Certified Storm Water Operator Practice Exam

What factor is considered when determining if a site needs a stormwater permit?

1. Soil type

2. Project type

3. Area disturbed

4. Time of year

The correct answer is: Area disturbed

When determining if a site needs a stormwater permit, the area disturbed is a crucial factor because it directly correlates with the potential for runoff and sedimentation during construction activities. A larger area of disturbance usually indicates a higher likelihood of environmental impacts due to increased erosion, sediment transport, and changes in hydrology. Regulatory agencies often establish thresholds for the extent of disturbance that triggers the requirement for a stormwater permit to ensure proper management practices are implemented to protect water quality. Other factors such as soil type, project type, and time of year may influence the overall impact of the site disturbance or may be considerations in the permit process, but the area disturbed serves as a primary criterion for the permit determination. This is because it quantitatively assesses the scale of potential environmental impact, guiding necessary regulatory oversight.