NYS issues general permit to expedite post-storm recovery efforts

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) have jointly issued the inaugural State Programmatic General Permit (NYSPGP-1). This permit streamlines activities aimed at expediting the recovery and restoration of properties, projects, aquatic resources, and infrastructure following significant storm events.

The NYSPGP-1 is designed to uphold critical environmental safeguards while facilitating swift restoration efforts. It encourages the adoption of best management practices to expedite the process of bringing infrastructure back online and restoring the quality of life for affected communities. Additionally, the permit is expected to assist eligible project sponsors and the public in obtaining reimbursements from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in the aftermath of specific storm events declared federal disasters.

DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos emphasized the importance of governmental agencies responding effectively during crises. He underscored the collaboration between DEC and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in enhancing storm response capabilities at both state and federal levels. Commissioner Seggos highlighted the permit as a vital tool in streamlining the permitting process, thereby eliminating redundancy and ensuring efficiency for municipalities during extreme storm recovery efforts or emergency declarations.

Lt. Col. Colby Krug, USACE Buffalo District Commander, stressed the necessity for agencies to be agile and responsive during emergency operations. He emphasized the permit’s role in expediting aid delivery to affected individuals and communities, noting that effective response requires a comprehensive, whole-of-government approach. The expedited permitting process stands as a testament to the cooperation between federal and state governments in addressing the needs of New York residents.

The NYSPGP-1 permit, when activated in response to widespread storm events, consolidates regulatory requirements governing the discharge of pollutants into various bodies of water, including freshwaters, rivers, streams, lakes, ponds, and wetlands. By providing a unified application process, the permit enhances the storm response capabilities of both agencies, ensuring expedited environmental approvals necessary for effective response to widespread storm events.

The NYSPGP-1 permit is applicable throughout New York State, with the exception of Long Island, New York City, and certain portions of Rockland and Westchester counties. Interested parties can access the permit through the provided link. For additional details regarding the NYSPGP-1 permit, including application and notification requirements, stakeholders are encouraged to visit the DEC’s website. Moreover, for assistance with permits required for flooding impacts and determinations on DEC permit requirements or approvals, individuals can reach out to the appropriate DEC region permit administrator.