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Stormwater

Stormwater runoff from construction sites carries sediment and other pollutants which have the potential to impair streams, lakes and wetlands, if not managed properly. As stormwater flows over a construction site, pollutants like sediment, debris, and chemicals can make their way to natural waterbodies.

Our stormwater group serves as a resource for our partners in project design, construction operations, and maintenance by providing the following services:

  • Reviewing plans to ensure that proper best management practices (BMPs) are included and permit applications are completed;
  • Serving as a resource during active construction for proper BMP implementation and maintenance;
  • Researching new and innovative technologies, and maintaining a BMP catalog;
  • Implementing ODOT commitments with other federal and state regulatory partners;
  • Providing applicable training and education.

Contractor Resources

Apply for a Stormwater Permit

Stormwater permits are issued by the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). A stormwater permit is required for any site that disturbs one acre or more of land.

Already have a Stormwater permit?

Once the stormwater permit has been issued, the erosion controls outlined in the Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) must be installed and maintained correctly.

For more information about SWPPPs and maintaining the job site:

Best Management Practices (BMP) Catalog

ODOT uses best management practices to manage and minimize the pollutants that may be included in construction stormwater runoff.

Terminating your permit?

Once construction has been completed and the site has been stabilized, you must terminate your permit with ODEQ before the project can be finalized through ODOT.

If you are not sure if your project will pass inspection, submit an inspection request. The same inspection is performed but your permit remains in effect regardless of the inspection results.

What Can Citizens Like You Do To Help

ODOT’s goal is to detect and eliminate illegal discharges. An illegal discharge, often called an illicit discharge, is a discharge to ODOT's storm drain system that could lead to pollution on Oklahoma’s lakes, streams and rivers. Common pollutants include oil and grease, fertilizers and pesticides, grass clippings and leaves, and any substances that have a "funny" smell or color.