NEW MARYLAND STORMWATER MANAGEMENT REGULATIONS TAKE EFFECT MAY 4, 2010

The Maryland Department Of Environment (MDE) recently implemented new stormwater management regulations that will require "Environmental Site Design to the Maximum Extent Practicable" to control runoff (quickly becoming known as ESD to the MEP).  These regulations were based on the Stormwater Management Act of 2007 and must be enforced by Maryland reviewing jurisdictions by May 4, 2010.  The new regulations are intended to better protect natural resources such as the Chesapeake Bay from the effects of urban runoff.

State regulations say that, unless final approval for erosion and sediment control and stormwater management plans for a project is granted by May 4, 2010, the project will be required to comply with the new ordinance.  The MDE has determined that some types of projects which include projects already partially through the development approval process (at minimum preliminary approval), redevelopment projects, and Smart Growth projects, may be able to meet stormwater management requirements without strict ESD to the MEP.  Emergency regulations took effect on April 7, 2010 to allow for administrative waivers of projects that have been granted preliminary approval and flexibility for projects in the other two categories.

The changes to the stormwater law will have a large impact on how stormwater management is designed the most Maryland jurisdictions.  Meeting the new law generally entails the use of a number of smaller stormwater management practices throughout the site (as opposed to the standard large stormwater management pond).  This requirement is an attempt to have developed sites more closely emulate natural recharge and runoff conditions when site build out is complete.

Projects in Carroll County, however, have been subject to environmental site design considerations in recent years.  Developers and Engineers in Carroll will, thus, not see a dramatic change in requirements.  In some circumstances, the new law will require slightly more volume in facilities designed in Carroll County.  Please contact Kristin Barmoy at kbarmoy@hlsinc.net with any questions about how the new stormwater management law might affect your project.  

FEATURED EMPLOYEE;  Reg Baugher

Reg, a licensed surveyor in Pennsylvania, has worked with Hanover Land Services, Inc. or its predecessor, Worley Surveying since he was in high school.  With over 36 years of surveying experience, he may have more local experience than any other surveyor practicing in Hanover.  As Chief of Surveys, Reg has responsibility for all Pennsylvania surveying projects completed by our firm.  Reg was recently asked to list the Top mistakes land owners and developers make when selecting a surveyor to complete their project. 

1. Not picking a firm that is familiar with the Municipality  This is especially important when working in Pennsylvania where each Township or Borough has its own set of regulations. where the property lies and its regulations.
2. Not finding a Surveyor who offers a variety of services in order to most efficiently meet the client's needs.
3. Not comparing "apples to apples" when comparing the scope of work between two or more proposals.  One item left out of a scope of work can mean thousands of dollars for the client in extra charges
4. Signing a contract solely because it is the lowest price.  The property owner can pay much more in the end if the firm chosen is not qualified to complete the work.
5. Not asking for the time frame for completion.  This is especially important for developers who may be paying interest monthly.
6. Not discussing your expectations with the surveyor.  Don't assume he/she knows exactly what you want or need.