In an effort to improve the plan review process for stormwater management (SWM) and erosion and sediment control (ESC), the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has proposed a streamlined review procedure for plans that have been reviewed and approved by persons with an active Dual Combined Administrator certification for ESC and SWM. The plans still must be sealed by a Professional Engineer licensed to practice in Virginia.
DEQ laid out a schedule for situations in which DEQ is the Virginia Stormwater Management Program (VSMP) authority or the Virginia Erosion and Sediment Control Program (VESCP) authority, and additional conditions are met (click here for the list). Plans submitted with complete packages, completed in accordance with Virginia Administrative Code requirements, and reviewed and signed by the appropriate professionals are eligible for a faster process that includes a 15 day completeness review and 60 day window for evaluation. Because the scenarios vary, we strongly recommend you read the guidance in full and coordinate with Wetland Studies and Solutions, Inc. staff who can help you walk your project through. We have a number of Dual Combined Administrators currently conducting plan reviews.
DEQ’s guidance was published in The Virginia Register on August 1, 2022; the public comment period ends August 31. It will go into effect on September 1. To comment, visit Virginia Regulatory Town Hall.