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PENNSYLVANIA INDUSTRIAL STORMWATER PERMITTING

Pennsylvania NPDES & Stormwater Permitting Help 

If your facility needs industrial stormwater permit coverage in Pennsylvania, there’s a good chance you’re dealing with the PAG-03 General Permit. RMA helps facilities across Pennsylvania determine whether PAG-03 applies, prepare permit applications and PPC Plans, and stay on top of ongoing compliance requirements.

We can also help facilities that need an individual NPDES permit or may qualify for a No Exposure Certification. Use the resources on this page to understand your requirements, get pricing, or reach out for help with your facility.

Get Your Pennsylvania NPDES Questions Answered
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Your Complete Guide to NPDES  Permitting in Pennsylvania

If you’re trying to figure out Pennsylvania stormwater requirements, you’re in the right place. We’ve pulled together the key information, costs, resources, and next steps all on one page.

Click any link below to jump directly to that section.

Understanding Your Pennsylvania Stormwater Options

Pricing Calculator: Get Your PA Stormwater Permit Cost

Our Process: How We Help with Pennsylvania Stormwater

The Pennsylvania NPDES & Stormwater Permit Resources Library

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions on NPDES & Stormwater in PA

Related Environmental Services for Pennsylvania Facilities

Get Help with Your Pennsylvania Stormwater Requirements

stormwater-permit-cost

Your Complete Guide to NPDES  Permitting in Pennsylvania

If you’re trying to figure out Pennsylvania stormwater requirements, you’re in the right place. We’ve pulled together the key information, costs, resources, and next steps all on one page.

Click any link below to jump directly to that section.

Understanding Your Pennsylvania Stormwater Options

Pricing Calculator: Get Your PA Stormwater Permit Cost

Our Process: How We Help with Pennsylvania Stormwater

The Pennsylvania NPDES & Stormwater Permit Resources Library

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions on NPDES & Stormwater in PA

Related Environmental Services for Pennsylvania Facilities

Get Help with Your Pennsylvania Stormwater Requirements

 

Understanding Your Pennsylvania Stormwater Options

PAG-03 General Permits

Individual NPDES Permits

No Exposure Certifications

The Short Version: PAG-03 is Pennsylvania’s general NPDES permit for stormwater associated with industrial activity, and it is the route many industrial facilities use to obtain stormwater permit coverage.

If your facility conducts industrial activities that are exposed to rain or snowmelt, you may need NPDES permit coverage for the stormwater leaving your site. For facilities that are eligible, Pennsylvania’s PAG-03 General Permit provides a standardized way to obtain that coverage.

Getting covered under PAG-03 involves more than simply filling out a short form. Facilities generally need to evaluate where stormwater flows, identify industrial activities and potential pollutant sources, document outfalls and drainage areas, prepare a PPC plan, and submit a Notice of Intent to Pennsylvania DEP. The permit also establishes facility-specific monitoring and reporting requirements based in part on the industrial activities covered by the applicable permit appendix.

Once coverage is approved, the work continues. Facilities may have requirements involving inspections, Best Management Practices, stormwater sampling, electronic Discharge Monitoring Reports, employee training, recordkeeping, and maintaining the plans and documentation required by the permit. PAG-03 permittees are among the facilities required to use Pennsylvania DEP’s eDMR system.

RMA helps with the entire process, from figuring out whether PAG-03 applies and preparing the initial application through PPC Plan development, drainage and outfall evaluation, ongoing compliance, sampling guidance, reporting, permit changes, and renewals.

The Short Version: If your facility needs industrial stormwater permit coverage but is not eligible for PAG-03, an individual NPDES permit may be required.

An individual permit is developed specifically for your facility rather than relying on the standardized conditions of the PAG-03 General Permit. Pennsylvania DEP identifies facilities that are not eligible for PAG-03 coverage as candidates for an individual industrial stormwater permit.

One common reason a facility may need an individual permit is a discharge to High Quality or Exceptional Value waters. Those facilities are not eligible for PAG-03 coverage. Other site-specific circumstances may also make an individual permit the appropriate path.

Because the permit is facility-specific, the application process can require a more detailed evaluation of your operations, discharges, drainage, pollutants, and receiving waters. Pennsylvania DEP generally issues individual permit coverage for five-year terms, and facilities that intend to continue discharging must submit renewal applications in advance of expiration.

RMA can help determine whether an individual permit is necessary, prepare the application and supporting documentation, communicate with DEP during the review process, and help manage the compliance requirements that follow once the permit is issued.

The Short Version: Some facilities can avoid industrial stormwater permit coverage if all qualifying industrial materials and activities are protected from exposure to rain and snow.

Pennsylvania allows qualifying facilities to request a No Exposure Certification instead of obtaining PAG-03 permit coverage. In general, industrial materials and activities must be stored or conducted indoors or beneath appropriate shelter so they are not exposed to stormwater.

No Exposure does not simply mean that your site looks clean or that you do not normally see contaminated runoff. Your facility must actually meet Pennsylvania’s eligibility criteria, and the certification must be submitted to and approved by DEP. No Exposure is also not available for facilities discharging to High Quality or Exceptional Value waters.

Pennsylvania requires No Exposure Certification to be renewed every five years. And if operations change so that industrial materials or activities become exposed, the facility may need to obtain permit coverage instead.

RMA can review your facility and help determine whether No Exposure appears to be a realistic option, identify potential exposure issues, and prepare the certification paperwork when your facility qualifies.

 

How Much Does Pennsylvania Stormwater Permit Coverage Cost?

For PAG-03 coverage, PADEP charges a $500 application fee and a $500 annual fee. But the real cost usually comes from preparing everything the permit requires, like the site evaluation, mapping, PPC Plan, and application package.

For a relatively straightforward facility, professional help with the full application is typically around $5,000 to $10,000. Ongoing compliance support may run another $3,000 to $6,000 per year, depending on your site and how much help you need. If your facility requires an Individual NPDES Permit, we can help with that too, though the process is typically more involved and can cost considerably more.

Want a more specific number? Use the free calculator just below for an instant estimate. No email, no sales call, no obligation.

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How Much Does Pennsylvania Stormwater Permit Coverage Cost?

For PAG-03 coverage, PADEP charges a $500 application fee and a $500 annual fee. But the real cost usually comes from preparing everything the permit requires, like the site evaluation, mapping, PPC Plan, and application package.

For a relatively straightforward facility, professional help with the full application is typically around $5,000 to $10,000. Ongoing compliance support may run another $3,000 to $6,000 per year, depending on your site and how much help you need. If your facility requires an Individual NPDES Permit, we can help with that too, though the process is typically more involved and can cost considerably more.

Want a more specific number? Use the free calculator just below for an instant estimate. No email, no sales call, no obligation.

NPDES Permitting Pricing Calculator

 

Our Process for Pennsylvania Stormwater Support

How We Help With Pennsylvania Stormwater

Whether you already know you need a PAG-03 permit or you're still trying to figure out what applies, we can help. We start by determining the right path for your facility, then help with the site work, plans, application, PA DEP review, and ongoing compliance that come after it.

Determine What You Need

We start by evaluating your facility, operations, and stormwater exposure to determine whether you need PAG-03 coverage, an Individual NPDES Permit, or qualify for a No Exposure Certification.

Evaluate Your Facility

If you need a permit, we'll walk your facility, identify potential pollutant sources, evaluate how stormwater moves across the property, and identify drainage areas and outfalls.

Prepare Your PPC Plan & Maps

We'll turn what we find into the required site maps and a detailed PPC Plan built specifically around your facility, operations, materials, drainage, and stormwater controls.

Complete Your Application

We'll coordinate required stormwater sampling, prepare your NOI and supporting documentation, and assemble everything into a complete application package for PA DEP.

Work Through PA DEP Review

We'll stay involved after submission, helping answer PA DEP questions, provide additional information, and make any necessary revisions as your application moves through review.

Stay Compliant Long-Term

Once you're covered, we can continue helping with sampling, inspections, employee training, eDMR reporting, annual reports, PPC Plan updates, corrective actions, and other ongoing requirements.

 

Additional Pennsylvania NPDES Information

EVERYTHING You Need to Know About NPDES Stormwater Permits

Learn about NPDES Stormwater Permits, timelines, costs, and compliance essentials for businesses to manage environmental responsibilities effectively.

How much does an NPDES permit cost in 2026? (Quick Calculator Included!)
What is a SWPPP? Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans Explained!
What Is Stormwater Associated with Industrial Activity?
Which NPDES Permit Do You Need? General, Individual, and No-Exposure Explained!
Why You NEED to Take YOUR OWN Stormwater Samples!
Common NPDES Permit Problems (and How We Fix Them!)
Contact Our Team

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More Pennsylvania NPDES & Stormwater Permitting Resources

Looking for more information? Start with our Pennsylvania-specific NPDES and PAG-03 resources below, or browse our general stormwater guides on permitting, plans, sampling, reporting, training, and ongoing compliance.

Pennsylvania NPDES & PAG-03 Resources

If your facility is located in Pennsylvania, start here. These resources cover PAG-03 permitting, Individual NPDES Permits, No Exposure Certifications, PPC Plans, sampling, reporting, PA DEP inspections, and ongoing compliance.

NPDES & Stormwater Basics

Stormwater Plans & BMPs

Stormwater Sampling & Lab Testing

Stormwater pH Testing

Stormwater Monitoring, Reporting & Corrective Action

Stormwater Training

Additional NPDES & Stormwater Topics

 

Common Pennsylvania NPDES & Stormwater Questions

 

OTHER ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES IN PENNSYLVANIA

Related Environmental Services for Pennsylvania Facilities

 Trusted by Pennsylvania Facilities for Stormwater Compliance Done Right 

 We can tell you we know Pennsylvania stormwater permitting, but it means more coming from the facilities we’ve worked with. Here’s what some of our clients have to say about working with RMA on permitting, compliance, and environmental support. 

  • ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    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

  • ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    I’ve known Doug of RMA for over 4 years and have seen him tirelessly and passionately promote best management practices to the industries and good stewardship of the environment while exhibiting a refreshingly honest and compassionate concern for the business. It does not take long for one to see and feel Doug’s enthusiasm and commitment when talking to him or hearing him educate a group on the subject of environmental compliance. He manages to do this while helping the end user accomplish this sometimes incompressible task economically. Having hired RMA to assist with decoding the mass of sometimes confusing and contradicting US EPA and state DEP regulations, I can say with confidence that they know our industry very well. I heartily recommend RMA and Doug Ruhlin for anyone needing professional and ethical council with environmental compliance.

    Owen Blevins

    Mid-Atlantic Concrete Equipment

  • ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    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 Ruhlin has significantly helped bring sustainability to the concrete industry.  The first work we did together was on the NPCA Sustainability Committee.  His impact was immediate and positive.  Doug brings a holistic view of sustainability.  I would ask Doug to explain a concept to the committee and he would arrive prepared and armed with a PowerPoint presentation.  He is great communicator and possesses a wealth of knowledge on sustainability and environmental affairs.  I hope to continue working with Doug for many years as we continue our good work with the committee.

    Claude Goguen

    National Precast Concrete Association

  • ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    I have known RMA for fifteen years and found them to be extremely professional, with a special insight for identifying issues others might overlook.  Their keen eye and excellent communication skills set them apart from other environmental consultants. We are always relieved when we learn that RMA has been involved in a client’s environmental assessments and compliance programs.

    Pierre Villere

    Allen Villere Partners

  • ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    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 come to know RMA through our affiliation with the New Jersey Concrete and Aggregate Association. I continue to be impressed with their knowledge and professionalism. Perhaps more importantly, their passion for our industry and the work that he does is unparalleled. I do not hesitate recommending him for your environmental needs.

    Ken Yuhas

    Grace Construction Products

  • ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    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

  • ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    If you're looking for an environmental professional who really knows and understands the concrete industry, Doug Ruhlin is THE guy. The fact that he is a great teacher and communicator is just a bonus.

    Greg Vickers

    Monumental Concrete

  • ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    I had the honor of being able to hear Doug speak on a number of occasions at various seminars and conferences. His ability to captivate an audience is remarkable. His vast knowledge of the ready mix concrete industry, laws, regulations and environmental awareness is something I would one day hope to achieve being a consultant myself. If you ever have the chance to speak to Mr. Ruhlin please do, you will not regret it.

    Dylan Drudul

    City of Rockville, MD Public Works

  • ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    I have been working with Doug over the last year. His help to support the Concrete Industry Management (CIM) Program and students is phenomenal. His expertise in the field of Environmental/sustainability is phenomenal. His training ability is exceptional. My students were attached to him from day 1. I would like to thank him greatlye for what he did and has been doing to our program.

    Mohamed Mahgoub

    New Jersey Institute of Technology - Concrete Industry Management Dept

  • ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    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

  • ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    Dennis and the RMA team are super helpful, responsive and organized. I would not have been able to put an SPCC plan together as a small business owner without RMA. They've been amazing. Highly recommend.

    Nate Gunderson

    Filta Environmental Kitchen Solutions

  • ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    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

  • ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    We had the pleasure of working with RMA for our environmental consulting needs, and we are thoroughly impressed with their expertise and professionalism. From the initial consultation to the final permit issuance, their team was knowledgeable, thorough, and responsive. Doug, Tate & their team took the time to understand our specific challenges and provided clear, actionable advice that helped us navigate environmental regulations for our recycling facility with the DEP and EPA officials. Their attention to detail and commitment to delivering high-quality work exceeded our expectations. They even helped us by looping in other specialized professionals to complete various required testing/ tasks for our permit application. If you're looking for an environmental consulting firm that is reliable, knowledgeable, and results-driven, I highly recommend RMA. They are true professionals who go above and beyond to support their clients.

    Steph Smith

    Peach Country

  • ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    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

  • ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    Over the last 25 years I found Doug and his RMA team to always provide a very professional approach to solving problems. Their knowledge of the concrete and aggregate industry has continuously helped us at Concrete Plants Inc. to handle those difficult environmental questions.

    Emil Garlewicz

    Concrete Plants Inc.

  • ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    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

  • ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    Doug and his team are top notch. Decades of experience really pays dividends. I have had the opportunity to work with RMA on multiple projects over the years and they were professional from start to finish. You are in good hands with RMA.

    David Sulock

    Curren Environmental

  • ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    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

  • ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    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 and the professionals that run the company took a chance on me starting about 7 years ago and we've worked steadily together every since. As a subcontractor, I appreciate how effortlessly my invoices get processed. Everyone could use a Doug Ruhlin, the RMA founder, in their life. He may not always tell people what they want to hear, but he uses his vast experience to help the next generation of professionals build on his legacy and move forward with confidence.

    Travis Keener, PE

    Hydration Engineering, PLLC

  • ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    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

 

Get Help With Your Pennsylvania Stormwater Requirements

Whether you need help with a PAG-03 permit, PPC Plan, sampling requirements, ongoing compliance, an individual NPDES permit, or determining whether No Exposure applies, RMA can help you figure out the right next step. Tell us what is happening at your Pennsylvania facility, and our team can help you understand what you need and where to go from here.

Send Your Questions Here!

Whether you need help with a single requirement or want to hand off your entire environmental program, we get it done right, the first time. You'll feel protected, confident in your company's regulatory standing, and ready for whatever comes next.

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