What is the preferred permittee according to EPA guidelines?

In the context of stormwater regulations under EPA guidelines, the preferred permittee is typically recognized as the general contractor. This designation is grounded in the responsibility for managing construction activities and ensuring compliance with the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) requirements.

The general contractor oversees all phases of the construction process and is positioned to implement and enforce stormwater management practices effectively. They are responsible for ensuring that erosion and sediment control measures are established and maintained throughout the project. This includes coordinating with subcontractors, managing the site, and adhering to environmental regulations, which reflects the overarching responsibility they hold for compliance and site management.

Choosing the general contractor as the preferred permittee simplifies the chain of responsibility, as they are in a unique position to manage and implement necessary controls across various tasks and trades involved in a construction project. This role reinforces the importance of having a single point of accountability, which can lead to more effective compliance and pollution prevention strategies on construction sites.