By definition an MS4 is a system of conveyances that include, but are not limited to, catch basins, curbs, gutters, ditches, man-made channels, pipes, tunnels, and/or storm drains that discharge into Waters of the State. For these conveyances or system of conveyances to be recognized as an MS4, a state, city, town, village, or other public entity must own them. These conveyances must also not be part of a Publicly Owned Treatment Works and may not operate as a combined sewer.

The control of sedimentation from construction sites is accomplished through the utilization of a variety of erosion and sediment control Best Management Practices (BMPs). Essentially, any device, practice, or procedure that has demonstrated to effectively control either the quality and/or quantity of stormwater runoff while maintaining compatibility with the planned land used are classified as BMPs.

The Phase I stormwater regulations created 11 categories of Stormwater Discharges Associated with Industrial Activity. Facilities in these categories must have an NPDES permit for their stormwater discharges. Categories i through ix and category xi are commonly called the Stormwater NPDES Industrial Program. Category x and the new Phase II requirements for Small Construction Sites together are called the Stormwater NPDES Construction Program.

All owners of agricultural animal facilities are required to attend Clemson University's Manure Manager's Training Program. The Department provided input to Clemson University on the development of the program. Operators of all new and expanding swine facilities and large animal facilities are required to be certified by Clemson as manure managers. Operators of existing small swine facilities and small animal facilities do not have to be certified but they must attend the training.

Domestic Operations

Domestic operations include municipal and private utilities. Section 300.G.1 of Regulation 61-67 addresses these type of pump and haul operations.

1. Is a construction permit required prior to the replacement of existing parts of a currently permitted wastewater treatment system?

R.61-67 includes five exclusions (i.e. construction activities that are not required to have a construction application/letter of approval). The replacement of wastewater treatment components with the same or similar component does not require a construction permit if there is NO change in capacity.

Need a Wastewater Construction Speaker?

SCDES staff members are available to give talks and presentations on the different aspects of the Wastewater Construction Permit Program. Please send an email to one of the following contacts if you are interested in arranging a presentation for a group or class.,

Wastewater Construction - Forms

Application for Permit to Construct (PDF-335KB)