What distinguishes the Virginia construction general permit from the post-construction stormwater permit?

• A. The construction general permit governs discharges from active earth-disturbing activities and requires SWPPP and BMPs; the post-construction permit governs permanent controls to manage stormwater after construction is complete.
• B. The post-construction permit governs discharges from active earth-disturbing activities.
• C. There is no difference between the permits.
• D. The construction general permit applies to non-urban areas.

Answer: (A)

The difference lies in timing and purpose. The construction general permit addresses discharges during active earth-disturbing work and requires a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) and the use of best management practices (BMPs) to control sediment and runoff while construction is underway. Once construction is finished, the post-construction stormwater permit governs how stormwater is managed permanently, focusing on long-term controls that remain in place after the site is stabilized and on maintaining those controls.

So, the construction permit is about preventing pollution during construction, while the post-construction permit is about ensuring ongoing, permanent stormwater management after completion.