What factors affect the cost of an NPDES stormwater permit or SWPPP?

Stormwater pricing is driven by factors like overall site size, number of outfalls, exposed materials, drainage complexity, current SWPPP condition, number of facilities, travel requirements, project timeline, and how customized the documentation needs to be. Simple sites with minimal exposure are typically faster and more affordable, while complex facilities require more detailed work.

Is it cheaper if I already have a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP)?

Often, yes. If you already have a solid SWPPP and good records, we can usually build off that foundation, which keeps costs down. Older or incomplete plans may still require significant updates, but starting with something is almost always less expensive than starting from scratch.

Do you offer discounted pricing for multiple facilities?

Yes. Multi-site stormwater projects are one of the best ways to save money. When we handle several facilities at once, we can standardize templates, reuse mapping workflows, combine travel, and lower the per-site cost.

Are travel costs included in stormwater permit pricing?

Travel costs are only included when on-site visits are required. Many stormwater projects can be completed remotely using GIS data, photos, and video walkthroughs. When travel is necessary for larger or more complex sites, we’re upfront about those costs.

Is hiring a stormwater consultant really worth the cost?

For most facilities, yes. The cost of missing a deadline, misunderstanding permit requirements, or failing an inspection can far exceed the cost of hiring an experienced consultant. That said, if your site is very small with minimal exposure, we’ll tell you honestly if you may not need us.

NPDES & Stormwater Pricing | Calculator, Estimates, & Factors

What’s Included With Your NPDES or Stormwater Project?

Stormwater compliance is all about building a defensible, easy-to-follow program that protects your business and keeps inspectors off your back. Here’s exactly what’s included when you work with RMA:

✓ A full site evaluation (in-person or remote) to identify drainage patterns, outfalls, and potential pollutant sources. We assess your site conditions accurately so your plan meets permit requirements and reflects how your facility really operates.

✓ A customized Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) written for your operations, not a boilerplate template. Each plan aligns with federal and state regulations, covering BMPs, maintenance schedules, spill response, and inspection procedures your team can actually follow. Whether you call it an NPDES permit, or something similar, or need an SWPPP or something similar, it's very likely we can address your needs.

✓ Detailed drainage and outfall maps created using high-resolution imagery and based of real inspections and site details. These maps clearly show drainage flow, discharge points, and BMP locations so inspectors and operators are always on the same page.

✓ NOI or No Exposure Certification filing - we handle all the online submittals, documentation uploads, and permit registration through your state or EPA portal. You’ll get confirmation that your permit has been accepted and is in good standing.

✓ Sampling and monitoring guidance with simple, step-by-step instructions for when and how to collect stormwater samples, interpret results, and stay compliant with benchmark limits.

✓ Staff training access - your team gets access to our online stormwater training portal for up to five employees per facility. It’s practical, short, and focused on what you actually need to know to stay compliant and avoid violations.

✓ A digital and/or hardcopy SWPPP binder organized with clear tabs, forms, and inspection checklists so everything’s ready to go for your next inspection.

✓ Ongoing support for annual reports, sampling reviews, plan updates, and permit renewals... because compliance doesn’t stop once your permit is approved.

With RMA, you’re working with environmental professionals who’ve handled NPDES & stormwater programs for hundreds of facilities across the country. We understand the rules, the paperwork, and the real-world challenges of keeping your operation compliant through every storm season.

Common FAQs About NPDES Service Costs

Our pricing reflects the fact that your plan and permit aren’t being handled by interns or junior staff, they’re managed by professionals who understand the real-world risks tied to NPDES compliance. Each project requires regulatory review, mapping, documentation, and training tailored to your state and permit type. We don’t outsource or use templates. We build it right the first time so you don’t risk fines or rework later.

Some costs fall outside of your initial project, like lab fees for water sampling, equipment upgrades for BMPs, or annual training renewals. These aren’t RMA fees, they’re permit-driven requirements. If your state requires quarterly sampling or benchmark monitoring, we’ll walk you through exactly what to expect and how to minimize recurring costs.

As a ballpark, plan for 10–30% of your initial setup cost annually for maintenance, training, and updates to stay compliant. There are no surprise fees or markups from us. Everything is transparent up front.

Only if your site requires significant travel or multiple outfalls that each need their own assessment. We price each project fairly based on time and scope, not location. In some cases, we can do part of the assessment remotely to keep costs down.

Absolutely. Many clients bundle stormwater permitting with related environmental services like SPCC Plans, Tier II Reporting, or Environmental Audits. This cuts total cost and ensures all your compliance programs work together smoothly. For multi-site clients, we also offer discounts when we handle multiple locations at once, meaning the larger the project, the lower the per-facility cost.

Usually, yes. If your SWPPP is fairly current and your site hasn’t changed much, a simple update or renewal might cost just a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. But if your old plan is outdated, incomplete, or missing key requirements, it’s often faster (and cheaper long-term) to rebuild it properly. Either way, we’ll review what you have and give you an honest recommendation.

We’re flexible. Larger projects can be billed in halves or quarters depending on scope and timing. Smaller, one-off projects are typically paid in full. We understand budgeting challenges and will work with you to find a payment structure that makes sense.

In more than three decades, we’ve never had a client ask for a refund, because we do what we say and we stand by our work. If something feels off or needs tweaking, we fix it. Simple as that. Check our reviews, they speak for themselves!

We’re usually right in the middle. Some consultants charge less by skipping site visits or using templates. Others charge more for layers of bureaucracy. We’re straightforward, experienced, and priced fairly for the quality we deliver. You’ll get clear documentation, honest communication, and a plan that stands up to inspection without paying premium prices for things that don’t matter.

Let’s Talk NPDES & Stormwater Pricing. You Want to Know, Right?

Wonder why NPDES & stormwater permit projects cost what they do? We get this question all the time, and you deserve an honest, detailed answer. Below, we break down the main factors that drive price, real-world examples of what projects typically cost, and smart ways to save money while staying fully compliant.

Some of the Factors We Use to Price Stormwater Work

Overall Project Scope & Complexity

The more outfalls, exposed materials, or drainage areas a facility has, the more time it takes to design a compliant and defensible...

Let’s Talk NPDES & Stormwater Pricing. You Want to Know, Right?

Some of the Factors We Use to Price Stormwater Work

Overall Project Scope & Complexity

The more outfalls, exposed materials, or drainage areas a facility has, the more time it takes to design a compliant and defensible program. If your site involves tricky flow paths, multiple operations areas, or complex sector-specific activities, it’s going to require more documentation, mapping, and customization. Smaller facilities with simple layouts and minimal exposure? Those are usually quick and affordable.

Current Status of Your Stormwater Plan

If you already have a SWPPP, SWP3, or whatever your state calls your documentation, and solid records, we can often use that as a foundation, which keeps costs lower. If you’re starting from scratch, or if your old plan is missing maps, BMPs, or inspection procedures, or light on details, we’ll need more time upfront to get it right.

Number of Locations

If you operate multiple facilities, costs rise because each site needs its own permit coverage and SWPPP. That said, we offer major efficiencies for multi-site projects. When we handle several at once, we can standardize documents, reuse shared materials, and pass the savings along to you.

Travel Considerations

We travel all over the U.S. for stormwater work. Travel costs are only added when needed (typically for projects requiring airfare, overnight stays, and anything beyond a routine car ride to a from the facility). If you’re within driving distance or we can do part of the work remotely (using photos and through video walkthroughs), we can sometimes avoid travel entirely to keep prices down.

Timeline and Scheduling

Need your stormwater permit done fast to respond to an inspector or a violation letter? We can make it happen. But if we have to prioritize your project or work overtime to meet a hard deadline, that urgency does affect cost. If you’ve got flexibility, we can schedule your project at a lower rate.

Level of Customization

Some clients want a straightforward SWPPP and annual training. Others need fully tailored documentation that matches their internal systems, includes BMP audits, and integrates corrective action tracking. The more customization you need, the more time we’ll invest, but we’ll always discuss your options up front.

How Can You Save on Stormwater Permit Pricing?

Bundle Services

Many companies overpay by hiring multiple firms for similar services. Bundling stormwater permitting with other environmental needs (like SPCC Plans, Tier II Reporting, or Environmental Auditing) can significantly reduce overall costs. It simplifies your compliance program by keeping everything consistent across departments and facilities by going with a single provider.

Commit to Annual Reviews

Stormwater permits require annual reviews, updates, and training. Scheduling these in advance prevents last-minute panic (and the rush fees that often come with it). Regular updates also keep your SWPPP current, saving you money by avoiding complete rewrites later.

Buy in Bulk

If you manage multiple facilities (especially ones with similar layouts or operations) having us handle them all at once lowers the per-site price. We can combine travel, reuse mapping workflows, and apply the same training and documentation across your sites to create a consistent, scalable program.

What Are Some Example Stormwater Project Costs?

First-Time SWPPP – Small Facility

This applies to single-site operations like contractors, vehicle maintenance shops, or small manufacturing facilities that have never had a SWPPP before. We’ll assess your site, identify outfalls, build your SWPPP, and file your NOI or No Exposure Certification.
Typical Range: $2,500 – $6,000
This assumes a simple layout with limited outdoor storage and simple to no sampling requirements.

SWPPP Update – Mid-Sized Facility

If you already have a SWPPP that’s a few years old, but your operations or site layout have changed, this is you. We’ll update your plan, refresh your maps, ensure your BMPs still meet permit requirements, and verify that your records are audit-ready.
Typical Range: $3,000 – $8,000
Most mid-size facilities land here, especially those that need updated documentation but don’t require a full rewrite.

New Permit – Medium Sized to Large, or Complex Facilities

This applies to multi-acre sites with multiple outfalls, on-site processing, or complex drainage networks. These projects usually involve on-site visits, detailed mapping and sampling programs, and close coordination with your state permitting authority.
Typical Range: $6,000 – $10,000+
Includes everything from detailed SWPPP preparation to full NOI submittal and implementation support.

Multi-Site Stormwater Program

For companies managing multiple facilities under the same permit type, we can bundle all your stormwater needs into a single, streamlined project. You’ll get consistency across locations and major cost savings compared to tackling each site individually.
Typical Range: $2,500 – $8,000 per facility
Pricing varies by site size, distance, and permit type, but bundling always saves money.

How Does RMA Stack Up Against the Competition?

Our pricing generally falls in the mid-range of the market. We’re not the cheapest, and we’re not the most expensive... but we are the most transparent! Some firms cut corners by templating every plan or skipping site visits. Others pad invoices with unnecessary extras. Some rely on interns and junior staff to do site work and collect information. We don’t do any of that.

When you work with RMA, you’re paying for seasoned professionals who know NPDES inside and out, communicate clearly, and actually deliver what regulators expect to see. You’ll get a plan that’s practical, inspection-ready, and written for the real world, not a binder full of legal jargon that sits on a shelf.

Experienced professionals. You’ll work directly with consultants who understand your industry, your state’s regulations, and the details that can make or break compliance. We don't rely on interns or junior staff, because from experience, most of our clients don't want that.
Defensible, usable plans. Our documentation is easy to understand, built for operators, and designed to hold up during real inspections.
Clear pricing, simple agreements. No hidden fees, no nickel-and-diming, just straightforward pricing for real work.
Integrated services. We handle SPCC, Tier II, TRI, hazardous waste, and full environmental programs under one roof. If you want everything aligned, we can do that too.

Is It Really Worth Hiring a Consultant?

It depends, and we’ll tell you if it’s not. If your facility is very small, has minimal exposure, and plenty of time to learn the rules, you might be able to handle your own No Exposure Certification or general permit renewal. And if that’s the case, we’ll happily tell you so.

But for most facilities, hiring an experienced consultant pays for itself many times over. The cost of missing a filing deadline, misunderstanding a benchmark limit, or failing an inspection can be far greater than just getting it done right the first time. Plus, your time is better spent running your operation, not reading through 80 pages of permit text and hoping you got it right!

If you’re unsure, we’ll take a quick look at your site and give you an honest answer, even if the answer is, “You don’t need us.”

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Trusted by Companies Nationwide to Get Stormwater Right.

We’ve helped hundreds of businesses stay compliant, pass inspections, and sleep easier knowing their stormwater program is built right. Scroll below to see how other companies have partnered with RMA to simplify compliance and protect their operations.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

I have known RMA (and Doug Ruhlin) for over 12 years, working closely with him at NRMCA. He has always been a great spokesman and friend of our industry. Through the association, he works tirelessly to provide excellent programs and tools for our industry. His desire to see our industry move forward and grow has been an integral part of driving the Operations, Environment & Safety Committee within NRMCA. Recently we contracted with RMA on a time-sensitive project, they were able to meet our needs with quality service. Their knowledge of our industry and quick feel for our company made for a very smooth project. RMA understands the challenges our industry faces and helps provide effective solutions. I highly recommend RMA and we will definitely use them as future needs arise.

Tom Foley

Vulcan Materials
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Resource Management Associates is a key influence to our environmental program. We operate several ready-mix concrete plants in 3 states, which all have unique regulations to deal with. They've assisted in everything from seeking approvals from local townships, preparing SWPPPs, environmental training for employees, and establishing environmental best practices at our concrete plants. RMA has done an excellent job of maintaining compliance with new environmental laws and regulations. By working with RMA we have been proactive and are one step ahead of any visits from environmental agencies.

Bill Petrillo

Heritage Concrete
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Thank you for the continuing support and dedication given to Newark Asphalt Corp. over the last twenty years. Your consulting services have proven to be invaluable. Your knowledge and skillful approach in working with the NJDEP is truly an asset to our company. Our SWPPP has always been complete, concise, and user friendly. You have provided a plan that is formatted for all to navigate through with ease, and one that does not have unnecessary nomenclature. Newark Asphalt Corp. will continue our successful relationship with Resource Management Associates into the future based on Mr. Ruhlin's professionalism, vast knowledge, and devotion.

Joseph Biggica

Newark Asphalt Corp.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

I first met Doug of RMA in 2002 when I attended an environmental course he developed for the National Ready Mixed Concrete Association. Doug’s ability to effectively communicate and explain the voluminous environmental regulations pertaining to the concrete industry is remarkable. He is truly a gifted speaker and teacher. If you are new to the industry or the environmental field, I strongly recommend participating in Doug’s courses. Since then, we’ve worked together on several projects including an NPDES permitting, and most recently, further development of the Green-Star EMS Program at NRMCA. Doug’s passion, experience, and insight are always welcomed assets on any environmental project.

Ryan Sewell

US Concrete
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Simply put, as a consultant to the ready mixed concrete industry, Doug Ruhlin and the staff of RMA are one of the foremost authorities in terms of environmental regulations, permits, and responsibilities.

Gary Mullings

National Ready Mixed Concrete Association
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Doug of RMA has prospered as an environmental consulting firm by seamlessly combining his experience as an educator with his expertise as a respected environmental professional to analyze and communicate complex technical issues to both company management as well as the general public. This unique talent has helped cement Doug's reputation as THE environmental voice for the construction materials industry.

John Hayden

Society for Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

I have known Doug Ruhlin of RMA for nearly 20 years. RMA has been a leader in the environmental arena for all of that time. They're intimately versed in the key environmental issues that affect aggregates and concrete producers; they know the laws, regulations and both industries thoroughly. RMA has helped steer the formulation of new regulations and they have helped to direct industry's response to the current and new regulations - in multiple states. I would not acquire an existing operation or start a greenfield plant or quarry without consulting Doug.

Tarek Khan

BASF
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

I have known RMA for many years and I greatly respect their knowledge. They've served on concrete industry committees in leadership roles and have helped develop and professionalize the concrete industry's body of knowledge with regard to environmental management and compliance. The Tennessee Concrete Association hired Doug Ruhlin of RMA to help with a revision to our NPDES Stormwater Management Plan when our statewide permit was last revised. Doug (and RMA's) work was excellent and I am happy to recommend them to others.

Alan Sparkman

Tenessee Concrete Association
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

I've worked regularly with RMA since 2018. The team is outstanding and every interaction has been positive. They have a legacy of industry expertise already built and they're constantly exploring new ways to help clients.

Travis Keener

Hydration Engineering, PLLC
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

County Concrete has quarry and redi-mix concrete operations. We have used RMA for over 20-years and and RMA has consistently provided us with sound advice on a wide range of NJDEP matters, and streamlined and simplified our stormwater management reporting.

Kurt Peters

County Concrete Corp.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Very knowledgeable. Answers are questions and gives easy to understand information. Quick response.

Susan Allen

Shore Sand and Gravel
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

RMA has provided consistent and reliable support for all environmental matters brought to them. They can be both to the point or really dig into the issue depending on what is needed. Highly respected!

Bryan Wigginton

CalPortland
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Have been doing business with Doug and his team for approx 5 years now and have found they are always quick to respond and very knowledgeable in their field. Great company!

Frank McIntyre

L&L Paving Co
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

RMA has been incredibly responsive and understanding throughout our relationship. We have had several changes and they have always calmly handled our environmental needs. Their team has done an awesome job explaining the requirements and training multiple levels of our organization on our responsibilities and requirements. In short, Doug, Chris, Amy and team have been awesome professionals who've provided a valuable service and always had our backs.

Dave Busch

Arrow Material Services
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

After an extensive search, our firm hired RMA to educate our team on industry environmental best practices. Doug and his team were very thorough in their presentation and supporting documentation, and gave us a real world expectation of what we should be mindful of regarding reclaiming, slurry water, pH levels, permitting and other topics. I would highly recommend RMA to any company interested in understanding the important elements of environmental compliance, sustainability and those interested in positioning themselves as leaders in environmental stewardship.

Owen Blevins

Mid-Atlantic Concrete Equipment
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

I've had the privilege to work with RMA on multiple occasions. I cannot recommend them enough. In the complex, ever-changing world of environmental management - they help make it digestible. Everyone there is incredibly approachable and has a wealth of knowledge. Once you work with them, you won't want to work with anyone else.

Jacob Canale

Silvi Materials
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Tremendous help RMA was with permit transfers for a newly acquired company. Chris, Amy, always there to answer any questions that I had throughout the process. Appreciate the help they give keeping us to stay in compliance with training during the year.

Chris Young

Tanis Concrete
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

RMA has been great to work with the last several years. They are always available to answer any questions we may have and all our needs are met with a quick response.

James Holston Jr

Vulcan Materials Company
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Resource Management was very flexible with scheduling and worked a Phase 1 assessment at one of our locations providing great insight and recommendations.

Dino Faiola

Pennsy Supply
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

RMA was the best they are so helpful, and very responsive to my calls and emails. I give them a 5 STAR!

Dina Tammaro

Empire Transit Mix Inc.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

We have been using RMA for several years. They always go above and beyond our expectations.

Phillip Hudson

Cumberland Supply
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Could not ask for better support! RMA should be your choice as well!

Bryan Wigginton

CalPortland
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Wonderful staff. Provides detailed explanations in a manner that is easy to understand. Quick to respond.

Susan Allen

Shore Sand and Gravel
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

A great consulting company.

Patrick Buster

Braen Stone Company
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

RMA will provide the support you need. If they do not know it already, guaranteed they will do the research. Highly recommended!

Bryan Wigginton

CalPortland
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Doug and his firm consistently offer the highest quality of environmental services in the ready mixed concrete industry.

Frank Cavaliere

National Ready Mixed Concrete Association