NPDES Phase II Regulations
The Federal Clean Water Act of 1972 focused initially on discharges from sources such as industrial and municipal wastewater treatment plants. Water quality studies have shown that more diffuse sources of pollution are also a problem. In 1987, Congress added requirements for non-agricultural sources of runoff, beginning with the largest cities and certain industries.
State Rules
Cary is covered under the second phase of the program, which is called the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) program. The Town's pollution reduction program must address:
Public education and outreach - The objectives of the program are to distribute educational materials to the community, conduct public outreach activities, raise public awareness on the causes and impacts of stormwater pollution and inform the public on steps they can take to reduce or prevent stormwater pollution.
- The Block Leader Program
- The Stormdrain Stencil program
- The Clean Water Education Partnership and Stevens Nature Center
- Information for homeowners and developers
- Reduce, recycle and reuse
- Dispose of household hazardous waste properly
Fact sheets for businesses - These fact sheets are for bussinesses to use to help in the prevention of stormwater pollution.
- Carpet Cleaning Fact Sheet
- Commercial Property Fact Sheet
- Food Service Fact Sheet
- Landscaping Fact Sheet
- Multi-Family Complexes Fact Sheet
- Paint Fact Sheet
- Vehicle Repair Fact Sheet
Illicit discharge detection - The objectives of the program are to detect and eliminate illicit discharges that include spills and illegal dumping, address significant contributors of pollutants, implement appropriate enforcement procedures and actions, develop a storm sewer system map and inform employees, businesses, and the general public of hazards associated with illegal discharges and improper disposal of waste.
- The Illicit Discharge Ordinance located in section 7.3.6
To report an illegal discharge call 469- 4038 or 469-4012.
Construction site runoff during and after work - The objectives of the program are to reduce pollutants in stormwater runoff from construction activities, provide procedures for public input, ensure compliance, requirements for construction site operators to implement erosion and sediment control practices, review site plans and procedures for site inspection and enforcement of control measures.
Good Housekeeping - The objectives of the program are to prevent or reduce stormwater pollution from municipal operations.
The Town of Cary is auditing all public facilities and programs to ensure pollutant loading is minimized to the maximum extent practicable and conducts annual inspections on the facilities to ensure continued compliance.
State Rules
Algal blooms and fish kills in the lower Neuse River during 1988 led to state rules for controlling nutrients in the Neuse basin. The rules cover agriculture, urban development, and wastewater treatment plants. Cary's wastewater treatment plants have been upgraded to meet the 1997 rules, which also provide for preserving vegetation along stream buffers to filter storm water. New rules have been enacted by the State of NC for nutrient reduction in the Jordan Lake watershed.
Neuse River Rules
Jordan Lake Rules
Sedimentation and Erosion Control (7.4)
An erosion control plan and grading permit will be required for areas of disturbance over 12,000 square feet.
Cary is one of 15 local governments that worked with the state to implement a model storm water plan for the Neuse River Basin.
View the Watershed Protection Best Management Protection (BMP) Design Manual.
