
JMU implemented an erosion and sediment control (ESC) program in 2009, and starting July 1, 2014 JMU also began administrating a stormwater management (SWM) program. The University continues to manage both an ESC and SWM program, ensuring that these programs are in compliance with the most recent updates and changes to applicable laws and regulations. Effective July 1, 2024 the DEQ consolidated regulations and combined the E&SC program with the SWM program, now called the Virginia Erosion and Stormwater Management Program or VESMP. With this consolidation, came a new handbook that encompasses both programs.
On July 1, 2024, The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) released the Virginia Stormwater Management Handbook, Version 1.0, replacing previous editions, including the Virginia Erosion and Sediment Control Handbook (1992) and Virginia’s Stormwater Management Handbook (1999).
The purpose of the VSMH is to provide guidance on erosion and stormwater control measures necessary to comply with the following laws and regulations:
- Virginia Erosion and Stormwater Management Act, §§ 62.1-44.15:24 through 62.1-44.15:50 of the Code of Virginia;
- Erosion and Sediment Control Law for Localities Not Administering a Virginia Erosion and Stormwater Management Program, §§ 62.1-44.15:51 through 62.1-44.15:66 of the Code of Virginia;
- Virginia Erosion and Stormwater Management Regulation, 9VAC25-875-10 et seq;
- Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act, §§ 62.1-44.15:67 through 62.1-44.15:79 of the Code of Virginia; and
- Other associated state or federal regulations impacting erosion and sediment control and stormwater management.
JMU's VESMP requires site plan review for projects meeting the criteria as described in the above laws and regulations and summarized in the below sections.
Land Disturbance on Campus
Projects disturbing 10,000 square feet or more, or part of a common plan of development will require an E&SC plan, narrative, and supporting documentation for review and approval.
Projects disturbing an acre or more, or part of a larger common plan of development will require coverage under the Construction General Permit (CGP), an E&SC and SWM plan, narrative, and supporting documentation for review and approvals.
Shape of the land disturbance does not matter, so whether it is a land disturbance of 100' by 100', a utility project that is 10' wide and a length of 1,000', or any other configuration of 10,000 square feet or more, an approved plan will be required.
SWM Plans are also required if the land disturbing activity proposes use of credits from a regional stormwater management facility or voluntary installation of a stormwater best management practice (BMP).
When a project involves constructing linear utilities (e.g., waterlines, sewer lines, electric lines, etc.) DEQ may waive the requirement, for the preparation and implementation of a stormwater management plan in accordance with DEQ guidance. Please contact the Stormwater Coordinator if the project is considering a Linear Utility Waiver for submittal requirements.
Please contact the Stormwater Coordinator at (540) 568-3174 with questions on JMU’s E&SC/SWM Plan submission or permitting process. Land disturbance may not begin without an approved E&SC and SWM Plan and prequsities listed in JMU's Land Disturbing Policy and approved Standards and Specfiications. Please refer to these linked documents below.
For those submitting an E&SC or SWM Plan for a proposed project on campus, a copy of the most up to date Plan Preparer/Reviewer Checklist may be obtained by contacting the Stormwater Coordinator.
JMU Standards and Specifications (S&S)
DEQ Approved JMU Standards & Specifications for ESC & SWM
S&S Approval Letter from DEQ dated April 1, 2025
S&S entities will have their S&S administratively reviewed every five years or if a significant update is needed by the DEQ. JMU's S&S was reviewed and approved by the DEQ on April 1, 2025.
JMU Stormwater Related Policies
Within JMU’s Facilities Management (FM) Policies, there are three policies (IV 10, IV 11, IV 12) written to address stormwater management and pollution prevention. They can be viewed at the FM Policies and Guidelines page or via the links below.
IV 10 Stormwater Management Facilities
IV 11 Land Disturbing Activities
IV 12 Daily Operational Procedures for Stormwater Control Best Management Practices
There is one university wide policy that applies to the entire campus community - Policy 4310 Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination (IDDE) and is accessed via the main JMU Policies page or as linked below.
Policy 4310 Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination (IDDE)
Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) Guidance
The SWPPP is the cornerstone of the Construction General Permit and the Virginia Stormwater Management Program. The plan includes prevention measures for both during construction and after construction. All SWPPP's must contain the following:
- Approved erosion and sediment control plan
- Approved stormwater management plan
- Pollution prevention plan
- Plan specifying any additional control measures to meet the requirements of a TMDL
Additional information on developing a SWPPP can be found at the following locations:
Following is a SWPPP template provided by JMU.
JMU Construction SWPPP Template
For any questions related to SWPPPs, site plan development, E&S and SWM plans and review, or stormwater related policies, please contact the stormwater team at stormwater@jmu.edu.Construction General Permit Coverage
When submitting for permit coverage, be sure to submit the following documents which can be found on DEQ's web site.
- Registration Statement
- Permit Fee Form and Fee Schedule
- Standards and Specifications (S&S) Entity Information Form