Sample Municipal BMPs for SWMP Plans

Here is a sample list of municipal Best Management Practices (BMPs) that a municipality can include in its Stormwater Management Program (SWMP) Plan, organized by the six required Minimum Control Measures (MCMs):

MCM 1: Public Education and Outreach

• Distribute educational brochures to residents and businesses

• Post stormwater pollution prevention tips on municipal website and social media

• Conduct stormwater presentations at local schools or community events

• Display informational posters in public buildings (libraries, town halls)

• Partner with local watershed groups for joint outreach campaigns

MCM 2: Public Participation and Involvement

• Organize annual river or stream cleanup events

• Host public meetings on stormwater issues and SWMP updates

• Create a citizen storm drain marking program ("No Dumping - Drains to Waterways")

• Facilitate volunteer stormwater monitoring programs

• Develop a public comment process for reviewing the SWMP Plan

MCM 3: Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination (IDDE)

• Develop and maintain an up-to-date storm sewer system map

• Implement a program to detect and investigate illicit discharges

• Conduct dry weather outfall inspections annually

• Establish a hotline or online reporting system for suspected illicit discharges

• Provide training to municipal staff on IDDE detection and response

MCM 4: Construction Site Runoff Control

• Require erosion and sediment control plans for construction sites ≥ 1 acre

• Conduct regular inspections of active construction sites

• Provide pre-construction meetings to educate contractors about stormwater requirements

• Enforce penalties for non-compliance with erosion and sediment control regulations

• Maintain a publicly accessible construction project list with contact information

MCM 5: Post-Construction Stormwater Management

• Implement ordinances requiring post-construction stormwater controls for new development

• Require Low Impact Development (LID) practices where feasible (rain gardens, permeable pavement)

• Develop a maintenance plan for municipal stormwater facilities

• Conduct periodic inspections of private post-construction BMPs

• Promote green infrastructure through demonstration projects

MCM 6: Pollution Prevention / Good Housekeeping for Municipal Operations

• Develop and implement a municipal facility pollution prevention plan

• Conduct staff training on good housekeeping practices (street sweeping, equipment washing)

• Regularly clean catch basins and storm drains

• Implement a salt management plan to reduce road salt usage

• Cover and properly contain sand and salt storage

• Inspect and maintain municipally-owned stormwater facilities (detention basins, infiltration areas)

• Implement spill prevention and response procedures for municipal garages

Notes:

• Municipalities should tailor this list based on local conditions, resources, and permit requirements.

• Each BMP should include measurable goals, such as target completion dates or specific outreach numbers.

• The BMP list should be revisited annually and updated as the program evolves.