbances on water quality. By requiring that the SWM Plan be approved by the VSMP Program Authority, the state ensures that the necessary technical assessments and approvals are conducted, thus safeguarding environmental interests.

In contrast, while the local community may be involved in some aspects of the review process, the ultimate responsibility and authority lie with the VSMP Program Authority when it comes to approving the plan. Similarly, the state government generally oversees the broader application of these regulations but does not directly approve individual SWM Plans. The property owner is responsible for preparing the plan but does not have the authority to approve it; their role is more focused on compliance and implementation of the approved plan.