Stormwater

Rain and snowmelt (stormwater) on buildings, streets, parking lots, and other impervious surfaces cannot soak into the ground.  As stormwater moves across these surfaces, it collects dirt, debris, and chemicals carrying them directly to our rivers and streams.

In March 2003, Exeter was required to apply to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for a permit to discharge stormwater.  In order to meet the requirements of the permit, Exeter must reduce pollutants in stormwater discharges to the "maximum extent practicable."  The permit required the development of a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) to address how we would reduce stormwater pollution.

In January 2017, EPA issued an update to the MS4 permit, which went into effect on July 1, 2018. The new permit has expanded the requirements of the 2003 permit to include enhanced mapping, record keeping, pollutant tracking, and reporting requirements. The Stormwater Management Program (SWMP) describes the Best Management Practices that the Town is using to address the MS4 requirements. It is available for review online or at the Public Works office during regular business hours.  The public is encouraged to submit written comments on the SWMP to publicworks@exeternh.gov.