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WATER PROTECTION BUREAU
Agency Use
MTR04_____________
Date Rec’d:
Amount Rec’d:
Check No.:
Rec’d By:
FORM
MS4-AR
MPDES Storm Water Small MS4 Annual Report Form
Reporting period is for the calendar year, January 1st through December 31st.
Check one. Annual Report is due by March 1st of the following year.
2017
2018
2019
2020
2021
authorized to discharge storm water under the General Permit for Storm Water Discharges
Associated with Small Municipal Separate Storm Water Sewer Systems (MS4s). All
authorized permittees and co-permittees are required to complete this Annual Report Form
for each calendar year reporting period. For co-permittees authorized under one permit
authorization or for co-permittees with multiple authorizations, you are required to complete
this form and submit separate required documents/information exclusively for your respective
regulated Small MS4 area(s). This completed Annual Report Form must be electronically
submitted to the Montana Department of Environmental Quality, Water Protection Bureau.
Electronic submission is required through the web-based tool: NetDMR. Additional
Small MS4 Authorization Number: MTR04_________________
Small MS4 Classification
Traditional
Non-Traditional
Small MS4 Name:
Small MS4 Mailing Address:
City, State, and Zip Code:
Small MS4 Contact Person (and Title):
Mailing Address:
City, State, and Zip Code:
Phone Number: ( ) E-mail address:
0000
City of Helena
316 N Park Ave
Helena, MT 59601
Matt Culpo (SWMP Coordinator)
316 N Park Avenue
Helena, MT 59601
4064478073
mculpo@helenamt.gov
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Storm Water Management Team: Attach an organizational chart identifying a primary SWMP
coordinator and the positions responsible for implementing each minimum measure.
Requested above chart:
Attached Not Attached
Has the permittee established and executed a formalized mechanism for
regular communication between storm water management team members?
Yes No
How many FTEs does the permittee designate to the MS4 permit? _____ If needed, provide an
explanation.
on a data storage device.
(1) What are the source(s) of funding for implementation of the MS4 permit and the estimated
percentage of the total budget allocated from each source listed?
(2) Specific to the annual reporting calendar year, how did the permittee justify commitment of
resources or budget allocations to the implementation of the MS4 permit to decision-makers and the
public? Provide a summary of meetings and outcomes held with decision-makers and the public.
(3) Has the permittee demonstrated program effectiveness to obtain budget allocations for this
annual reporting calendar year or previous years? Why or why not? If so, what program
effectiveness metrics were presented?
(4) How was this annual reporting calendar year’s approach to allocate resources different than the
previous year’s approach?
(5) Was the permittee successful in their request for budget allocations? Describe the outcome and
factors that affected or resulted in that outcome.
Illicit Discharge Detection & Elimination:
Per the IDDE MCM requirement (Part II (3)(c.i)), has the permittee
reviewed, and updated if needed, the storm sewer map during the calendar
year?
Yes No
Per the IDDE MCM requirement (Part II (3)(e.i)), has the permittee dry
weather inspected and screened outfalls during the calendar year?
Yes No
year. Since authorization under the 2017 General Permit, the permittee has inspected ______ total
3
9
18
34
Several people within Engineering and Utility Maintenance divisions of the Public Works
Department have duties related to the MS4. 3 FTEs is an estimate of the combined time of all
employees with some storm water responsibilities.
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Per the Illicit Discharge Detection & Elimination MCM (Part II (3)(e.i)), the
permittee will complete the requirement to inspect and screen all outfalls
during dry weather by the end of the permit cycle.
Yes No
Construction Site Storm Water Management: During the calendar year, how many construction
storm water management plan reviews were completed (Part II (4)(b))? ______________
During the calendar year, how many construction projects were inspected for their storm water
management controls (Part II (4)(c))? ______________
Pollution Prevention/Good Housekeeping for Permittee Operations:
Has the permittee reviewed, and updated if needed, the inventory of
permittee-owned/operated facilities and activities (Part II (6)(a.i))?
Yes No
Has the permittee reviewed, and updated if needed, the map that identifies
the locations of facilities and known locations of activities (Part II (6)(a.ii))?
Yes No
Has the permittee conducted annual storm water pollution prevention
training for permittee staff during the next permit year after development of
each standard operating procedure (Part II (6)(a.v))?
*Not applicable during calendar year 2017, 2018, and 2019. Check “No” during these years.*
Yes No
Training: According to Part II (B) Training requirements, has the permittee
conducted applicable training during the 1
st
and 4
th
calendar years?
*Not required during calendar year 2018, 2019, and 2021. Check “No” during these years.*
Yes No
According to Part II (B) Training requirements, has the permittee conducted
applicable new employee training within 90 days of the hire date?
Yes No
information regarding identification of all outfalls that discharge to impaired waterbodies, the
impaired waterbodies, and the associated pollutants of impairments. Summarize the BMPs
Attached Not Attached Not Applicable
Special Conditions: Approved TMDLs (Part III.B) requirements per calendar year below.
Calendar Year 2017: The permittee has attached a Sampling Plan that includes strategy rationale,
monitoring frequency, monitoring parameters, and monitoring locations.
Attached Not Attached Not Applicable
6
5
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Attached Not Attached Not Applicable
Calendar Year 2018: The permittee has attached all outfalls that discharge to impaired waterbodies
and the associated pollutants of impairment.
Attached Not Attached Not Applicable
Calendar Year 2019: The permittee has attached all outfalls that discharge to impaired waterbodies
and the associated pollutants of impairment.
Attached Not Attached Not Applicable
Calendar Year 2020: The permittee has attached all outfalls that discharge to impaired waterbodies
and the associated pollutants of impairment.
Attached Not Attached Not Applicable
the measures and BMPs it plans to implement, describes the MS4’s impairment priorities and long
term strategy, and outlines interim milestones for controlling the discharge of the pollutants of
Attached Not Attached Not Applicable
Calendar Year 2021: The permittee has attached all outfalls that discharge to impaired waterbodies
and the associated pollutants of impairment.
Attached Not Attached Not Applicable
monitoring results. The section has been revised, if needed, and is attached.
Attached
Not Attached Not Applicable
Monitoring: Per requirements in Part IV (B), has the permittee attached monitoring results,
calculations, and evaluations?
Attached Not Attached Not Applicable
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INSTRUCTIONS: The permittee will only fill out the Annual Report
Attachments section below that corresponds to the calendar in which an Annual
Report is being submitted for. Attach the requested documents/information.
Attached
Not Attached
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Attached
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Not applicable
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Attached
Not Attached
Attached
Not Attached
Attached
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of investigations conducted and corrective actions taken per the required Illicit Discharge
Attached
Not Attached
Not applicable
summary of investigations conducted and corrective actions taken per the required Illicit Discharge
Attached
Not Attached
Not applicable
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Attached
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of investigations conducted and corrective actions taken per the required Illicit Discharge
Attached
Not Attached
Not applicable
summary of investigations conducted and corrective actions taken per the required Illicit Discharge
Attached
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Not applicable
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Attached
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regarding inspections of high priority privately-owned post-construction storm water management
Attached
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Not applicable
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of investigations conducted and corrective actions taken per the required Illicit Discharge
Attached
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Not applicable
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Attached
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regarding inspections of high priority privately-owned post-construction storm water management
Attached
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Attached
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of investigations conducted and corrective actions taken per the required Illicit Discharge
Attached
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Not applicable
summary of investigations conducted and corrective actions taken per the required Illicit Discharge
Attached
Not Attached
Not applicable
Attached
Not Attached
regarding inspections of high priority privately-owned post-construction storm water management
Attached
Not Attached
Not applicable
Attached
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Attach any updates, changes, or improvements to the Small MS4 Storm Water Management
Program per requirements in Part IV (E).
Attached
Not Attached
Not applicable
Public Works Director
Randall Camp
Engineering Division
City Engineer
Ryan Leland
SWMP Coordinator
Matt Culpo
Utility Maintenance Division
Interim Superintendent
Dave Knopke
Supervisor
Trent Scheuer
Water Quality
Protection District
Jennifer McBroom
Engineering Division
Staff
Lewis and Clark County Health
Department
Kathy Moore
MCM 4 and 5
Engineering Division
reviews Construction
SWPPPs, inspects
construction BMPs,
and reviews and
inspects Post
Construction Storm
Water Controls.
MCM 1 and 2 SWMP
Coordinator conducts
additional outreach,
education and public
involvement activities
and coordinates with
WQPD.
MCM 3 - SWMP
Coordinator
interfaces with Utility
Maintenance for
IDDE.
MCM 3Utility
maintenance
performs video
inspections of storm
sewers
MCM 1 and 2WQPD
staff conducts
outreach, education
and public
involvement activities
RESPONSES TO QUESTIONS 1 -5
Page 2: Questions 1-5
1) The City of Helena has a storm water utility which charges property owners based on the
amount of impervious land they own. The storm water utility collects approximately 1 million
dollars annually. 100% of the funds from the storm water utility are used to operate, maintain
and manage the City’s MS4.
The City of Helena also teams up with Lewis and Clark County to assess property owners
between $8 and $10 per year which amounts to approximately $350,000 to fund the Water
Quality Protection District (WQPD). These funds are used to preserve, protect and improve
water quality with the WQPD, of which, the City of Helena is part of. The WQPD encompasses
Prickly Pear Creek and Ten Mile Creek watersheds which the City of Helena is tributary to. The
WQPD conducts restoration planning, monitoring, outreach and education activities.
2) The City prepares annual budgets for projects and expenditures based on priority. The City
prepared a Storm Water Master Plan (Master Plan) in 2003. The 2003 Master Plan was updated
in 2018. The Master Plan analyzes the storm water system for capacity, treatment and
condition and establishes an overall Capital Improvement Plan and identifies priority projects.
Priority projects include life/safety concerns, flooding, failing infrastructure, water quality and
maintenance improvements. City management and staff meet on a regular basis throughout
the year to discuss projects and assign priorities. City management and staff also meet
bimonthly in administration meeting with City Commission and at City Commission meetings
which are open to the public to discuss projects and priorities of City staff.
3) The City has demonstrated program effectiveness to obtain budget allocations by utilizing the
Storm Water Master Plan and actively pursuing and updating the Storm Water Master Plan; by
responding to MS4 requirement s and needs through the development of a Storm Water
Management Plan and Engineering Design Standards; by continuing ongoing storm water quality
programs, operation, inspection and maintenance of the storm water system; and by
development of additional activities and reporting as needed or as required by the MS4
program. The program effectiveness metrics presented include: storm water monitoring results,
capital expenditures on storm water projects, quantity of storm water treated, quantity of storm
water system inspected, completion of maintenance projects, quantity of material removed
from streets and the storm water system, ability to clean up illicit discharges,
coordination/review/implementation of storm water treatment facilities for developments, and
inspections of construction project and storm water system components.
4) This year’s approach to allocated resources built upon the program developed in prior years.
Effective programs were continued, existing programs were updated and new programs where
added as needed. Some examples of resource allocations include: continuation of the storm
sewer inspection and street sweeping programs, preparing updates to the Storm Water Master
Plan and the Storm Water Management Plan, and focused staff reviews of development projects
to incorporate effective low impact development and water quality treatment.
5) The permittee was successful in their requests for budget allocations. The outcome of the
budget allocation requests include continuation of storm water programs described above in
question 4. The outcome of some of the budget allocation requests include completion of the
Henderson Street Drainage and Erosion Control Improvement Project, a $300,000 capital
improvement project; which included planting of 56 trees. A storm sewer emergency repair
project was also conducted in 2018. The emergency repair from installed 48 inch diameter
storm pipe along two city blocks along 11
th
Avenue and Dakota Street from Montana Ave to 9
th
Ave and abandoned a collapsed 36 inch corrugated metal pipe. This project cost approximately
$500,000 and utilized city staff for design, construction oversight and construction
administration. Funding for an outreach and education flyer and information page on the use of
raingardens were mailed out to all utility costumers and posted on the City’s website at a cost of
$6,000.
Outfalls for the City of Helena
Outfall
No.
Drainage
Basin
Outfall BMP
Outfall
Conveyance
Street Location
1
Westside
East Simmons Detention Pond
30 inch
Broadwater Ave and spring meadow
2
West Simmons Detention Pond
12 inch
Broadwater and Motor Ave
High
Priority
Outfalls
3 Henderson Retention Pond Complex
24 inch
Silsbee Ave and Mitchell near
Fairgrounds
24 inch
4
Fairgrounds Detention Pond
16 inch
Fairgrounds east of Arena
5
North Stone Meadows Detention Pond
8 inch
Andesite Ave and crystal springs creek
6
Central Stone Meadows Detention Pond
10 inch
Benton Ave and Flagstone Ave
7
South Stone Meadows Detention Pond
8 Inch
Benton Ave south of Obsidian Ave
8
Crystal Springs Detention Pond
Open Channel
Benton and Willowbrook
9
County Shop Detention Basin
Open Channel
E of N Benton and Willowbrook Drive
10
Last
Chance
Nature Park Retention Pond, and on-site
detention/ret ponds 24 inch
McHugh Lane north of Golden Estates
subdivision
11
Golden Estates Detention Pond
18 inch
Jade Street and Amethyst Ave (golden
estates)
12
Skelton Detention 1, 2, 3, and 4
24 inch
North of Ptarmigan and Montana Ave
13
Anderson BP Detention and open channel
Open Channel
S of Road Runner and Sand Piper
14
Davis
Target Retention Pond
36 inch
Jordan Drive behind Macy's
15
Davis Region Pond and Kmart Pond
48 inch
I-15 Regional Ponds
16
Bull Run
West
Burnham Ranch Retention Pond
17
Helena Regional Detention and York and
Custer Detention 55 inch York Road north of Custer
18
Airport
Airport Detention 4, 5.1, and 5.2 and 1400ft
of open channel 21 inch Canyon Ferry Road east of Y-county
19
Airport Retention R-13 and National Guard,
Helena Aviation, Fire and D10 Detention 48 x 60 inch
Helena Valley Canal Crossing east of
National Guard
20
Airport Retention R-910 and Detention
Pond 2 54 inch
Helena Valley Canal Crossing east end
Airport
21
Bull Run
Upstream
of Airport
Walmart Detention 1 and 2
36 in
NW of Miller and Carter
22
Staples Detention
18 in
NW of Miller and Carter
23
Future Nichole St Pond
36 in
N of Nichole St and RR Tracks
Outfall
No.
Drainage
Basin
Outfall BMP
Outfall
Conveyance
Street Location
24
Open Channel
Open Channel
N of Dick Anderson Construction
25
Hunters Point and Mountain West Bank
Detention Open Channel
N of I15, upstream of Synness Auto
Salvage
26
Nob Hill Retention 1 and 2, and Nob Hill
Detention 1, Grass swale along I15 24 in NW of I15 and Mendocino Drive
27
Far East
Nob Hill Detention 4
Open Channel
Colonial drive south of Nob Hill Lift
station
28
Aspen Meadows Detention
84 inch
Alice street East of Crossroads Pkwy
29 Grass channel, small basin at culvert inlet 2-24 inch
Crossroads Pkwy and Prospect Ave
(highway 12)
30
West Aspen Meadows Retention
24 inch
Alice street East of Cascade Ave
31
East Aspen Meadows Retention
42 inch
Twilight and Stillwater streets
32
East Aspen Meadows Retention
12 inch
Runkle Pkwy between Still water and
Alpine View
33
Open Channel for 700ft
12 inch
Runkle Pkwy and Highway 282
34
Aspen Meadows Detention North and South
36 inch
Highway 282 south of Runkle Parkway
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Source: Esri, DigitalGlobe, GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics, CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AEX, Getmapping, Aerogrid, IGN, IGP, swisstopo, and the GIS
User Community
PATH: G:\PROJECTS\HELENA_CITY_OF\SWMP 2017\MAP_DOCS\FIGURE A.1_OVERALL STORM SYSTEM & BASIN MAP.MXD - USER: SSAVAGE - DATE: 12/20/2016
OVERALL STORM SYSTEM AND BASIN MAP
FIGURE A.1
CITY OF HELENA, MT
CITY OF HELENA STORM WATER MANAGEMENT PLAN (DECEMBER 2016)
0 0.50.25
Miles
O
DATA SOURCE: (ESRI, City of Helena)
LEGEND
VT
Existing Outfall
&(
Storm Water Pond
Storm Drain
City Limits
1
3
4
5
7
6
10
11
12
14
17
18
19
20
31
32
28
24
30
26
Westside Basin
Last
Chance
Gulch
Basin
Davis Gulch Basin
Airport Basin
Far East Basin
Bull
Run
Basin
Tenmile Creek
Prickly Pear Creek
2
9
8
13
15
16
22
21
23
25
27
29
33
34
See Table 4 for detailed
outfall information.
Note:
Helena Valley
Irrigation Ditch
WWTP
Effluent Canal
Fl
ow
R
a
t
e
(gal/min)
p
H
(s.u.)
TSS
Oil
&
Grease
Nitrogen Phosphorus Zinc Lead Copper COD
EPA NURP Median Concentration 6 to 9 125 10 2.00 0.41 0.210 0.165 0.040 80
001A 5/3/2007 14 7.4 88 19 0.15 0.25 0.090 0.020 0.020 29
10/3/2007 98 7.4 68 4.9 1.02 0.71 0.140 0.010 0.030 330
18th Street near Walmar
t
5/6/2008 87 5.7 384 9 2.69 2.40 2.150 0.440 0.330 900
GIS id: BR-1-92-7-3
11/13/2008 39 6.6 140 8.8 0.86 0.48 0.300 0.050 0.070 410
6/14/2009 50 7.6 112 9.3 1.31 0.46 0.380 0.030 0.060 390
7/28/2009 1400 6.9 44 4.1 0.46 0.08 0.070 ND 0.030 130
5/3/2010 350 6.9 390 7.3 0.92 0.70 0.520 0.060 0.100 490
8/29/2010 225 6.3 368 14 0.05 0.37 0.830 0.080 0.110 320
11/16/2010 91 7.8 244 9 0.64 0.47 0.260 0.030 0.040 65
5/22/2011 7.6 38 6.5 0.43 0.07 0.110 0.010 0.030 130
8/2/2011 350 7.3 349 8.4 0.49 0.42 0.280 0.050 0.050 75
3/28/2012 6.9 1260 5 0.39 0.66 0.740 0.174 0.137 130
7/17/2012 550 7.6 442 5 1.46 0.82 0.790 0.066 0.129 92
10/3/2012 180 6.6 50 5 2.52 1.71 0.920 0.034 0.122 1300
5/23/2013 269 8.0 60 <1 0.15 0.29 0.150 0.030 0.030 22
9/17/2013 314 5.1 196 4 0.04 0.45 0.070 0.004 0.012 470
6/25/2014 283 7.0 604 2 0.19 1.73 0.308 0.126 0.073 298
8/25/2014 426 6.8 188 <1 <0.01 0.32 0.162 0.017 0.006 145
9/29/2014 247 7.4 189 1 0.1 0.27 0.117 0.021 0.013 58
5/16/2015 202 7.4 1500 5 1.01 0.20 0.711 0.142 0.135 180
7/10/2015 404 6.2 380 <1 0.21 1.01 0.348 0.043 0.089 338
10/1/2015 539 7.3 53 1 0.17 0.19 0.061 0.008 0.023 17
4/14/2016 134 8.0 264 <1 0.50 0.74 0.330 0.090 0.060 100
5/20/2016 718 7.1 408 <1 <.01 0.71 0.280 0.040 0.050 288
8/9/2016 582 7.6 964 3 <.01 1.05 0.530 0.070 0.080 372
9/20/2016 157 6.4 224 <1 0.37 0.48 0.020 0.020 0.050 415
6/13/2017 20 7.3 33 <1 0.04 0.14 0.039 0.004 0.001 31.6
9/15/2017 1 7.3 84 <1 0.12 0.18 0.098 0.012 0.012 411
4/27/2018 1 7.7 484 <1 0.35 0.91 0.303 0.049 0.099 463
002A 5/3/2007 6.46 6.9 160 12 2.23 3.88 0.100 0.020 0.040 350
9/24/2007 85 6.8 76 13 0.76 0.53 0.150 ND 0.030 340
Broadway and Sanders
5/6/2008 215 7.6 2970 25 1.17 0.79 0.590 0.120 0.130 240
GIS Id: DG-3-9
11/13/2008 51.34 7.0 124 6.1 0.35 0.36 0.130 0.020 0.040 190
6/15/2009 5400 7.6 56 3.4 0.88 0.40 0.120 ND 0.040 330
7/7/2009 400 7.6 610 5.3 0.53 0.23 0.140 0.020 0.050 310
7/28/2009 3000 7.2 ND 4.1 0.50 0.11 0.050 ND 0.010 80
4/13/2010 30 7.3 520 5.1 1.58 0.70 0.310 0.050 0.090 250
5/3/2010 1250 7.5 485 7.2 0.41 0.64 0.340 0.050 0.090 180
8/28/2010 115 6.8 134 7.8 0.89 0.24 0.160 0.020 0.040 140
10/24/2010 19 7.2 56 4.8 0.52 12.20 0.170 ND 0.050 260
5/24/2011 1000 8.2 386 5.1 0.31 0.28 0.220 0.040 0.050 36
7/31/2011 3500 6.9 50 7.1 0.61 0.28 1.100 0.150 0.190 250
4/6/2012 100 7.6 908 5 1.14 0.82 0.300 0.041 0.063 170
8/28/2012 21 7.8 201 4 0.33 0.21 0.330 0.035 0.056 26
4/8/2013 1122 6.9 1670 6 2.20 1.41 0.730 0.152 0.187 450
8/29/2013 358 6.8
484 3 0.17 0.37 0.400 0.066 0.077 130
6/17/2014 359 7.6 70 <1 0.08 0.23 0.041 <0.01 0.083 33
8/25/2014 673 7.1 276 <1 0.58 0.49 0.084 0.018 <0.01 87
9/29/2014 112 6.8 121 1 <0.01 0.50 0.087 0.008 0.039 224
5/16/2015 76 7.9 956 3 1.42 1.52 0.334 0.053 0.065 230
7/10/2015 22 7.2 772 3 0.41 1.16 0.247 0.034 0.079 258
10/3/2015 49 7.2 85 1 0.01 0.46 0.073 0.007 0.018 128
4/14/2016 112 7.5 540 1 0.60 0.84 0.220 0.030 0.040 102
5/20/2016 157 7.3 500 1 0.03 0.81 0.250 0.030 0.060 232
8/9/2016 1792 7.4 1320 4 0.02 1.72 0.600 0.060 0.070 347
6/13/2017 1 7.3 121 <1 0.25 0.28 0.036 0.004 0.023 49.6
9/15/2017 1 7.2 1792 <1 0.53 0.83 0.03 0.05 0.093 633
4/27/2018 1 8.0 408 2 0.03 2.24 0.22 0.04 0.067 190
003A
5/18/2018 No Flow
8/27/2018 No Flow
004A 1/14/2010 NA 7.7 432 13 1.35 0.45 0.330 0.060 0.070 82
2/22/2012 N
A
7.9 387 4 0.40 0.70 0.180 0.047 0.045 32
5/18/2018 N
A
8.0 126 1 1.03 0.31 0.073 0.017 0.015 29
8/27/2018 N
A
7.9 67 1 0.78 0.24 0.080 0.009 0.015 58
004B 5/18/2018 No Flow
8/27/2018 No Flow
005A
5/18/2018 7.9 53 ND 0.43 0.17 0.040 0.007 0.009 38
8/27/2018 No Flow
005B
5/18/2018 No Flow
8/27/2018 No Flow
Kmart Pond Inlet
NA 1/14/2010 NA 7.5 944 20 2.72 0.65 0.52 0.10 0.09 200
5/24/2011 N
A
8.0 58 1.5 0.86 0.09 ND ND 0.09 34
2/22/2012 N
A
8.2 578 4 0.43 0.70 0.31 0.12 0.07 47
7/16/2013 N
A
8.2 <10 <1 6.64 0.04 <0.01 <0.001 <0.005 11
3/10/2014 N
A
8.1 250 2 0.62 0.69 0.07 0.03 0.04 92
Kmart Pond Outlet
7/16/2013 NA 8.3 ND 1 0.01 0.07 ND ND ND 39
Hunters Pointe at Outlet Structure
NA 5/24/2011 NA 8.0 58 1.5 0.86 0.09 0.04 ND ND 34
2/22/2012 NA 8.0 78 6 0.33 0.33 0.04 0.01 0.01 77
7/16/2013 NA 8.3 <10 <1 0.01 0.07 <0.01 <0.001 <0.005 30
3/10/2014 NA 7.9 72 <1 0.44 0.45 0.03 0.01 0.027 39
Henderson Pond Complex at Silsbee
NA 2/22/2012 NA 8.3 490 4 0.20 0.74 0.29 0.06 0.061 44
3/10/2014 N
A
7.8 6 <1 2.51 0.20 0.01 <0.01 0.023 29
Nature Park Inlet (north of RR)
NA 1/14/2010 NA 7.7 432 13 1.35 0.45 0.330 0.060 0.070 82
2/22/2012 N
A
7.9 387 4 0.40 0.70 0.180 0.047 0.045 32
Custer Wetland at crossing near
Fairgrounds
NA 3/10/2014 NA 7.8 34 <1 0.22 0.37 0.027 0.009 0.029 43
I-15 Crossing to Regional Pond
NA 3/10/2014 NA 7.9 96 <1 0.42 0.44 0.037 0.014 0.030 48
Custer Regional Pond 6 Overflow
NA 3/10/2014 NA 7.7 49 <1 0.70 0.32 0.023 0.008 0.027 41
DNRC Pond West Inlet
NA 9/14/2017 NA 7.0 300 <1 1.41 0.43 0.056 0.072 0.114 317
DNRC Pond East Inlet
N
A
9/14/2017 N
A
7.2 868 <1 1.51 0.69 0.271 0.036 0.072 435
DNRC Pond Outlet
NA 9/14/2017 NA 7.2 140 <1 1.96 0.33 0.322 0.018 0.105 245
EPA NURP Median Concentration 6 to 9 125 10 2.00 0.41 0.210 0.165 0.040 80
Notes:
Bold = Measured parameter exceeds receiving water standards or 1992 EPA NURP median concentration.
Helena Storm Water Sample Results
Industrial/ Commercial Area
Residential Area
Parameter (mg/L unless shown)
Date
Discharge
Number
Sample Location
Last Chance Gulch at Confluence of Oro
Fino and Grizzly Gulches
Nature Park Inlet (north of RR)
Nature Park Outlet d.s. of Cole Avenue
Henderson Pond Complex Inlet d.s. of
Allision St Pond
Henderson Pond Complex Outlet into
Custer Wetlands
0.0
1.0
2.0
3.0
4.0
5.0
6.0
7.0
8.0
9.0
10.0
pH
Date
pH
Point001A Point002A Standard
0.00
2.00
4.00
6.00
8.00
10.00
12.00
14.00
Phosphorus(mg/L)
Date
Phosphorus
Point001A Point002A Standard
0
500
1000
1500
2000
2500
3000
3500
TSS(mg/L)
Date
TSS
Point001A Point002A Standard
0.000
0.500
1.000
1.500
2.000
2.500
Zinc(mg/L)
Date
Zinc
Point001A Point002A Standard
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
O&G(mg/L)
Date
Oil&Grease
Point001A Point002A Standard
0.000
0.050
0.100
0.150
0.200
0.250
0.300
0.350
0.400
0.450
0.500
Lead(mg/L)
Date
Lead
Point001A Point002A Standard
0
0.5
1
1.5
2
2.5
3
Nitrogen(mg/L)
Date
Nitrogen
Point001A Point002A Standard
0.000
0.050
0.100
0.150
0.200
0.250
0.300
0.350
Copper (mg/L)
Date
Copper
Point001A Point002A Standard
0
200
400
600
800
1000
1200
1400
COD(mg/L)
Date
COD
Point001A Point002A Standard
MCM1AND2
PublicEducationandOutreach
PublicInvolvementandParticipation
Thefollowingflierwasmailedtoover12,000residentsandbusinessesthatreceiveautilitybill.
Table1:PublicOutreachandEducationKey TargetAudiences
BusinessTypeor
ResidentialBehaviorwith
PotentialforIllicit
Discharge
Descriptionand
RationaleofPotential
IllicitDischarge
PrimaryPotential
Pollutants
BMPforPollutantDisposal,Treatmentor
BehavioralChangetoReduceorEliminate
PotentialIllicitDischarge
BusinessTypes
AutoService/GasStations
Useofautomotive
fluids.Potentialfor
spillingandneedfor
properdisposal.
PetroleumProducts
RequireOil/Waterseparatorsfornewfacilities.
City/CountyDisposalandRecyclingavailable.
Restaurants
Useofcooking
materialssuchasoils,
fatsandgrease.
Potentialforspilling
andneedforproper
disposal.
Oils,fatsand
grease.
Industrialpretreatmentprogram.
Fats,oilsandgreasebrochure.
Requiredtouseandoperateagreasetrap.
Fats,oil,greasedisposalandrecycling.
Inspectionsandrecordkeeping.
CommercialCarWashes
Useofsoapsandwater
towashoffOil/Sand
fromvehicles.
Oil,sand,
phosphorous.
Oil/Sandseparators.
Dischargetosanitarysewer.
IndustrialFacilities
Useofchemicalsand
heavymetals.Potential
forspillingandneedfor
disposal.
VariousHeavy
Metalsand
Chemicals
Industrialpretreatmentprogram.
IndustrialUserPermitRequired.
Inspectionsandrecordkeeping.
ConstructionActivities
Useofconstruction
materialssuchas
wastewaterform
concretewashouts,
whichhavethe
potentialtopollute
downstream
waterwaysifnot
properlycontained.
Sediment,
wastewaterfrom
concretewashouts,
fuels,paintsand
fertilizers.
Requirethatregulatedconstructionactivities
obtaincoverageundertheConstructionGeneral
Permit.
SWPPPreview.
Siteinspections.
ParkingLotsandVehicle
StorageFacilities
Potentialforspilling
andleakingautomotive
fluids.
PetroleumProducts Oil/Sandseparators.
ResidentialBehaviors
VehicleMaintenance
Potentialforspilling
andleakingautomotive
fluids.
PetroleumProducts
Landfilldisposalandrecycling.
Informationalbrochuredistribution.
Citywebsiteinformation.
LawnCare
Useoffertilizers,
pesticidesandweed
controlproducts.
Fertilizers,
pesticides,and
weedcontrol
products.
Landfillacceptsyarddebris.
Informationalbrochuredistribution.
Citywebsiteinformation.
HomeMaintenance
Useofpaintsand
householdchemicals.
Petroleum
products,paint,
cleaningproducts.
Normalhouseholdwastedisposaltosanitary
sewer.
Landfilldisposalandrecycling.
Informationalbrochuredistribution.
Citywebsiteinformation.
MCM3
ILLICITDISCHARGEDETECTIONANDELIMINATION
PermitReference:PartII.A.3.a.i.
TheCityconductsvideosurveysofitsstormwatersystemonaregularbasisandhasnotseen
anyevidenceofsignificantnonstormwaterdischargestoitssystem.Assuch,theCityisnot
currentlyawareofanynonstormwaterdischargesthatcontributeasignificantamountof
pollutantstothestormwatersystem.AnOrdinanceisinaffectwhichprohibitsillegal
dischargeswhichcontainpollutantsthatcauseorcontributetoaviolationofapplicablewater
qualitystandardsorthatcouldcausetheCitytobeinviolationoftheGeneralPermit.The
specificsectionoftheOrdinancethataddressesillegaldischargescanbefoundinTitle6,
Chapter610oftheCityCodeandacopyoftheOrdinanceisprovidedinAppendixI.Potential
fornonstormwaterdischargeswhicharesignificantcontributorsofpollutantswillbereviewed
annuallyandaddressedineachyears’annualreport.
ThefollowingnonstormwaterdischargesareexemptfromtheOrdinanceandarenot
consideredanillegaldischarge:waterlineflushingorotherpotablewatersources,landscape
irrigationorlawnwatering,divertedstreamflows,risinggroundwater,groundwaterinfiltration
tostormdrains,uncontaminatedandpumpedgroundwater,foundationorfootingdrains(not
includingactivegroundwaterdewateringsystems),springs,noncommercialwashingofvehicles,
naturalriparianhabitatorwetlandflows,firefightingactivities,routinestreetandutility
maintenance,includingchipsealingandspreadingofgravelandothermaterialsnecessaryto
providesafestreets,andanyotherwatersourcenotcontainingpollutants.
OccasionalIncidentalNonStormWaterDischargesnottobeaddressedasIlli citDisc harges
OccasionalIncidentalnon
stormwaterdischarge
PotentialPollutants LocalControlsorConditions Reasonfornonsignificance
CharityCarWashes
Sedimentand
Phosphorous
None Infrequentoccurrence
SprinklerSystemOverspray
andbreaks
Chlorine None
Oversprayandbreaksare
usuallyrepairedbytheowner
orreportedbyresidencesor
Citypersonnel.
ResidentialCarWashes
Sedimentand
Phosphorous
None Infrequentandsmallscale
Waterlineflushing Chlorine Useofdechlorinationequipment
Useofwatermainflushing
rulesanddechlorination
equipment(AppendixD)
MainBreaks Chlorine Isolation/Termination
Rareandunpredictable
FireFighting
ChlorineandFire
SuppressionChemicals
StandardOperatingProcedures EmergencyResponse
Chapter 6
STORMWATER CONTROL
6-6-1: TITLE:
This chapter may be cited as the HELENA STORMWATER CONTROL CHAPTER. (Ord. 3120, 12-21-2009)
6-6-2: PURPOSE:
The purpose of this chapter is to provide for the health, safety, and general welfare of the citizens of the city of Helena by protecting water quality through the regulation
of nonstormwater discharges to the stormwater drainage system to the maximum extent practicable as required by federal and state law. This chapter establishes
methods for controlling the introduction of pollutants into the municipal separate storm sewer system (MS4) in order to comply with requirements of the Montana
pollutant discharge elimination system (MPDES) permit process. The objectives of this chapter are:
A. To regulate the contribution of pollutants to the municipal separate storm sewer system from stormwater discharges by any user.
B. To prohibit illegal connections to and discharges into the municipal separate storm sewer system.
C. To establish legal authority to carry out all inspection, surveillance, and monitoring procedures necessary to ensure compliance with this chapter.
D. To establish legal authority to develop, implement, and enforce a program to address stormwater runoff from new development and redevelopment projects. (Ord.
3120, 12-21-2009)
6-6-3: DEFINITIONS:
For purposes of this chapter, the following definitions apply:
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES (BMPs): Schedules of activities, prohibitions of practices, general good housekeeping practices, pollution prevention and
educational practices, maintenance procedures, and other management practices to prevent or reduce the discharge of pollutants directly or indirectly to stormwater,
receiving waters, or stormwater conveyance systems. BMPs also include treatment practices, operating procedures, and practices to control site runoff, spillage or
leaks, sludge or water disposal, or drainage from raw materials storage.
CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITY: Development and redevelopment projects resulting in any land disturbance including, but not limited to, clearing and grubbing, grading,
excavating, and demolition.
DEPARTMENT: City of Helena public works department.
DETENTION/RETENTION BASINS: A normally dry area designed to capture and hold stormwater. The stormwater may be captured and released at a uniform rate
after the storm peak flow has passed (detention) or the stormwater may be held for evaporation or infiltration into the ground and not released at all (retention).
DISCHARGE: Any direct or indirect nonstormwater discharge to the storm drain system.
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS: Any material, including any substance, waste, or combination thereof, which because of its quantity, concentration, or physical, chemical,
or infectious characteristics may cause, or significantly contribute to, a substantial present or potential hazard to human health, safety, property, or the environment
when improperly treated, stored, transported, disposed of, or otherwise managed. This includes materials defined as hazardous by the United States environmental
protection agency and the Montana department of environmental quality.
ILLEGAL CONNECTIONS: Any drain or conveyance, whether on the surface or subsurface, which allows an illegal discharge to enter the storm drain system including,
but not limited to, any conveyances that allow any nonstormwater discharge, including sewage, processed wastewater, and wash water to enter the storm drain
system, and any connections to the storm drain system from indoor drains and sinks, regardless of whether said drains or connections had been previously allowed,
permitted, or approved by the department, or any drain or conveyance connected from a commercial or industrial land use to the storm drain system which has not
been documented in plans, maps, or equivalent records, and approved by the department.
INDUSTRIAL ACTIVITY: Activities subject to MPDES industrial permits as defined in 40 CFR, section 122.26(b)(14).
MS4: The municipal separate storm sewer system including stormwater drainage facilities and system.
MANMADE DRAINAGEWAY: An open channel designed to carry stormwater.
MONTANA POLLUTANT DISCHARGE ELIMINATION SYSTEM (MPDES) STORMWATER DISCHARGE PERMIT: A permit issued by the Montana department of
environmental quality that authorizes the discharge of pollutants to surface waters of the United States, whether the permit is applicable on an individual, group, or
general areawide basis. Also includes permits issued by the United States environmental protection agency.
NATURAL DRAINAGEWAY: A recognizable drainage which has historically carried storm or runoff water. The drainageway may still be in its native state or may be
partially or totally encroached upon. The limits of the drainageway are considered to be the outermost area of flow for the design storm or the prescribed easement for
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the drainageway.
NONSTORMWATER DISCHARGE: Any discharge to the storm drain system that is not composed entirely of stormwater.
PERSON: Any individual, association, organization, partnership, firm, corporation or other entity recognized by law.
POLLUTANT: Anything which causes or contributes to pollution. Pollutants may include, but are not limited to, paints, varnishes, and solvents; oil and other automotive
fluids; nonhazardous liquid and solid wastes; and refuse, rubbish, garbage, litter, or other discarded or abandoned objects and accumulations, so that same may cause
or contribute to pollution; floatables; pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers; hazardous materials and wastes; sewage, fecal coliform, and pathogens; dissolved and
particulate metals; animal wastes; wastes and residues that result from constructing a building or structure; and noxious or offensive matter of any kind.
PREMISES: Any building, lot, parcel of land, or portion of land, whether improved or unimproved, including adjacent sidewalks and parking strips.
STORM DRAINAGE SYSTEM OR FACILITIES: City owned or controlled facilities that are part of the MS4 by which stormwater is collected or conveyed, including, but
not limited to, any roads with drainage systems, municipal streets, gutters, curbs, inlets, piped storm drains, pumping facilities, retention and detention basins, natural
and humanmade or altered drainage channels, reservoirs, and other drainage structures.
STORMWATER: Any surface flow, runoff, and drainage consisting entirely of water from any form of natural precipitation, and resulting from such precipitation.
STORMWATER POLLUTION PREVENTION PLAN: A written document which describes the best management practices and activities to be implemented by a person
to identify sources of pollution or contamination at a site, and the actions to eliminate or reduce pollutant discharges to stormwater, stormwater conveyance systems, or
receiving waters to the maximum extent practicable.
STORMWATER UTILITY: A funding mechanism for maintenance and operation of, as well as capital improvements to, the stormwater drainage system. The utility is a
user fee charged equitably to all property within the service area which benefits from the utility.
WASTEWATER: Any water or other liquid, other than uncontaminated stormwater, discharged from a facility. (Ord. 3120, 12-21-2009)
6-6-4: APPLICABILITY:
This chapter applies to all water entering the city's separate stormwater system that is generated on any developed and undeveloped land. (Ord. 3120, 12-21-2009)
6-6-5: STORMWATER UTILITY SERVICE AREA:
The stormwater utility service area is inclusive of all premises annexed to the city and bounded by the incorporated city limits as the same may be adjusted by the city
commission.
The city reserves the right to plan for drainage improvements outside the service area. The city may also construct storm drainage improvements out of the service
area when needed as an integral part of the storm drain facilities located within the service area. (Ord. 3120, 12-21-2009)
6-6-6: RESPONSIBILITY FOR ADMINISTRATION:
The department shall administer, implement, and enforce the provisions of this chapter. Any powers granted or duties imposed upon the department may be delegated
by the department to persons or entities acting in the beneficial interest of or in the employ of the city. (Ord. 3120, 12-21-2009)
6-6-7: COOPERATION WITH THE COUNTY:
The city shall, in all ways and within the limits of its powers, solicit the county to cooperate in providing drainage facilities in stormwater basins, or parts thereof,
extending outside the city and, in general, to carry out the drainage plan developed therein. (Ord. 3120, 12-21-2009)
6-6-8: STORM DRAINAGE MASTER PLAN:
The storm drainage master plan prepared by Stahley and Wright-McLaughlin Engineers and dated April 9, 1980, as well as the application updates of the Davis Gulch
Basin dated May 1985, prepared by Robert Peccia and Associates, and the updates of the Last Chance Gulch Basin, Bull Run Basin and West Area Basin prepared by
Stahley Engineering and Associates, dated May 1989, are hereby adopted by reference and declared to be part of this chapter. The plans are on file in the office of the
city engineer. The city may adopt additional master drainage plan updates by reference and declare them to be a part of this chapter, and copies of such master
drainage plan updates shall be on file in the office of the city engineer. Modifications of the plans may be initiated by the department and submitted to the city
commission for approval. Approved modifications are to be filed in the office of the city engineer. (Ord. 3120, 12-21-2009)
6-6-9: ULTIMATE RESPONSIBILITY:
The standards set forth herein and promulgated pursuant to this chapter are minimum standards; therefore, this chapter does not intend nor imply that compliance by
any person will ensure that there will be no contamination, pollution, or unauthorized discharge of pollutants. (Ord. 3120, 12-21-2009)
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6-6-10: PROHIBITION OF ILLEGAL DISCHARGES:
A. A person may not discharge or cause to be discharged into the MS4 any materials, including, but not limited to, pollutants or waters containing any pollutants that
cause or contribute to a violation of applicable water quality standards or that could cause the city to be in violation of its MPDES phase II permit, other than
stormwater. Any such prohibited discharge is an illegal discharge.
B. The commencement, conduct, or continuance of any illegal discharge to the MS4 is prohibited except as follows:
1. Water line flushing or other potable water sources, landscape irrigation or lawn watering, diverted stream flows, rising groundwater, groundwater infiltration to
storm drains, uncontaminated and pumped groundwater, foundation or footing drains (not including active groundwater dewatering systems), springs,
noncommercial washing of vehicles, natural riparian habitat or wetland flows, firefighting activities, routine street and utility maintenance, including chip sealing
and spreading of gravel and other materials necessary to provide safe streets, and any other water source not containing pollutants;
2. Discharges specified in writing by the department as being necessary to protect public health and safety;
3. Any nonstormwater discharge permitted under an MPDES permit, waiver, or waste discharge order issued to the discharger and administered under the authority
of the federal environmental protection agency, provided that the discharger is in full compliance with all requirements of the permit, waiver, or order and other
applicable laws and regulations, and provided that written approval has been granted for any discharge to the storm drain system; and
4. Other nonstormwater discharges which are not a source of pollutants to the city's MS4 or waters of the United States and are exempted in writing by the
department.
C. It is unlawful to introduce hazardous materials into any drainage system. The originator of any hazardous material spill or introduction is responsible for the material,
and shall pay all applicable investigation and cleanup costs, including the cost of equipment, materials, staff time with fringes, and consultant charges.
D. The city may use available and reasonable testing to identify the source of an illegal discharge including, but not limited to, visual inspections, sample collection and
testing, dye testing, and smoke testing. (Ord. 3120, 12-21-2009)
6-6-11: DRAINAGEWAY PROTECTION:
A. It is unlawful to encroach upon natural or manmade drainageways with:
1. Temporary or permanent structures not approved by the city manager; or
2. Fill material or other material obstructing or restricting natural stormwater flow.
B. Natural or manmade drainageways may be altered under the supervision of, and upon application to, the department under the following circumstances:
1. A roadway crossing, provided drainage is considered in the design and culverts are designed to handle proper flow as specified in the master plan and updates,
or bridges are designed such that the opening is adequate;
2. Improvements such as detention basins; and
3. Slope improvements.
All improvements or changes to drainageways must be designed by a registered professional engineer and submitted for approval to the department. Approval
must be obtained before any on site work commences. (Ord. 3120, 12-21-2009)
6-6-12: PROHIBITION OF ILLEGAL CONNECTIONS:
A. The construction, use, maintenance or continued existence of illegal connections to the storm drain system is prohibited.
B. This prohibition expressly includes, without limitation, illegal connections made in the past, regardless of whether the connection was permissible under law or
practices applicable or prevailing at the time of connection.
C. A person who wishes to connect to the MS4 shall obtain permission from the department to install the connection in accordance with city engineering standards.
(Ord. 3120, 12-21-2009)
6-6-13: SUSPENSION OF MS4 ACCESS:
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A. The department may, without prior notice, suspend MS4 discharge access to a person when such suspension is necessary to stop an actual or threatened discharge
which presents or may present imminent and substantial danger to the environment, or to the health or welfare of persons, or to the MS4 or waters of the United
States. If the violator fails to comply with a suspension order issued in an emergency, the department may take such steps as deemed necessary to prevent or
minimize damage to the MS4 or waters of the United States, or to minimize danger to persons.
B. A person discharging to the MS4 in violation of this chapter may have their MS4 access terminated if such termination would abate or reduce an illegal discharge.
The department will notify a violator of the proposed termination of its MS4 access. The violator may petition the department for a reconsideration and hearing.
C. A person commits an offense if the person reinstates MS4 access to premises terminated pursuant to this section, without the prior approval of the department.
(Ord. 3120, 12-21-2009)
6-6-14: MONITORING OF DISCHARGES:
A. This section applies to all facilities that have stormwater discharges including construction activity.
B. The department is permitted to enter and inspect MS4 facilities subject to regulation under this chapter as often as may be necessary to determine compliance with
this chapter. If a discharger has security measures in force which require proper identification and clearance before entry into its premises, the discharger shall
make the necessary arrangements to allow access to representatives of the department.
C. Facility operators shall allow the department ready access to all parts of the premises for the purposes of inspection, sampling, examination and copying of records
that must be kept under the conditions of an MPDES permit to discharge stormwater, and the performance of any additional duties as defined by state and federal
law.
D. The department has the right to set up on any permitted facility such devices as are necessary in the opinion of the department to conduct monitoring or sampling of
the facility's stormwater discharge.
E. The department has the right to require the discharger to install monitoring equipment as necessary. The facility's sampling and monitoring equipment must be
maintained at all times in a safe and proper operating condition by the discharger at its own expense. All devices used to measure stormwater flow and quality must
be calibrated to ensure their accuracy.
F. Any temporary or permanent obstruction to safe and easy access to the facility to be inspected or sampled must be promptly removed by the operator at the written
or oral request of the department and may not be replaced. The cost of clearing such access is borne by the operator.
G. Unreasonable delay in allowing the department access to a permitted facility is a violation of a stormwater discharge permit and of this chapter. A person who is the
operator of a facility with an MPDES permit to discharge stormwater associated with industrial activity commits an offense if the person denies the department
reasonable access to the permitted facility for the purpose of conducting any activity authorized or required by this chapter.
H. If the department has been refused access to any part of the premises from which stormwater is discharged, and it is able to demonstrate probable cause to believe
that there may be a violation of this chapter, or that there is a need to inspect or sample as part of a routine inspection and sampling program designed to verify
compliance with this chapter or any order issued hereunder, or to protect the overall public health, safety, and welfare of the community, then the city may seek
issuance of a court order from any court of competent jurisdiction. (Ord. 3120, 12-21-2009)
6-6-15: DEVELOPMENT AND REDEVELOPMENT ACTIVITY AND POSTCONSTRUCTION STORMWATER CONTROL:
A. A construction activity stormwater permit is required for construction activity that disturbs one acre or more, including projects disturbing less than one acre that are
part of a larger common plan of development, redevelopment, or sale. A permit may only be issued subsequent to a properly submitted and reviewed permit
application, pursuant to this section.
B. An owner or developer of land required to obtain a construction activity stormwater permit must submit an executed copy of the state standard notice of intent
("NOI") and a stormwater pollution prevention plan prepared and stamped by a licensed professional engineer prior to performing any construction activity.
C. A construction activity stormwater permit will require erosion and sediment controls through the design, installation, and construction of stormwater management
and control practices on the permitted construction site including structural BMPs and elements of site design for construction stormwater management other than
structural BMPs.
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D. The permittee is required to perform regularly scheduled construction activity site inspections at least every fourteen (14) calendar days and within twenty four (24)
hours of a precipitation event to ensure that all BMPs have been constructed and are functioning properly. The permittee must document all inspections in writing
and make inspection records available to the department for review.
E. Commencement of construction work on development or redevelopment projects that disturbs one acre or more, including projects disturbing less than one acre that
are part of a larger common plan of development, may not begin until such time as a permit is issued and final approval of the drainage plan if required below is
obtained in accordance with this chapter.
F. Any person subject to a construction activity MPDES stormwater discharge permit shall comply with all provisions of such permit. Proof of compliance with said
permit may be required in a form acceptable to the department prior to the allowing of discharges to the MS4.
G. In order to address postconstruction stormwater runoff, all owners or developers of property that are required to submit a drainage plan shall provide the stormwater
facilities necessary for the drainage and control of flood and surface waters within stormwater basins and shall provide the facilities required to convey such waters
from the stormwater basin to major drainageways. The cost of installing stormwater facilities in the service area is charged in whole or in part against the property in
the service area.
H. All owners or developers applying for any of the following permits or approvals shall submit a drainage plan for approval, prepared and stamped by a professional
engineer, with the application or request:
1. Major subdivision plat approval;
2. Minor subdivision plat approval;
3. Building permits where the impervious development coverage within the property is five thousand (5,000) or more square feet, or where development is in an
area critical to the functioning of the MS4 as determined by the department; and
4. Planned unit development (PUD).
I. The same plan submitted during one permit or approval process may be subsequently submitted with other required applications. The plan must be supplemented
with such additional information as may be requested by the department.
J. The drainage plan requirement established in this section applies except when the owner or developer demonstrates to the satisfaction of the department that the
proposed use of the property:
1. Will neither seriously nor adversely impact the water quality conditions of any affected receiving bodies of water;
2. Will not alter the surface discharge location, alter the drainage pattern on adjoining properties, alter drainage patterns, increase the discharge, or cause any other
adverse effects in the drainage area; and
3. Will not alter the subsurface drainage patterns, flow rates and discharge points, or result in any significant adverse effects to property or residents.
K. Drainage plans shall be prepared by a certified engineer in accordance with current hydraulic hydrology practices and hydrology design standards and shall be
consistent with the storm drain master plan. Drainage plans shall consist of drainage calculations and mitigation of stormwater drainage and include contour lines as
necessary and explicitly describe the stormwater drainage system, including any required detention areas.
L. All required storm drainage plans must be submitted for review by and approval of the department. At the time of approval of the drainage plan for the subject
property, a schedule for inspection of required construction and facilities will be established by the department. (Ord. 3120, 12-21-2009)
6-6-16: CREDIT FOR CONSTRUCTION OF STORM DRAINAGE FACILITIES:
If the department requires an owner or developer to construct stormwater facilities that serve more than that development and are identified in the storm drain master
plan, a portion of the actual costs incurred may be eligible for credit from the city's stormwater drainage assessment. To be eligible for credit, prior to final approval of
the development agreement, the owner or developer must submit a report to the stormwater utility detailing the proposed improvements and obtain the city's approval
of the report. The report must identify all elements of the project eligible for credit and include a detailed project description, a project bid form with estimated quantities,
unit prices, engineering design and construction management costs. The report also must provide an accurate quantity and cost delineation between the proposed
stormwater improvements necessary to meet the standard requirements of the development. The books and records of the owner or developer relating to the
stormwater facilities for which the utility is providing reimbursement must be open to the city at all reasonable times for the purpose of auditing or verifying costs. The
department will recommend inclusion of the cost of improvements eligible for credit in the next available budget submitted to the city commission. Upon approval and
appropriation by the city commission, such costs will be credited from the storm drainage fund. (Ord. 3120, 12-21-2009)
6-6-17: RESPONSIBILITY FOR ACCEPTED STORMWATER FACILITIES:
All stormwater facilities constructed, installed, or provided hereunder, upon acceptance by the city, are the property of the city and thereafter the city is responsible for
the operation and maintenance of the facilities. The city shall maintain all accepted public stormwater facilities located within city owned land, city rights of way and city
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easements. (Ord. 3120, 12-21-2009)
6-6-18: RESPONSIBILITY FOR PRIVATE STORM DRAINAGE FACILITIES:
Property owners who install private storm drainage facilities that are not connected to the MS4 and not accepted by the city are required to perform maintenance of all
private storm drainage facilities to ensure that those facilities function as designed. (Ord. 3120, 12-21-2009)
6-6-19: APPLICABILITY TO GOVERNMENTAL ENTITIES:
All governmental entities are required to submit a drainage plan and comply with the terms of this chapter when developing or improving land including, but not limited
to, road construction and reconstruction and other improvements that can affect stormwater runoff within the city. (Ord. 3120, 12-21-2009)
6-6-20: REQUIREMENT TO USE BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES:
The department will adopt requirements identifying BMPs for any activity, operation, or facility which may cause or contribute to pollution or contamination of
stormwater, the storm drain system, or waters of the U.S. The owner or operator of a commercial or industrial establishment shall provide, at the owner's own expense,
reasonable protection from the accidental discharge of prohibited materials or other wastes into the MS4 or watercourses through the use of these structural and
nonstructural BMPs. Further, any person responsible for a property or premises that is or may be the source of an illegal discharge, may be required to implement, at
said person's expense, additional structural and nonstructural BMPs to prevent the further discharge of pollutants to the municipal separate storm sewer system.
Compliance with all terms and conditions of a valid MPDES permit authorizing the discharge of stormwater associated with industrial activity, to the extent practicable,
is deemed compliance with the provisions of this section. Adopted BMPs shall be part of a stormwater pollution prevention plan (SWPPP) as necessary for compliance
with requirements of the MPDES permit. (Ord. 3120, 12-21-2009)
6-6-21: NOTIFICATION OF SPILLS:
Notwithstanding other requirements of law, as soon as any person responsible for a facility or operation, or responsible for emergency response for a facility or
operation has information of any known or suspected release of materials which are resulting or may result in illegal discharges or pollutants discharging into
stormwater, the storm drain system, or waters of the U.S. that person shall take all necessary steps to ensure the discovery, containment, and cleanup of such release.
In the event of such a release of hazardous materials that person shall immediately notify emergency response agencies of the occurrence via emergency dispatch
services. In the event of a release of nonhazardous materials, said person shall notify the department in person or by phone, electronic mail, or facsimile no later than
the next business day. Notification in person or by phone must be confirmed by written notice addressed and mailed to the department within three (3) business days of
the phone notice. If the discharge of prohibited materials emanates from a commercial or industrial establishment, the owner or operator of such establishment shall
also retain an on site written record of the discharge and the actions taken to prevent its recurrence. Such records must be retained for at least three (3) years. (Ord.
3120, 12-21-2009)
6-6-22: MANAGEMENT OF MUNICIPAL SEPARATE STORMWATER SYSTEM:
A. The purpose of the stormwater utility rates and charges established by the city commission is to generate sufficient revenue to pay all costs for the operation,
maintenance, administration and routine functions of the existing MS4 and the operation, maintenance and administration of such future storm drainage facilities as
may be established within or without the service area and to pay for the review of drainage plans, and the design, right of way acquisition and construction or
reconstruction of stormwater facilities. All of the proceeds are deemed to be in payment for use of the city stormwater system.
B. The department shall determine the total annual cost of operation and maintenance of the stormwater system. The total annual cost of operation and maintenance
includes, but is not limited to, labor, repairs, equipment replacement, maintenance, necessary modifications, power, sampling, laboratory tests and a reasonable
contingency fund. Capital improvement priorities are determined by the city commission, and utility rates shall be passed in the same manner as all other special
assessments. All assessments are set by resolution after public hearing.
C. The city may assess a user fee upon all assessable property within the service area. This charge must appear on yearly property tax statements distributed by the
county or by individual billing where necessary. The property owner shall pay the fee directly to the county and the county shall then pay the city the fee in the same
manner as all other special fees and assessments. The city reserves the right to pursue further legal action to remedy nonpayment. Nonpayment constitutes a lien
on the property, as are other taxes and assessments, in accordance with state law.
D. The rates, charges, and rentals are deemed prima facie fair, reasonable, and equitable. In any case where any contention is made that the rates are unfair,
inequitable, or unreasonable, the party objecting thereto shall apply to the city, stating the facts and grounds of the complaint, and the city shall investigate and
report with recommendations to the city commission. The city shall consider each and every such complaint and report, and communicate such findings in respect
thereto to the city commission within one month after the filing of each such complaint. The city commission has the right to order public hearings as to any such
matter and, if convinced that an adjustment of stormwater utility rates or charges for such lot or parcel of land is necessary to provide equality with those charged to
others, it shall so provide. (Ord. 3120, 12-21-2009)
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6-6-23: VIOLATIONS AND CIVIL ENFORCEMENT:
A. Whenever the department finds that a person has violated a prohibition or failed to meet a requirement of this chapter, the department may order compliance by
written notice of violation to the responsible person. Such notice may require without limitation:
1. The performance of monitoring, analyses, and reporting;
2. The elimination of illegal connections or discharges;
3. That violating discharges, practices, or operations shall cease and desist;
4. The abatement or remediation of stormwater pollution or contamination hazards and the restoration of any affected property;
5. Payment of restitution for remediation costs;
6. The implementation of source control or treatment BMPs; and
7. The cessation of any construction or postconstruction work not permitted according to this chapter.
B. If abatement of a violation or restoration of affected property is required, the notice will set forth a deadline within which such remediation or restoration must be
completed. Said notice will further advise that, should the violator fail to remediate or restore within the established deadline, the work may be done by the city and
the expense thereof may be levied against the real property of the violator.
C. If the violation has not been corrected pursuant to the requirements set forth in the notice of violation, then the department may enter upon the subject private
property and is authorized to take any and all measures necessary to abate the violation or restore the property. The total cost thereof may be assessed against the
real property of the violator in the same manner as a property tax. It is unlawful for any person, owner, agent or person in possession of any premises to refuse to
allow the department or designated contractor to enter upon the premises for the purposes set forth above. (Ord. 3120, 12-21-2009)
6-6-24: VIOLATIONS AND CRIMINAL ENFORCEMENT:
Violations of this chapter may also subject the violator to a fine in any sum not to exceed five hundred dollars ($500.00), or imprisonment in the county jail for a period
not to exceed thirty (30) days, or both such fine and imprisonment. The department may recover all attorney fees, court costs, and other expenses associated with
enforcement of this chapter, including sampling and monitoring expenses. (Ord. 3120, 12-21-2009)
6-6-25: INJUNCTIVE RELIEF:
It is unlawful for any person to violate any provision or fail to comply with any of the requirements of this chapter. If a person has violated or continues to violate the
provisions of this chapter, the city may petition for a preliminary or permanent injunction restraining the person from activities which would create further violations or
compelling the person to perform abatement or remediation of the violation. (Ord. 3120, 12-21-2009)
6-6-26: REMEDIES NOT EXCLUSIVE:
The remedies listed in this chapter are not exclusive of any other remedies available under any applicable federal or state law, and it is within the discretion of the city
to seek cumulative remedies. (Ord. 3120, 12-21-2009)
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Enforcement Response Plan for
Stormwater Management Template Page 1
ENFORCEMENT RESPONSE PLAN FOR STORMWATER MANAGEMENT WITHIN
THE CITY OFHELENA, MONTANA
December 2018
Introduction
In accordance with the General Permit for Storm Water Discharge Associated with Small Municipal
Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4), issued by the Montana Department of Environmental Quality
(DEQ), the City of Helena is required to develop and implement an Enforcement Response Plan (ERP) to
ensure compliance with stormwater regulations. The purpose of this ERP is to specify criteria by which
City personnel can determine the enforcement action most appropriate to instances of non-compliance
and communicate how the enforcement tools available to City personnel will be used to achieve
compliance following violations of the City’s stormwater regulations. This document addresses the
Montana DEQ MS4 General Permit’s ERP requirements for the following Minimum Control Measures
(MCM’s):
MCM 4: Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination
MCM 5: Construction Site Storm Water Management
MCM 6: Post-Construction Site Storm Water Management in New and Redevelopment
The procedures within this ERP have been developed with the following objectives in mind:
Prevent pollutants from entering the MS4 and causing environmental harm.
Communicate definitions for non-compliance.
Establish appropriate enforcement action based on the nature and severity of the violation.
Promote consistent and timely use of enforcement tools.
Ensure that violators return to compliance in a timely manner.
Recover costs incurred by the City due to operator non-compliance.
Promote compliance through education and compliance assistance first and, if necessary,
penalties second.
The City of Helena has the authority to enforce stormwater regulations under Title 6: Public Utilities,
Chapter 6: Stormwater Control of its municipal code which covers:
Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination under 6-6-10
Construction Site Storm Water management under 6-6-15
Post-Construction Site Storm Water Management under 6-6-15
Enforcement under 6-6-24
A complete copy of the City Code regulating stormwater is included in Appendix I of the Storm Water
Management Plan.
Acronyms
The following acronyms shall have the following meaning:
DEQ Department of Environmental Quality
ERP Enforcement Response Plan
MCM Minimum Control Measure
MS4 Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System
NOV Notice of Violation
SWO Stop Work Order
1. Enforcement Response Plan Overview
The enforcement process consists of six basic steps beginning with identification of a violation and
concluding with closing the complaint. The overall process is shown within the flowchart below and is
further explained within the following sections.
Enforcement Response Flowchart for the
City of Helena Stormwater Management Program
Identify &
Document the
Violation
Determine
Appropriate
Level of
Response
Select &
Implement
Appropriate
Res
p
onse
Compliance
Achieved?
Close Complaint
Follow up
Call/Visit
Y
es
No
2. Determining the Appropriate Level of Response
Once a potential violation is identified, the appropriate level of response should be determined and an
appropriate response remedy should then be selected. The City has five levels of responses, each of
which is briefly described below.
2.1 Level 1: No Enforcement Action
There may be situations where city personnel are made aware of a potential violation; however,
sufficient evidence does not exist to prove a violation is taking place. An example of such situation
may be if a complaint is received stating that a private stormwater control has not been properly
maintained; however, after a brief site inspection and/or verbal discussion, the City staff determines
the stormwater control is within compliance and no enforcement action is required. In such situations
the potential violation and response should be documented using the Enforcement Response
Documentation Form (Attachment A) so that it can be referenced in the future, if necessary.
2.2 Level 2: Informal Response
The City will pursue compliance to stormwater violations through informal methods whenever
reasonable. Informal responses include telephone notification, verbal notice or meeting These
methods are appropriate for situations where education is needed, violations do not pose a significant
threat to human health or the environment, or the City believes that compliance can be achieved
without the use of formal measures. In addition, implementation of informal measures often
establishes the documentation necessary to implement formal enforcement actions if informal
measures do not result in compliance.
i.) Telephone Notification/Verbal Notice
A telephone notification or verbal notice will be used to obtain additional information
pertaining to a potential violation or to resolve an infrequent violation. The initial contact will
take place within 24 hours of determining a potential violation. At a minimum, the
conversation shall be documented with the following information: date/time call placed, the
City staff member who initiated contact, the person contacted (responsible party), and the
content of the conversation.
ii.) Meetings
A meeting will be requested with the responsible party when necessary to implement clean
up. The meeting will serve to educate the responsible party regarding the violation and to
discuss measures which shall be taken to correct the violation. The meeting will be
conducted by Storm Water Coordinator or Utility Maintenance Supervisor. At a minimum, the
meeting shall be documented with the following information: meeting location, date/time of
meeting, meeting attendees, content of the conversation, and agreements made at the
meeting.
2.3 Level 3: Civil Enforcement
As allowed by City Ordinance: Whenever the City of Helena finds that a person has violated a
prohibition or failed to meet a requirement of the Helena Stormwater Control Chapter, the City of
Helena may order compliance by written notice of violation to the responsible person. Such notice
may require without limitation:
1. The performance of monitoring, analyses, and reporting;
2. The elimination of illegal connections or discharges;
3. That violating discharges, practices, or operations shall cease and desist;
4. The abatement or remediation of stormwater pollution or contamination hazards and the restoration
of any affected property;
5. Payment of restitution for remediation costs;
6. The implementation of source control or treatment BMPs; and
7. The cessation of any construction or postconstruction work not permitted according to this chapter.
B. If abatement of a violation or restoration of affected property is required, the notice will set forth a
deadline within which such remediation or restoration must be completed. Said notice will further
advise that, should the violator fail to remediate or restore within the established deadline, the work
may be done by the city and the expense thereof may be levied against the real property of the
violator.
C. If the violation has not been corrected pursuant to the requirements set forth in the notice of
violation, then the department may enter upon the subject private property and is authorized to take
any and all measures necessary to abate the violation or restore the property. The total cost thereof
may be assessed against the real property of the violator in the same manner as a property tax. It is
unlawful for any person, owner, agent or person in possession of any premises to refuse to allow the
department or designated contractor to enter upon the premises for the purposes set forth above.
(Ord. 3120, 12-21-2009)
i.) Administrative Order
An administrative order is a formal enforcement document which requires the responsible
party to either cease the specified activity or implement specified corrective measures. An
administrative order will be issued when informal remedies have been pursued and have not
resulted in compliance.
ii.) Notice of Violation
A NOV is an official communication from the City to the responsible party which informs the
party that a violation has occurred. It will be issued for relatively minor or infrequent violations
of the City’s stormwater ordinances and requirements. It is a prompt response to violations
and documents the initial attempts of the City to resolve the violation.
The NOV will include the following information: the specific violation, photos (if possible),
timeframe and actions required to return to compliance, and a warning that further
enforcement action may be taken for failure to comply.
NOV's shall be sent via certified mail/return receipt or hand delivered and signed by the
responsible party within 10 working days after discovery of the violation.
iii.) Stop Work Order
A SWO is applicable to construction site stormwater management violations. It is a notice
which informs the construction site operator that a stormwater management violation is
ongoing and work is not allowed to continue until the matter is resolved. The SWO will be
issued for failure to comply with a NOV or for significant violations of the City’s construction
site stormwater requirements that require immediate action. The SWO will include the
following information: the specific violation, contact information for the City personnel who
must be contacted to discuss required remediation procedures, the timeframe for which the
City must be contacted to discuss the situation, and a warning which notifies the site operator
that failure to comply will result in formal enforcement actions.
iv.) Compliance Schedule
A compliance schedule directs the responsible party to address the violation and restore
compliance by a specified date. A compliance schedule will be issued when clean up does
not occur within 10 business days of the date of the NOV. The schedule will include the
following: the specific violation, noncompliance (document the City’s previous attempts to
achieve compliance), state required actions to be completed by the responsible party, and
the dates by which the actions must be completed to return to compliance.
Note that issuance of a compliance schedule does not necessarily relieve the responsible
party of having to meet any existing stormwater control commitments, nor protect the
responsible party from having additional fines levied for other violations during the
compliance schedule period.
v.) Monetary Penalty
As allowed by City Ordinace The originator of any hazardous material spill or introduction is
responsible for the material, and shall pay all applicable investigation and cleanup costs,
including the cost of equipment, materials, staff time with fringes, and consultant charges.
2.4 Level 4: Violations and Criminal Enforcement
As allowed by City Ordinance: Violations of this chapter may also subject the violator to a fine in any
sum not to exceed five hundred dollars ($500.00), or imprisonment in the county jail for a period not
to exceed thirty (30) days, or both such fine and imprisonment. The department may recover all
attorney fees, court costs, and other expenses associated with enforcement of this chapter, including
sampling and monitoring expenses. (Ord. 3120, 12-21-2009)
i.) Civil Penalties
If necessary, a civil suit will be used to recover costs borne by the City in responding to the
responsible party’s noncompliance.
ii.) Criminal Penalties
Criminal prosecution is a formal process of charging the responsible party with violations of
ordinance provisions that are punishable, upon conviction, by fines and/or imprisonment.
2.5 Additional Considerations
The following criteria will be considered to aid in determining the correct level of response:
i.) Magnitude
A minor isolated instance of non-compliance will typically be considered non-significant and
addressed with informal responses; however, isolated incidents which may cause damage to
the MS4 or pose a threat to human health and/or the environment will be considered
significant and necessitate a formal enforcement action.
ii.) Duration
Regardless of magnitude, violations which continue over prolonged periods of time will result
in escalated enforcement actions.
iii.) Compliance History
The responsible party’s compliance history will be an important factor in determining the
appropriate remedy to apply. The City has the authority to issue informal notices for the less
severe violation if the responsible party has a good compliance history; however, recurring
violations may lead the City to escalate the level of response in a shorter time-frame than
usual.
iv.) Good Faith of the Operator
Good Faith is a characteristic of actions which show that the responsible party is intending to
achieve compliance in a timely manner. If the responsible party is attempting in good faith to
correct the violation the City’s enforcement responses may be less severe; however, potential
threats to human health and the environment will always take precedence when considering
whether or not to base the City’s level of response on the good faith of the responsible party.
In addition, while the responsible party’s good faith in correcting its noncompliance may be a
factor in determining which enforcement response is suitable, good faith does not preclude
the responsible party from enforcement action.
3. Notification of Spills
Notwithstanding other requirements of law, as soon as any person responsible for a facility or operation,
or responsible for emergency response for a facility or operation has information of any known or
suspected release of materials which are resulting or may result in illegal discharges or pollutants
discharging into stormwater, the storm drain system, or waters of the U.S. that person shall take all
necessary steps to ensure the discovery, containment, and cleanup of such release. In the event of such
a release of hazardous materials that person shall immediately notify emergency response agencies of
the occurrence via emergency dispatch services. In the event of a release of nonhazardous materials,
said person shall notify the department in person or by phone, electronic mail, or facsimile no later than
the next business day. Notification in person or by phone must be confirmed by written notice addressed
and mailed to the department within three (3) business days of the phone notice. If the discharge of
prohibited materials emanates from a commercial or industrial establishment, the owner or operator of
such establishment shall also retain an on-site written record of the discharge and the actions taken to
prevent its recurrence. Such records must be retained for at least three (3) years.
(Ord.3120, 12-21-2009)
4. Enforcement Roles and Responsibilities
All significant violations and the responses shall be reported to the Storm Water Coordinator or Utility
Maintenance Supervisor and the Public Works Director. The Public Works Director and City Attorney will
be copied on all formal Enforcement Responses. The Public Works Director will consult with the City
Attorney and City Administrator in Judicial Actions.
Glossary of Terms
Administrative Fine - A monetary penalty assessed by the City to the responsible party for a violation of
the City’s stormwater management requirements.
Administrative Order - A formal enforcement document which requires the responsible party to either
cease the specified activity or implement specified corrective measures.
Compliance Schedule - A schedule of required activities necessary for a responsible party to achieve
compliance with specified stormwater program requirements.
Consent Decree - An agreement between the City and the responsible party reached after a lawsuit has
been filed.
Criminal Prosecution - A formal process of charging the responsible party with violations of ordinance
provisions that are punishable, upon conviction, by fines and/or imprisonment.
Good Faith Effort - A characteristic of actions which show that the responsible party is intending to
achieve compliance in a timely manner.
Injunctive Relief - A court order which directs the responsible party to cease a specified action or
behavior.
Judicial Action - An enforcement action that involves a court. (The action may either be civil or criminal
in nature).
Notice of Violation - An official communication from the City to the responsible party which informs the
party that a violation has occurred.
Responsible Party – The person or organization responsible for a violation.
ATTACHMENT A
ENFORCEMENT RESPONSE DOCUMENTATION FORM
City Personnel Involved
Date
Description of Violation
Location of Violation (address)
( ) -
Responsible Party Telephone
Street City Zip
Description of Violation:
Level of Response Selected Remedy Date for Follow-Up
Additional Notes:
HighPriorityOutfallsfortheCityofHelena
Outfall
No.
Drainage
Basin
OutfallBMP
Outfall
Conveyance
StreetLocation
3
HendersonRetentionPondComplex
24inch
SilsbeeAveandMitchellnear
Fairgrounds
24inch
4 FairgroundsDetentionPond 16inch FairgroundseastofArena
5 NorthStoneMeadowsDetentionPond 8inch AndesiteAveandcrystalspringscreek
6 CentralStoneMeadowsDetentionPond 10inch BentonAveandFlagstoneAve
7 SouthStoneMeadowsDetentionPond 8Inch BentonAvesouthofObsidianAve
8 CrystalSpringsDetentionPond OpenChannel BentonandWillowbrook
9 CountyShopDetentionBasin OpenChannel EofNBentonandWillowbrookDrive
VT
VT
VT
VT
VT
VT
VT
VT
VT
VT
VT
VT
VT
VT
VT
Source: Esri, DigitalGlobe, GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics, CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AEX, Getmapping, Aerogrid, IGN, IGP, swisstopo, and the GIS
User Community
PATH: G:\PROJECTS\HELENA_CITY_OF\SWMP 2017\MAP_DOCS\FIGURE A.5_PRIORITY DRAINAGE BASINS MAP.MXD - USER: SSAVAGE - DATE: 12/21/2016
PRIORITY DRAINAGE BASINS MAP
FIGURE A.5
CITY OF HELENA, MT
CITY OF HELENA STORM WATER MANAGEMENT PLAN (DECEMBER 2016)
0 1,500
Feet
O
DATA SOURCE: (ESRI, City of Helena)
LEGEND
Regional Pond
VT
Existing Outfall
Storm Drain
City Limits
Tenmile Creek
Crystal Springs
Creek
Priority Drainage Basin
1
Overlook Pond
Allison Pond
Henderson Pond
Nature Park Pond
Kmart Ponds
4
3
8
9
7
6
5
10
11
12
13
14
15
2
Simmons Pond
Helena Valley
Irrigation Canal
Specific to Traditional MS4s and per requirements f.iii in the referenced MCM, attach the summary
of investigations conducted and corrective actions taken per the required Illicit Discharge
Investigation and Corrective Action Plan and any associated documents.
Noillicitdischargeswerereportedordetectedduring2018.
MCM5
POSTCONSTRUCTIONSITESTORMWATERMANAGMENT
Post-Construction Stormwater
Management Control Inspection Form
Template Page 1
POST-CONSTRUCTION STORMWATER MANAGEMENT CONTROL INSPECTION FORM
General Information
Site Name (if Applicable):
Type of Control:
Location:
Site Owner:
Phone Number:
Responsible Party:
Phone Number:
Date of Inspection: Start/End Time:
Inspector’s Name: Inspectors Title:
Inspector’s Contact Information (phone):
Type of Inspection:
Routine, Dry Weather Routine, Wet Weather Complaint Response
Other ________________
Weather Information
Weather at time of this inspection:
Clear Cloudy Raining Sleet Fog Snowing High Winds
Other: Temperature:
Do you suspect that any physical changes or damages to the stormwater management control may
have occurred since the last inspection?
Yes No
Are there any stormwater discharges at the time of inspection? Yes No
If yes, provide location(s) and a description of stormwater discharged from the site (presence of
suspended sediment, turbid water, discoloration and/or oil sheen, odor, etc)
Prohibited Discharges
Are there any prohibited discharges at the time of inspection and/or any signs of prohibited discharges
since the last inspection? Yes No
If yes, provide location(s) and a description:
Post-Construction Stormwater
Management Control Inspection Form
Template Page 2
Desired Conditions Findings
Corrective Action Needed
& Notes
1 There is no excessive sediment
deposition.
Yes
No
N/A
2 Slopes are well stabilized and are
not contributing sediment to the
stormwater management control.
Yes
No
N/A
3 There is no scour in swales or other
vegetated areas.
Yes
No
N/A
4 Trash racks, inlets, outlets, and low
flow orifices are clear of trash,
debris, and sediment.
Yes
No
N/A
5 There is no woody vegetation
impeding the performance of any
structural component of the
stormwater management control.
Yes
No
N/A
6 Outfall structures do not show signs
of settling, cracking, bulging,
misalignment or other structural
deterioration.
Yes
No
N/A
7 Embankments, emergency
spillways, side slopes or inlet/outlet
structures show no signs of erosion.
Yes
No
N/A
8 Pipes going into and/or out of any
stormwater management control are
unclogged and unobstructed.
Yes
No
N/A
9 There is no evidence of animal
burrows.
Yes
No
N/A
10 There is no trash or debris in the
stormwater management control.
Yes
No
N/A
11 There are no encroachments on the
stormwater management control.
Yes
No
N/A
Post-Construction Stormwater
Management Control Inspection Form
Template Page 3
Desired Conditions Findings
Corrective Action Needed
& Notes
12 All necessary repairs to safety
devices such as fences, gates,
covers or locks are complete.
Yes
No
N/A
13 There is not excessive algae or
vegetation in the pond/ditch.
Yes
No
N/A
14 The ground surface stabilization is
retaining any highly erosive or
unstable soils, seed germination is
being properly facilitated, and any
netting or blankets are properly
fastened to obtain full contact with
the ground.
Yes
No
N/A
15 Stormwater control appears to be
functioning properly.
Yes
No
N/A
16 Are there locations where additional
stormwater management controls
appear to be necessary?
Yes
No
N/A
17 (Other) Yes
No
N/A
Describe any incidents of non-compliance or need for maintenance not described above:
Follow-up inspection required? Yes No
Inspector’s Signature
Date
The City of Helena uses a GIS database to record all new post-construction storm water controls.
Following is summary of 2018 activity:
Inventory of all new permittee-owned post-construction storm water management
controls
None in 2018
Inventory of all private post-construction storm water management controls.
Winco - storm water pond and storm pipe
Bryant School - storm water quality pond and LID facilities
Central School – storm water quality pond and storm pipe
Willowbrook Apartments – storm water retention ponds
Post-Construction Stormwater Controls
Inspection Frequency Determination Template Page 1
CITY OF HELENA
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
ENGINEERING DIVISION
POST-CONSTRUCTION STORMWATER MANAGEMENT CONTROL
INSPECTION FREQUENCY DETERMINATION PROTOCOL
Criteria Rating System
INSPECTION
FREQUENCY
Pre-determined priority of the control
Non High-Priority Per below
High-Priority Annually
Proximity to a surface water
Drains to a regional storm water
pond
Complaint based
Drains overland and through storm
system prior to MS4 outfall
Every 5 years
Discharges to a waterbody
Annually
Drainage Area Treated
Up to 10 acres
per this table
Greater than 10 acres
Every 5 years
Type of Facility
City owned priority stormwater pond
Annually
City owned regional stormwater
pond
Every 5 years
Private regionals storm water pond
Every 5 years
Private storm water pond serving
one lot
Complaint based
HighPriorityandRegionalPostConstructionStormWaterManagementControls(PCSWMC)
Regional
Watershed
MS4
Drainage
Basin
HighPriority
PCSWMC
(AnnualInspection)
RegionalPCSWMC MS4OutfallBasin
PricklyPear
Creek
BullRun
and
Airport
Yes AirportRetentionR910 OutfalltoBullRun
BullRun
Area
CrossroadsDetention R910
AspenMeadowsDetention R910
JeanetteRankinDetention R910
AspenMeadowsRetention R910
AirportDetentio nPond2 R910
Hunter’sPointDetention R910
MountainWestBankDetention R910
NobHillRetentionPond1 R910
NobHillRetentionPond2 R910
NobHillDetentionPond1 R910
NicholeStreetDetention R910
NobHillDetention4 R910
HelenaRegionalDetention OutfalltoBullRun
FarEast
Area
Yes AspenMeadowsRetentionPond3 OutfalltoFarEast
Yes AspenMeadowsDetentionPond4 OutfalltoFarEast
Yes AspenMeadowsDetentionPond5 AspenMeadowsDetentionPond4
Davis
Gulch
Yes DavisGulchPond OutfalltoDavisGulch
Yes KmartPond DavisGulchPond
DNRCPond DavisGulchPond
HelenaHighPond DavisGulchPond
Tenmile
Creek
Last
Chance
Gulch
Yes NatureParkPond OutfalltoLastChanceGulch
Westside
Area
Yes OverlookPond OutfalltoSpringMeadowsPonds
Yes SimmonsPond OutfalltoSpringMeadowsPonds
Yes HendersonPond OutfalltoSpringCreek
Yes AllisonStreetPond HendersonPond
Simmons Pond
Overlook Pond
Henderson Pond
Allison Pond
Nature Park Pond
Davis Gulch Ponds
Kmart Ponds
Helena Regional Detention
Airport Retention
R-910
Aspen Meadows
Retention Pond
Aspen Meadows
Retention 3 Pond
Aspen Meadows
Retention 4 & 5
Ponds
Source: Esri, DigitalGlobe, GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics, CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AEX, Getmapping, Aerogrid, IGN, IGP, swisstopo, and the GIS
User Community
PATH: G:\PROJECTS\HELENA_CITY_OF\SWMP 2017\MAP_DOCS\FIGURE A.2_REGIONAL STORM WATER PONDS & TREATMENT B ASINS MAP.MXD - USER: SSAVAGE - DATE: 12/21/2016
REGIONAL STORM WATER PONDS & TREATMENT BASINS MAP
FIGURE A.2
CITY OF HELENA, MT
CITY OF HELENA STORM WATER MANAGEMENT PLAN (DECEMBER 2016)
0 0.50.25
Miles
O
DATA SOURCE: (ESRI, City of Helena)
LEGEND
Regional Pond
Storm Drain
City Limits
Nature Park
Regional Pond Basin
Davis Gulch
Regional Pond Basin
Airport Retention R-910
Regional Pond Basin
Overlook Regional
Pond Basin
Henderson
Regional Pond Basin
Aspen Meadows Retention
Regional Pond Basin
Simmons Regional
Pond Basin
Aspen Meadows Retention 3
Regional Pond Basin
Aspen Meadows Retention
4 & 5 Regional Pond Basin
Tenmile Creek
Prickly Pear Creek
Helena Detention
Regional Pond Basin
WWTP Effluent Canal
Helena Valley
Irrigation Canal
MCM6
POLLUTIONPREVENTIONANDGOODHOUSEKEEPING
Minimum Control Measure 6: Pollution
Prevention/Good Housekeeping for Permittee
Operations
The City of Helena (City) operates and maintains permittee owned facilities and conducts activities
including training with the intent of reducing pollutant runoff from permittee operations, and ultimately
from its MS4 outfalls. Under MCM 6, the General Permit requires permittees to develop and
implement an operation and maintenance program that has three primary components:
An inventory of permittee owned/operated facilities and activities that have the potential to
release contaminants to the MS4.
Standard operating procedures (SOPs) for facilities and activities that identify storm water
pollution prevention controls to be installed, implemented and/or maintained to minimize the
discharge of pollutants.
A program to conduct annual storm water pollution prevention training for all permittee staff
directly involved with implementing SOPs.
The following sections describe the City’s approach to addressing the General Permit’s Pollution
Prevention/Good Housekeeping requirements.
1.0 Inventory of Permittee Owned/Operated Facilities and
Activities
In accordance with Part II.A.6.a.i of the MS4 General Permit, this section provides an inventory of
the City’s facilities and activities that have the potential to release contaminants to the MS4.
1.1 Facility Inventory
The City’s facilities are separated into two categories, Tier 1 and Tier 2 facilities.
Tier 1 facilities have an increased potential to release contaminants to the MS4 due to the
type of pollutants generated or stored at these facilities (e.g., oils, hazardous materials, etc.).
Examples of Tier 1 facilities include waste handling areas and vehicle fleet maintenance
areas. Tier 1 facilities are identified in Table 1. The City has developed facility-specific storm
water pollution prevention SOPs for these facilities.
Tier 2 facilities have less potential to release contaminants to the MS4 due to the decreased
risk of exposure associated with activities taking place at these facilities. Examples of Tier 2
facilities include parks and parking lots. A summary of tier 2 facilities is provided in Table 2
and a comprehensive list is provided in Table A-1 (Appendix A). The City has developed
activity-based storm water pollution prevent SOPs for these facilities (the type of activities
being conducted at each Tier 2 facility will govern which SOP(s) are to be implemented).
A map that shows locations of City facilities is provided in Appendix A.
Table 1: Tier 1 City Facilities that have the Potential to Release Contaminants to the MS4
Facility Information
Person Responsible for Pollution
Prevention
Potential Contaminants
Name Address Name Title
Sediment
Nutrients
1
Trash
Metals
Bacteria
Oil, Grease, Fuel
Organics
Pesticides/Herbicides
Hazardous Waste
2
Wastewater Treatment
Facility
2218 E Custer Ave Mark Fitzwater Supervisor X X X X X
Solid Waste Transfer
Station
1975 N Benton Ave Pete Anderson Superintendent X X X X XXXXX
Utility Maintenance Shop 2218 E Custer Ave Kevin Hart Superintendent X X X
Sanitation Storage 3001 East Lyndale Ave Pete Anderson Superintendent X X X X X
Vehicle Maintenance 3001 East Lyndale Ave David Knoepke Superintendent X X X
Capital Transit
1415 North Montana
Ave
Elroy Goleman Superintendent X X X
Parks Maintenance Shop 1201 N Ewing St Craig Marr Superintendent X X XXXX
Missouri River Water
Treatment Plant
2560 Canyon Ferry Rd Jason Fladland Supervisor X X X
Ten Mile Water Treatment
Plant
1115 Rimini Rd Jason Fladland Supervisor X X X
Fire Department 300 Neill Ave Mark Emert Fire Chief X X X
1
Nutrients in runoff are typically nitrogen and phosphorus pollutants from fertilizers, pet, and yard waste
2
Hazardous waste is typically any biological, chemical, or physical material that are potentially harmful to human
health or the environment. Examples include antifreeze, householder cleaners, and paints.
Table 2. Tier 2 Facility Summary
Facility Information
Person Responsible for Pollution
Prevention
Potential Contaminants
Facility Type Department Name Title
Sediment
Nutrients
Trash
Metals
Bacteria
Oil, Grease, Fuel
Organics
Pesticides/Herbicides
Hazardous Waste
Building Community Facilities Troy Sampson Director X X X X
Park Parks/Recreation Craig Marr Director X X X X X X
Open Space Parks/Recreation Brad Langsather Manager X X
Parking Lot Parking Commission Dave Hewitt Director X X X
Parking Garage Parking Commission Dave Hewitt Director X X X
City Streets Public Works David Knoepke Superintendent X X X X X X X X
Utilities
1
Public Works David Knoepke
Interim
Superintendent
X X X X XXXX
Lift Station Public Works Jason Fladland Supervisor X X X
Storage Tank Public Works Jason Fladland Supervisor
1
Water distribution, wastewater collection and conveyance, and storm water collection and conveyance.
1.2 Activity Inventory
Table 3 identifies City activities that have the potential to release contaminants to the MS4. Similar
activities have been grouped into nine categories. The City will develop one SOP for each category
to describe procedures to be used to minimize the potential discharge of contaminants associated
with these activities.
Table 3. City Activities that have the Potential to Release Contaminants to the MS4
SOP Category Activity
Potential Pollutants
Sediment
Nutrients
Trash
Metals
Bacteria
Oil, Grease, Fuel
Organics
Pesticides/Herbicides
Hazardous Waste
Landscaping
Mowing X X
Tree Trimming X X
Fertilizer/pesticide/herbicide application X X
Planting X
Equipment fueling X
Street
Maintenance and
Repairs
Street sweeping X X X X X X X
Chip sealing X X
Asphalt and concrete cutting X X
Asphalt and concrete resurfacing X X
Curb and crosswalk painting X X
Pothole repair X
Winter Street
Operations
Street sanding X X
Snow removal and storage X X X
Street deicing X X
Parking Lot
Maintenance
Sweeping/cleaning X X X X X X X
Parking lot striping X X
Snow removal and storage X X X
Utility
Maintenance
Water line repairs
X X
Water line flushing X X
Sanitary sewer line repairs X X X X X
Storm sewer line repairs X X
Catch basin cleaning X X X X X X X X
Excavation and stockpiles X X
Solid Waste
Management
Dumpster and receptacle management
X X X X X X X
Solid waste collection X X X X X X X
Building
Maintenance
Sidewalk snow removal
X X X
Dumpster and receptacle management X X X X X X X
Shop and Fleet
Services
Vehicle fueling
X X
Vehicle and equipment storage X X
Vehicle washing X X
Materials storage X X
Vehicle maintenance X X
Spills Spill response and containment X X X X X X
Table 4 identifies applicable SOPs to be implemented for Tier 2 facilities. A comprehensive list of
Tier 2 facilities is provided in Table A-1 (Appendix A).
Table 4. SOPs for Tier 2 Facilities
Facility Information
A
pplicable SOPs
Tier 2
Facility Type
Department
Responsible for
Pollution Prevention
Landscaping
Street Maintenance
and Repairs
Winter Street
Operations
Parking Lot
Maintenance
Utility Maintenance
Solid Waste
Management
Building Maintenance
Shop and Fleet
Services
Spills
Building Community Facilities X X X X X
Park Parks/Recreation X X
Open Space Parks/Recreation X
Parking Lot Parking Commission X X
Parking Garage Parking Commission X X
City Streets Public Works X X
X
Utilities Public Works X X
Lift Station Public Works X
Storage Tank Public Works
1.3 SOP Development
The City has two categories of storm water pollution prevention SOPs: facility-specific and activity-
based. The list of SOPs to be developed is provided in Table 5.
Table 5. Storm Water Pollution Prevention SOPs
SOP Name
Facility-Based SOPs
(Tier 1 Facilities)
Wastewater Treatment Facility
Solid Waste Transfer Station
Utility Maintenance Shop
Sanitation Storage
Vehicle Maintenance Facility
Capital Transit
Parks Maintenance Shop
Missouri River Water Treatment Plant
Ten Mile Water Treatment Plant
Fire Department
Activity-Based SOPs
(Tier 2 Facilities)
Landscaping
Street Maintenance and Repairs
Winter Street Operations
Parking Lot Maintenance
Utility Maintenance
Fire Department
Solid Waste Management
Building Maintenance
Shop and Fleet Services
Spills
1.4 SOP Training
Persons responsible for pollution prevention at City facilities will conduct or oversee annual storm
water pollution prevention training for all permittee staff directly involved with implementing SOPs.
For newly created SOPs, trainings will be conducted during the next permit year after development
of the SOP.
Appendix A. Tier 2 Facility List and Map
PATH: G:\PROJECTS\HELENA_CITY_OF\SWMP 2017-2022\MAP_DOCS\SOPS\COH_FACILITYBASEMAP_2.MXD - USER: MPETERSO - DATE: 2/7/2019
CITY OWNED FACILITIES
CITY OF HELENA - 2018 SWMP
CITY OF HELENA - 2018 SWMP SOP'S
0 3,000
Feet
O
SOURCE: ESRI, CITY OF HELENA
LEGEND
²³
Community Facility
Fire Station
#
Maintenance Facility
IA Parking Lot
p
o
Water or Wastewater Facility
?> Regional Stormwater Pond
City Parks
Solid Waste Facility
City Limits
Missouri River WTP
To Ten Mile WTP
1115 Rimini Rd
Tenmile Creek
WWTP
Effluent Canal
Helena Valley
Irrigation Canal
Prickly Pear Creek
Table A-1. Tier 2 City Facilities
Department
Name Address
Community Facilities
Capital Transit Office Building 1415 N Montana Ave
Chamber of Commerce Building 225 Cruse Ave
City County Admin Building 316 N Park Ave
Grandstreet Theater 325 N Park Ave
Helena Civic Center 340 Neill Ave
Lewis and Clark Library 120 S Last Chance Gulch
Helena Police Department 221 Breckenridge St
Parks/Recreation
Bill Roberts Golf Course 2201 N Benton Ave
Barney Park 1950 Cleveland St
Batch Park 2101 N Benton Ave
Bausch Park 1200 N Last Chance Gulch
Beattie Park 1400 Helena Ave
Bullrun Park 766 S California St
Centennial Park 1977 N Benton Ave
Charles Van Hook Wetland 55 Silsbee Ave
Cherry Hill Park 900 Cherry Ave
Clinton Park 350 S Beattie St
Constitution Park 301 N Last Chance Gulch
Cruse Park 551 N Last Chance Gulch
Crystal Springs Park 232 Willowbrook Dr
Cunningham Park 1234 Flowerree St
Dale Harris Park 279 S Cruse Ave
Diehl Hill 575 Diehl Dr
Donaldson Park 3187 Cabernet Dr
Fire Tower Park 111 S Cruse Ave
Gold Park 2250 Gold Ave
Heritage Park 201 S Last Chance Gulch
Hill Park 561 N Park Ave
Janet Park 525 Janet St
Jaycee Park 3276 N Benton Ave
Kay McKenna Park 740 Getchell St
Kessler Park 501 N Davis St
Last Chance Splash Waterpark 1203 N Last Chance Gulch
Leo Pocha Park 310 State St
Department
Name Address
Parks/Recreation
Lincoln Park 1398 Poplar St
Lockey Park 1700 E Broadway St
Meatloaf Hill Park Touch Stone Dr
Memorial Park & Adjacent Area 1203 N Last Chance Gulch
Mount Helena Park 81 Reeders Village Dr
Mountain View Park 375 S Alice St
Mountain View Park 2 2964 Powderhorn Ct
Nob Hill Park 3010 Saddle Dr
Northwest Park 100 Valley Dr
Oakes Street Parcel S Oakes St & Belt View Dr
Performance Square 11 N L Chance Gulch
Pioneer Park 201 S Park Ave
Pioneer Village Park 1 Colter Loop Dr
Reber PUD 2000 University St
Reeder's Alley 525 Adams St
Ridge View Condos 73 Comstock Rd
Robinson Park 1724 Townsend Ave
Ryan Park 30 W Custer Ave
Selma Held Park 2749 Belt View Dr
Siebel Soccer Complex 2250 Skyway Dr
Sixth Ward Park 1235 Bozeman St
Skelton Park 875 Road Runner St
Tracy Park 2450 Tracy Dr
Waukesha Park 1600 Waukesha Ave
Wesleyan Park 801 Helena Ave
Women's Park 575 Fuller Ave
Yund Park 601 N Benton Ave
Parking Commission
Parking Lot 230-314 S Park Ave
Parking Lot 49 S Park Ave
Parking Lot 5 Wong St
Parking Lot 308 N Jackson St
Parking Lot 350 N Jackson St
Parking Lot 225 Cruse Ave
Parking Lot 150 Cruse Ave
Parking Lot 91 E Broadway St
Parking Lot 340 N Benton Ave
Department
Name Address
Parking
Commission
15th St. Parking Garage 15 W 15
th
St
6th Ave Parking Garage 39 W 6
th
Ave
Getchell St. Parking Garage 801 Getchell St
Jackson St Parking Garage 201 Jackson St
Jackson St Parking Lot 336 N Jackson St
Last Change Gulch Parking Garage 125 N L Chance Gulch
Public Works
Waste Water Lift Station 444 Andesite Ave
Municipal Storage Tank 1301 MT Helena Dr
Municipal Storage Tank 1966 Lime Kiln Rd
Municipal Storage Tank 250 Clancy St
Municipal Storage Tank 702 Touchstone Dr
1
Activities associated with each SOP category are provided in Table 3
Appendix B. Stormwater Pollution Prevention SOPs
Page1of3
CITY OF HELENA
STORM WATER POLLUTION PREVENTION
S
TANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
CATEGORY:
Landscaping
SOP NUMBER:
01
ISSUE DATE:
2/15/2019
ACTIVITIES:
Mowing
Tree Trimming
Fertilizer/Pesticide/Herbicide Application
Planting
Equipment Fueling
T
ARGET POLLUTANTS:
Sediment
Nutrients
Oil & Grease
Organics
Pesticides/Herbicides
GENERAL
THIS SOP IS NOT EXPECTED TO COVER ALL NECESSARY PROCEDURE ACTIONS. OPERATORS ARE ALLOWED TO ADAPT SOPS TO
UNIQUE SITE CONDITIONS IN GOOD JUDGMENT WHEN IT IS NECESSARY FOR SAFETY AND THE PROPER AND EFFECTIVE CONTAINMENT OF
POLLUTANTS
.
D
ESCRIPTION OF ACTIVITIES AND POLLUTANT SOURCE
Landscaping activities that have the potential to discharge pollutants to storm water runoff include
mowing, tree trimming, fertilizer/pesticide/herbicide application, planting, and equipment fueling. These
activities occur at most City owned buildings and City parks.
APPLICABILITY
The procedures outlined in this SOP shall be implemented by all employees conducting landscaping
activities at City owned facilities.
B
EST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES (TO BE IMPLEMENTED FOR ALL LANDSCAPING ACTIVITIES)
Locate all storm drain collection structures and inlets prior to starting work.
Use temporary catch basin protection when necessary.
Inspect equipment for gas and oil leaks prior to use.
Promptly clean up spills in accordance with the spill response and containment SOP.
Collect and dispose of all trash in the work area.
Equipment cleaning and maintenance is to be completed at the Vehicle or Parks Maintenance
Shop.
THE FOLLOWING ACTIVITY PROCEDURES SHOULD BE FOLLOWED FOR EACH LISTED ACTIVITY
MOWING
City staff are responsible for maintaining grassy areas at City owned buildings and City parks. Mowing
includes the operation of mowers, trimmers, edgers, and blowers to maintain aesthetics of City managed
grassy areas. A variety of pollutants can be introduced to the storm water system while mowing.
Implement the following procedures to minimize potential for storm water pollution during the mowing
process:
Adjust mower height to match the area’s intended use and minimize clippings.
Avoid excessive soil and vegetation damage by varying mowing patterns.
When bagging clippings ensure appropriate collection, transportation, and disposal of all clippings.
Sweep or blow clippings from sidewalks and streets to grass areas when work is complete.
Page2of3
CITY OF HELENA
STORM WATER POLLUTION PREVENTION
S
TANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
CATEGORY:
Landscaping
SOP NUMBER:
01
ISSUE DATE:
2/15/2019
Dispose of clippings at the City Transfer Station.
T
REE TRIMMING
City Staff perform routine care for trees and shrubs at City owned buildings and City parks. Tree trimming
includes the operation of trimmers, chippers, and blowers to maintain aesthetics of City managed trees
and shrubs. Oil, grease, fuel, and organics can be introduced to the storm water system while trimming.
Implement the following procedures to minimize potential for pollution during the trimming process:
Collect all trimmings and debris in the area when work is complete.
Sweep or blow chips from pavement(s) into soil areas.
Dispose of trimmings and debris at the City chip and mulch processing yard.
F
ERTILIZER/PESTICIDE/HERBICIDE APPLICATION
Properly trained and certified persons perform routine care for grassy areas at City owned buildings and
City parks. Fertilizer, pesticide, and herbicide application includes the operation of sprayers and spreaders
to maintain health of City managed grassy and vegetated areas. A variety of nutrients and chemicals can
be introduced to the storm water system during treatment. Implement the following procedures to
minimize potential for pollution in the fertilizer/pesticide/herbicide application process:
Avoid application within a minimum of 20 feet of surface water and 100 feet of a City well head.
Read and review all product information prior to use. This information includes but is not limited to,
safety data sheets, product instructions, and federal and state regulations governing use.
Calibrate application equipment to avoid excessive material application.
Check the weather forecast. Wind and or rain conditions (current and future) may not be
acceptable for application. Do not use pesticides if rain is expected within a 24-hour period and
only apply when wind speeds are less than 5 mph.
Mix and prepare pesticides away from storm drains and soils, preferably inside a protected area
within a watertight secondary container.
Employ appropriate techniques to minimize off-target application of fertilizer and pesticides, spray
drift and over broadcasting are possible pollutants to the storm water system.
Clean spills immediately and follow product specified procedures.
Rinse application equipment away from water bodies and storm drains. Do not dispose of
chemicals to storm drain, sewer, or ground surface.
Dispose of excess material following manufacturer’s instructions.
P
LANTING
Planting includes digging, planting/seeding, and backfilling to maintain aesthetics of City managed land.
Sediment and nutrients can be introduced to the storm water system during planting if proper procedures
are not followed. Implement the following procedures to minimize potential for pollution when planting:
Prior to digging call Montana 811 by dialing 811 or 800-424-5555 to locate underground facilities.
While digging place spoils near the hole for ease of backfilling, avoid placing spoils in or near the
gutter, a storm drain, or water body.
Do not add excessive amounts of compost or fertilizer while backfilling.
Apply seed and cover using pre-determined application method and rate.
Sweep dirt from surrounding pavement(s) into the planter area.
Page3of3
CITY OF HELENA
STORM WATER POLLUTION PREVENTION
S
TANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
CATEGORY:
Landscaping
SOP NUMBER:
01
ISSUE DATE:
2/15/2019
Remove extra spoils from the site responsibly, use a tarp if necessary to contain spoils during
transport.
Transport spoils to at the City chip and mulch processing yard.
Larger planting projects may require installation of temporary storm water BMPs such as silt fence
and biorolls. Contact the City storm water engineer to discuss pollution prevention for planting
projects that are near water bodies and will take more than two days to complete.
E
QUIPMENT FUELING
Equipment fueling applies to all gas, diesel, or kerosene vehicles and equipment required for maintenance
of City facilities. Harmful chemicals can be introduced to the storm water system if spills occur while fueling
equipment. Implement the following procedures to minimize pollution during fueling:
Use the fuel automatic shut off (where applicable) to prevent overfilling, and do not ‘top off’ the
tank.
Mobile fueling should be minimized, whenever practical transport vehicles and equipment to
designated fueling areas.
When fueling small equipment from portable containers, fuel in an area a minimum of 50 feet
away from storm drains and water bodies.
If a large fuel spill occurs (greater than 1 gallon), contact the City storm water engineer and your
supervisor to determine if specialized sill response procedures are necessary.

Page1of3
CITY OF HELENA
STORM WATER POLLUTION PREVENTION
S
TANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
CATEGORY:
Shop and Fleet Services
SOP NUMBER:
02
ISSUE DATE:
2/15/2019
ACTIVITIES:
Vehicle Fueling
Vehicle and Equipment Storage
Vehicle Washing
Material Storage
Vehicle Maintenance
T
ARGET POLLUTANTS:
Sediment
Oil, Grease, Fuel
Organics
Hazardous Waste
GENERAL
THIS SOP IS NOT EXPECTED TO COVER ALL NECESSARY PROCEDURE ACTIONS. OPERATORS ARE ALLOWED TO ADAPT SOPS TO
UNIQUE SITE CONDITIONS IN GOOD JUDGMENT WHEN IT IS NECESSARY FOR SAFETY AND THE PROPER AND EFFECTIVE CONTAINMENT OF
POLLUTANTS
.
D
ESCRIPTION OF ACTIVITIES AND POLLUTANT SOURCE
The shop and fleet service activities that have the potential to discharge pollutants to storm water runoff
include vehicle fueling, vehicle and equipment storage, vehicle washing, material storage, and vehicle
maintenance. Pollutants associated with these activities include sediment, oil, grease, fuel, organics, and
hazardous waste. The majority of the City’s shop and fleet service activities occur at the Vehicle
Maintenance facility, Parks Maintenance Shop, and Capital Transit facility.
APPLICABILITY
The procedures outlined in this SOP shall be implemented by all employees conducting shop and fleet
services at City owned facilities.
B
EST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES (TO BE IMPLEMENTED FOR ALL SHOP AND FLEET SERVICE ACTIVITIES)
Inspect vehicles and equipment for gas and oil leaks prior to use.
Promptly clean up spills in accordance with the spill response and containment SOP.
Collect and dispose of all trash in the work area.
Keep work and storage areas clean for easy detection of leaks and spills.
Equipment cleaning and maintenance is to be completed at the Vehicle, Parks, or Capital Transit
Maintenance facility.
THE FOLLOWING ACTIVITY PROCEDURES SHOULD BE FOLLOWED FOR EACH LISTED ACTIVITY
VEHICLE FUELING
Vehicle fueling applies to all gas and diesel vehicles used by City facilities staff. Harmful chemicals can be
introduced to the storm water system if spills occur while fueling. Implement the following procedures to
minimize potential pollution during fueling:
a) Shut off the vehicle prior to fueling.
b) Fuel vehicles at approved locations.
c) Inspect fueling location for corrosion, leaks, cracks, scratches, and other physical damage that
may lead to spills.
d) Follow all posted warnings.
Page2of3
CITY OF HELENA
STORM WATER POLLUTION PREVENTION
S
TANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
CATEGORY:
Shop and Fleet Services
SOP NUMBER:
02
ISSUE DATE:
2/15/2019
e) Use the fuel automatic shut off (where applicable) to prevent overfilling, and do not ‘top off’ the
tank.
f) Remain by the fill nozzle while fueling.
g) Mobile fueling should be minimized, whenever practical transport vehicles to designated fueling
areas.
h) If a large fuel spill occurs (greater than 1 gallon), contact the City storm water engineer and your
supervisor to determine if specialized spill response procedures are necessary.
V
EHICLE AND EQUIPMENT STORAGE
Vehicles and equipment stored for any period of time have the potential to leak, spill, or release chemicals
or hazardous materials into the storm water system. Storage occurs at numerous City owned facilities.
Implement the following procedures to minimize potential pollution during vehicle and equipment storage:
a) Whenever possible, store vehicles and equipment inside where floor drains are not connected to
the storm sewer system.
b) Vehicles and equipment stored outside shall be in approved locations away from storm drain inlets.
c) Monitor stored vehicles and equipment closely for leaks, use a drip pan as needed.
d) Drain fluids from leaking or wrecked vehicles as soon as possible. Dispose of fluids properly, as
directed by the facility’s superintendent.
V
EHICLE WASHING
Vehicle washing removes snow, ice, mud, and dirt from the surface of vehicles. Washing occurs in the
Vehicle Maintenance facility washing bay, the Capital Transit facility washing bay, or other approved
locations. Pollutants associated with vehicle washing include sediment, oil, grease, and fuel. Implement
the following procedures to minimize potential pollution during vehicle washing:
a) Wash vehicles in designated areas only, with drainage connecting to the sanitary sewer system.
b) Avoid using excess water and soap when washing vehicles.
c) Never wash vehicles over or near a storm drain.
d) Use hoses with automatic shut off nozzles to minimize water usage.
M
ATERIAL STORAGE
Material storage applies to automotive products, fertilizers, pesticides, paints, chemicals, and other similar
materials. Material storage includes proper handling through unloading, use, storage, and disposal. Indoor
and outdoor storage occurs at the Vehicle Maintenance, Capital Transit, and Parks Maintenance facilities.
Implement the following procedures to minimize potential pollution during material storage:
a) Store materials indoors or under cover whenever possible.
b) Store materials on elevated surfaces, limiting contact with storm water run-off when possible.
c) Provide an adequate storage container for all materials.
d) Inspect storage areas and containers regularly for leaks, spills, and proper storage of all materials.
e) Properly dispose of materials that are outdated or beyond use.
f) All hazardous materials must be labeled and stored according to manufacturer instructions.
g) Use secondary containment as needed to prevent contact with storm water in the event of a leak.
Page3of3
CITY OF HELENA
STORM WATER POLLUTION PREVENTION
S
TANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
CATEGORY:
Shop and Fleet Services
SOP NUMBER:
02
ISSUE DATE:
2/15/2019
VEHICLE MAINTENANCE
Vehicle maintenance is routine for all city owned vehicles. Preventative maintenance will occur at the
Vehicle Maintenance facility and Capital Transit facility, while emergency repairs may require off-site work.
Potential pollutants associated with vehicle maintenance are oil, antifreeze, brake fluid, solvents, batteries,
fuels, and cleaners. Implement the following procedures to minimize potential pollution during vehicle
maintenance:
a) Perform maintenance activities in a designated maintenance bay at the Vehicle Maintenance
facility or Capital Transit facility whenever possible.
b) If outdoor work is required, prevent spilling through use of oil pans or similar devices.
c) Use absorbent pads and drip pans when necessary.
d) Keep equipment clean and do not allow excessive build-up of oil and grease.
e) Perform regular preventative maintenance to minimize occurrence of leaks and major repairs.
f) Dispose of used fluids, rags, and absorbent pads appropriately at the landfill.
Storm Water Pollution Prevention Standard Operating
Procedures
for:
Vehicle Maintenance Facility
3001 East Lyndale Ave
Helena, MT, 59601
(406) 447-1565
SOP Preparation Date: January 2019
City of Helena Public Works Department
Storm Water Management Program
City of Helena Montana | STORM WATER MANAGEMENT PROGRAM STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES
Vehicle Maintenance Facility
January 2019
SECTION 1.0 Facility Description and Contact Information
1.1 Facility Information
Facility Information
Name of Facility: Vehicle Maintenance Facility
Street: 3001 East Lyndale Ave
City: Helena State: MT ZIP Code: 59601
Discharge Information
Drainage Basin: Bull Run
Drainage Basin Receiving Waterbody: Prickly Pear Creek
Does this facility discharge storm water directly into any segment of a receiving waterbody?
1
Yes No
Permit Information
Is this facility permitted by an MPDES Permit (in addition to MS4)? Yes No
If Yes, identify other discharge permits: ____________________
1.2 Contact Information/Responsible Parties
Facility Superintendent:
Name: David Knoepke
Telephone number: (406) 447-1565
Email address: dknoepke@helenamt.gov
City Storm Water Management Program Coordinator:
Storm Water Management Contact Name (Primary): Matt Culpo
Telephone number: (406) 447-8073
Email address: mculpo@helenamt.gov
1.3 Storm Water Pollution Prevention Team
The storm water pollution prevention team is responsible for implementing and maintaining storm water
control measures/BMPs, and taking corrective actions when required.
Name Position/Title Individual Responsibilities
David Knoepke
Utilities Maintenance Division Interim
Superintendent
Site storm water lead
J.D. Foreman Fleet Coordinator Fleet maintenance storm water lead
Robert Williamson Traffic Tech III Traffic storm water lead
Harlan Erskine Street Supervisor Streets storm water lead
1
For purposes of this document, direct discharge refers to site runoff discharging directly into a stream or other receiving
waterbody immediately upon leaving the bounds of the site or facility.
City of Helena Montana | STORM WATER MANAGEMENT PROGRAM STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES
Vehicle Maintenance Facility
January 2019
1.4 Site Description
The Vehicle Maintenance Facility, located at 3001 East Lyndale Ave, includes Fleet Maintenance (City
Shop), Streets Division, and the Traffic Division. Fleet Maintenance services include preventative
maintenance and repairs to the City’s fleet of vehicles and equipment, acquisition and disposal of vehicles
and equipment, and fuel billing services. Streets Division services include sweeping, plowing, sanding, snow
removal, asphalt projects, pothole repair, and street maintenance. The Traffic Division is primarily a
maintenance division responsible for pavement and curb markings, signal repair and maintenance, sign
installation and repairs, and traffic data collection. A site plan of the approximately 5 acre facility is provided
in Figure 1.
1.5 Purpose and Limitations
This standard operating procedures (SOP) document identifies potential storm water pollutants that could be
discharged from the site and storm water pollution best management practices (BMPs) to be installed,
implemented, and maintained to minimize the discharge of pollutants from storm water runoff. The potential
pollutants and BMPs identified in the document only address management of storm water associated with
municipal activities. Management of potential pollutants covered under separate permits (i.e., storm water
discharges associated with industrial activity) are not addressed in this document.
This document is not expected to cover all necessary procedure actions. Operators are allowed to adapt
SOPs to unique site conditions in good judgment when it is necessary for safety, and the proper and
effective containment of pollutants.
City of Helena Montana | STORM WATER MANAGEMENT PROGRAM STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES
Vehicle Maintenance Facility
January 2019
Figure 1. Vehicle Maintenance Facility Site Plan
City of Helena Montana | STORM WATER MANAGEMENT PROGRAM STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES
Vehicle Maintenance Facility
January 2019
SECTION 2.0 Potential Storm Water Pollutant Sources
This section describes potential storm water pollutant sources associated with the Vehicle Maintenance
facility.
2.1 Potential Storm Water Pollutants Associated with Facility Activities
The Vehicle Maintenance facility’s primary operations consist of shop and fleet services, street maintenance
and repairs, winter street operations, and parking lot maintenance. A list of activities with the potential to
discharge pollutants to the storm drainage system associated with this facility is provided in Table 1.
Measures to be taken to reduce the potential for discharge of pollutants associated with these activities are
identified in Section 3.2.2.
Table 1. Vehicle Maintenance Facility Activities and Potential Storm Water Pollutants
Activity
Potential Pollutants
Sediment
Nutrients
Trash
Metals
Bacteria
Oil, Grease, Fuel
Organics
Pesticides/Herbicides
Hazardous Waste
Landscaping
X X X X X
Street Maintenance and Repairs
1
X X X X X X X X
Winter Street Operations
1
X X X X
Parking Lot Maintenance
1
X X X X X X X X
Catch basin cleaning
1
X X X X X X X X
Excavation and stockpiles (only stockpiles) X X
Building Maintenance X X X X X X X X
Shop and Fleet Services X X X
1. Activity performed off-site.
2.2 Spills and Leaks
Table 2 provides a list of locations where spills that would discharge contaminants to the storm drain system
could occur. Spill response protocol is described in Section 3.2.3.
Table 2. Areas Where Potential Spills/Leaks Could Occur
Location Discharge Point
Vehicle bays Interior
Magnesium chloride storage tank Sheet flow to valley gutter, then to French drain
City of Helena Montana | STORM WATER MANAGEMENT PROGRAM STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES
Vehicle Maintenance Facility
January 2019
SECTION 3.0 Storm Water Control Measures
This section describes the storm water BMPs to be installed, implemented, and maintained to minimize the
discharge of pollutants from storm water runoff at the facility.
3.1 Structural BMPs
3.1.1 Storm Water Drainage System
The site is located within the Bull Run watershed which discharges to Prickly Pear Creek. The facility
drainage system is composed of a French drain, concrete valley gutter, and a retention pond:
The French drain is located northwest of the vehicle maintenance facility.
The retention pond is located in the northeast corner of the property.
The concrete valley gutter runs parallel to the south and west walls of the building, connecting to the
French drain.
The facility’s storm water drainage system features are shown on the site plan in Figure 1.
3.1.2 Permanent Storm Water Management BMPs
BMP Locations
Site storm water runoff quality and quantity is controlled by the French drain northwest of the Vehicle
Maintenance facility and the retention pond located at the northeast corner of the site. A sweeper truck
washout facility is located north of the maintenance shop as shown in Figure 1.
BMP Inspection and Maintenance
The facility superintendent is responsible to inspect and direct maintenance of the site’s storm water BMPs:
Inspect the valley gutters on a monthly basis and following rain events for sediment, debris, and
structural damage. Sediment and debris should be removed to prevent clogging of the facility’s
French drain.
The French drain and retention pond should be inspected annually in the spring. Debris should be
removed. The BMPs should also be monitored during rainfall events to verify they are functioning
properly. If water does not infiltrate within 48 hours contact
Dave Knopke to request rehabilitation of
the BMP.
The sweeper truck washout should be inspected prior to each use by the sweeper truck operator. If
the facility is full of sediment or debris
excavate material and dispose of in the landfill.
3.1.3 Chemical and Bulk Fuel Storage
The facility has a magnesium chloride storage tank onsite in an enclosed container east of the winter sand
storage. Contact Dave Knopke if the tank is leaking or there is a spill present, and begin to contain the
leaking or spilled fluid.
City of Helena Montana | STORM WATER MANAGEMENT PROGRAM STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES
Vehicle Maintenance Facility
January 2019
3.2 Non-Structural BMPs
3.2.1 Employee Training
Fleet maintenance staff, streets staff, and traffic staff shall all receive annual training on updates to the
division SOPs. Additionally, new hires are to be trained on the SOPs within 90 days of their hire date.
Training should be conducted by the division’s storm water lead.
3.2.2 Good Housekeeping
Good housekeeping procedures to be implemented by facility staff are listed in Table 3.
Table 3. Vehicle Maintenance Facility Storm Water Management Good Housekeeping Procedures
Activity Responsible Person/Position
BMP to Reduce Potential for
Pollution
Landscaping
Craig Marr Follow Landscaping SOP
Street Maintenance and Repairs Dave Knopke
Follow Street Maintenance and
Repairs SOP
Winter Street Operations
Dave Knopke Follow Winter Street Operations SOP
Parking Lot Maintenance
Dave Knopke Follow Parking Lot Maintenance SOP
Catch basin cleaning
Dave Knopke
Follow Utility Maintenance SOP
Excavation and stockpiles (only stockpiles) Dave Knopke
Building Maintenance Troy Sampson Follow Building Maintenance SOP
Shop and Fleet Services Dave Knopke Follow Shop and Fleet Services SOP
3.2.3 Spill Response
Spill response and cleanup is addressed by employee training, discussed in Section 3.2.1. Spill response
procedures are provided below.
Facility Spill Kit
The facility has two spill kits located in the mechanics office and in the vehicle bay area, both are in 5-gallon
buckets. The spill kit contains the following items:
Absorbent Pads
Bags of Floor Dry
Booms
Disposal Bags
Safety Goggles
Rubber Gloves
Respirator
Minor Spill Response Procedure
A minor spill is defined as one that poses no significant threat to human health or the environment. These
spills generally involve less than 5 gallons and can usually be cleaned up by City personnel. Other
characteristics of a minor spill include:
The spilled material is easily stopped or controlled at the time of the spill
The spill is localized
The spilled material is not likely to reach surface water or groundwater
City of Helena Montana | STORM WATER MANAGEMENT PROGRAM STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES
Vehicle Maintenance Facility
January 2019
There is little danger to human health
There is little danger of explosion
Use the following procedures in response to a minor spill:
1. Immediately notify the facility superintendent of the spill.
2. If necessary, physically contain the spill to prevent further migration from the facility or project site.
a. Stop or reduce continued release by ceasing activity, closing valves or flipping switches.
b. Block or slow the migration of spilled material.
c. Close or plug drains when possible.
2. Using proper personal protective equipment, obtain and use supplies from the spill kit for
containment and absorption.
3. In consultation with the facility superintendent, clean up small spills that can be effectively cleaned
up by City staff or hire a spill cleanup contractor.
4. Dispose of all contaminated products in accordance with applicable federal, state and local
regulations.
5. Document the spill material, location, size, and date.
Major Spill Response Procedure
A major spill is defined as one involving a spill that cannot be safely and or adequately controlled or cleaned
up by on-site personnel. Characteristics of a major spill include:
The spill is large enough to spread beyond the immediate area
The spill material entered surface water or ground water (regardless of the size)
The spill requires special training and equipment to cleanup
The spill material is a threat to human health
There is a danger of fire or explosion
Use the following procedures in response to a major spill:
1. All workers shall immediately evacuate the spill site to a safe distance away from the spill.
2. Notify the facility superintendent of the spill and details regarding the spill.
3. If there is not an immediate health or safety danger and if actions can be implemented safely, a
trained employee shall conduct obvious and immediately implementable containment measures in
the following sequence:
a. Stop or reduce continued release by ceasing activity, closing valves or flipping switches.
b. Block or slow the migration of spilled material.
c. Close or plug drains when possible.
4. The facility superintendent will contact the Fire Department to notify the Hazardous Response Team.
5. The facility superintendent will coordinate cleanup with the Hazardous Response Team.
6. Document the spill material, location, size, and date.
City of Helena Montana | STORM WATER MANAGEMENT PROGRAM STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES
Vehicle Maintenance Facility
January 2019
Attachments: Activity SOPs
Landscaping SOP
Street Maintenance and Repairs SOP
Winter Street Operations SOP
Parking Lot Maintenance SOP
Utility Maintenance SOP
Building Maintenance SOP
Shop and Fleet Services SOP
Storm Water Pollution Prevention Standard Operating
Procedures
for:
Wastewater Treatment Facility
2108 East Custer Ave
Helena, MT, 59602
(406) 457-8558
SOP Preparation Date: January 2019
City of Helena Public Works Department
Storm Water Management Program
City of Helena Montana | STORM WATER MANAGEMENT PROGRAM STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES
Wastewater Treatment Facility
January 2019 1
SECTION 1.0 Facility Description and Contact Information
1.1 Facility Information
Facility Information
Name of Facility: Wastewater Treatment Facility (WWTF)
Street: 2108 East Custer Ave
City: Helena State: MT ZIP Code: 59602
Discharge Information
Drainage Basin: Davis Gulch
Drainage Basin Receiving Waterbody: Prickly Pear Creek
Does this facility discharge storm water directly into any segment of a receiving waterbody?
1
Yes No
Permit Information
Is this facility permitted by an MPDES Permit (in addition to MS4)? Yes No
If Yes, identify other discharge permits: Domestic Wastewater Treatment Plant (MT0022641)
1.2 Contact Information/Responsible Parties
Facility Superintendent:
Name: Mark Fitzwater
Telephone Number: (406) 457-8558
Email address: mfitzwater@helenamt.gov
City Storm Water Management Program Coordinator:
Storm Water Management Contact Name (Primary): Matt Culpo
Telephone number: (406) 447-8073
Email address: mculpo@helenamt.gov
1.3 Storm Water Pollution Prevention Team
The storm water pollution prevention team is responsible for implementing and maintaining storm water
control measures/BMPs, and taking corrective actions when required. The facility superintendent is the
facility’s storm water pollution prevention lead. All facility staff engage in storm water pollution prevention
measures and are part of the storm water pollution prevention team.
1.4 Site Description
The WWTF is located on a 17 acre site at 2108 East Custer Ave on the north-east side of the City (see
Figure 1). The WWTF uses biological nutrient removal process to treat approximately 3.5 million gallons of
raw sewage per day. The facility is authorized to discharge treated wastewater effluent to Prickly Pear Creek
under the Montana Pollution Discharge Elimination System (MPDES). Storm water runoff from the site
drains to a large self-contained dry retention basin located in the northeast corner of the site and two smaller
retention ponds located near the administrative building and belt filter press building.
1
For purposes of this document, direct discharge refers to site runoff discharging directly into a stream or other receiving
waterbody immediately upon leaving the bounds of the site or facility.
City of Helena Montana | STORM WATER MANAGEMENT PROGRAM STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES
Wastewater Treatment Facility
January 2019 2
Access to the WWTF is through a shared access with the Utility Maintenance Facility (located east of and
adjacent to the WWTF) and the Lewis and Clark County Humane Society animal shelter from East Custer
Avenue. This access is used for employees, visitors, deliveries, and maintenance vehicles. Two additional
access locations are located on the east side of North Washington Street. The southern access is used for
sewage disposal vehicles and for access to an interpretive/meeting building, as well as, limited access
through a locked gate to the WWTF. The northern access is gated, and used for maintenance and operation
of WWTF. A site plan of the WWTF is provided in Figure 1.
1.5 Purpose and Limitations
This standard operating procedures (SOP) document identifies potential storm water pollutants that could be
discharged from the site and storm water pollution best management practices (BMPs) to be installed,
implemented, and maintained to minimize the discharge of pollutants from storm water runoff. The potential
pollutants and BMPs identified in the document only address management of storm water associated with
municipal activities. Management of potential pollutants covered under separate permits (i.e., domestic
wastewater treatment plant) are not addressed in this document.
This document is not expected to cover all necessary procedure actions. Operators are allowed to adapt
SOPs to unique site conditions in good judgment when it is necessary for safety and the effective
containment of pollutants.
City of Helena Montana | STORM WATER MANAGEMENT PROGRAM STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES
Wastewater Treatment Facility
January 2019 3
Figure 1. WWTF Site Plan
City of Helena Montana | STORM WATER MANAGEMENT PROGRAM STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES
Wastewater Treatment Facility
January 2019 4
SECTION 2.0 Potential Storm Water Pollutant Sources
This section describes potential storm water pollutant sources associated with the WWTF.
2.1 Potential Storm Water Pollutants Associated with Facility Activities
WWTF primary operations consist of treatment of waste water from the City’s sewer system, sludge
collections, handling and disposal, mulch storage and application for odor control, and septic tank sewage
disposal. The majority of the facility operations, along with standard operating procedures to prevent
pollution, are described in the facility’s multiple operating plans and manuals. A list of WWTF activities with
the potential to discharge pollutants to the storm drainage system is provided in Table 1. Measures to be
taken to reduce the potential for discharge of pollutants associated with these activities are identified in
Section 3.2.2.
Table 1. WWTF Activities and Potential Storm Water Pollutants
Activity
Potential Pollutants
Sediment
Nutrients
Trash
Metals
Bacteria
Oil, Grease, Fuel
Organics
Pesticides/Herbicides
Hazardous Waste
Landscaping X X X X X
Parking lot maintenance X X X X X X X X
Building maintenance X X X X X X X X
Utility maintenance X X X X X X X X
Solid waste management (screenings & grit
removal)
X X X X X X
Biosolids handling X X X X X
Odor control mulch maintenance X X X X
2.2 Spills and Leaks
Table 2 provides a list of locations where spills that would discharge contaminants to the storm drain system
could occur. Spill response protocol is described in Section 3.2.63.2.3.
Table 2. Areas Where Potential Spills/Leaks Could Occur
Location Discharge Point
Warm storage building used oil tank Self-contained, see Section 3.1.3.
Belt press room used oil tank Self-contained, see Section 3.1.3.
City of Helena Montana | STORM WATER MANAGEMENT PROGRAM STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES
Wastewater Treatment Facility
January 2019 5
SECTION 3.0 Storm Water Control Measures
This section describes the storm water BMPs to be installed, implemented, and maintained to minimize the
discharge of pollutants from storm water runoff at the facility.
3.1 Structural BMPs
3.1.1 Storm Water Drainage System
The site is located within the City’s Davis Gulch watershed which discharges to Prickly Pear Creek;
however, the site itself is a closed basin which drains to dry on-site retention/infiltration basins. A berm exists
along the northern edge of the loop road to direct runoff east to the large retention area and to prevent runoff
from discharging offsite or into the WWTF effluent channel. One culvert exists to convey runoff under an
access road to the large retention basin. The facility’s storm water drainage system features are shown on
the site plan in Figure 1.
3.1.2 Permanent Storm Water Management BMPs
BMP Locations
Site storm water runoff quality and quantity is controlled by the retention area located in the northeast corner
of the site. This site is designed as a zero discharge site for storm events up to the 100-year event. All
impounded water in the retention ponds infiltrates, evaporates or evapotranspires. Two smaller retention
ponds located near the administrative building and belt filter press building control storm water runoff within
this site for local drainage control (see Figure 1).
BMP Inspection and Maintenance
The City’s storm water management program is generally responsible for maintenance of the facility’s storm
water management BMPs; however, WWTF staff members should always be aware of the condition of
BMPs. WWTF staff should inspect the retention basins following runoff events to verify that water is
infiltrating and not ponding for excessive periods of time. The berm along the northern edge of the loop road
should also be visually inspected following runoff events to confirm that it is in good condition (no erosion).
Contact the City Storm Water Management Program Coordinator (listed on Page 1) if a BMP is in need of
maintenance.
3.1.3 Chemical and Bulk Fuel Storage
The facility has two used oil storage tanks located onsite:
The used oil storage tank in the warm storage building has a capacity of 5,000 gallons. The building
floor is sloped towards the center of the building to serve as secondary containment if the tank
develops a leak. Contact the facility superintendent if a crack in the tank or leak is discovered.
The used oil storage tank in the belt press room has a capacity of 1,200 gallons. There is a sump pit
in the building to serve as secondary containment if the tank develops a leak. Contact the facility
superintendent if a crack in the tank or leak is discovered. Material in the sump can be pumped to
the waste storage tank, if necessary.
City of Helena Montana | STORM WATER MANAGEMENT PROGRAM STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES
Wastewater Treatment Facility
January 2019 6
3.2 Non-Structural BMPs
3.2.1 Employee Training
Training Procedures
All new employees have training and/or are trained for the duties of their position and the environment at the
facilities. All employees receive specialized training stormwater pollution prevention, BMPs, illicit discharges
and operation within a regulated Phase II, Small Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4). This
training includes speaker and video instruction of the following courses by Excal Visual, Inc.:
Storm Watch – Municipal Stormwater Pollution Prevention
IDDE – “a grate concern”
Rain CheckStorm Water Pollution Prevention for MS4s
Employee training with regard to illicit discharges includes proper storage, handing, disposal, and spill
recognition and response. Additionally, WWTF staff shall all receive annual training on updates to the
facility’s SOPs and new hires are to be trained on the SOPs within 90 days of their hire date.
Training Schedule
The storm water pollution management training procedures identified above are to be implemented annually
for all WWTF staff. New WWTF staff are to receive training within 90 days of hire date.
3.2.2 Good Housekeeping
Good housekeeping procedures to be implemented by facility staff are listed in Table 3.
Table 3. WWTF Storm Water Management Good Housekeeping Procedures
Activity
Responsible
Person/Position
BMP to Reduce Potential for
Pollution
Landscaping Craig Marr, Director Follow Landscaping SOP
Parking lot maintenance Troy Sampson, Director Follow Parking Lot Maintenance SOP
Building maintenance Troy Sampson, Director Follow Building Maintenance SOP
Utility maintenance Dave Knopke, Superintendent Follow Utility Maintenance SOP
Solid waste management (screenings & grit
removal)
Pete Anderson,
Superintendent
See Section 3.2.3
Biosolids handling
Mark Fitzwater
Superintendent
See Section 3.2.4
Odor control mulch maintenance
Mark Fitzwater
Superintendent
See Section 3.2.5
3.2.3 Solid Waste Management
Screenings and grit accumulate in a roll-off container in the Headworks Building as raw wastewater enters
the facility. The screenings and grit must be hauled to the landfill once per week. The screenings and grit are
within a closed building that is not connected to the storm drain system; however, storm water pollution
could occur during the transfer of screenings and grit from the Headworks Building to the landfill. Implement
the following procedures to minimize potential for storm water pollution during the screenings and grit
management process:
a) Load the roll-off container that contains the screenings and grit onto the hooklift truck
b) Verify that the container is securely attached to the truck prior leaving the facility
City of Helena Montana | STORM WATER MANAGEMENT PROGRAM STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES
Wastewater Treatment Facility
January 2019 7
c) Drive to the Lewis and Clark County Landfill and deposit the waste as directed by the landfill
operator
d) Place the roll-off container in its proper position after returning to the Headworks Building to collect
more screenings and grit
3.2.4 Biosolids Handling
Biosolids are an organic waste product that accumulate from the secondary treatment process and are
digested to meet environmental regulations. The biosolids are removed from the site on a daily basis (five
days per week). Biosolids handling occurs within a closed building that is not connected to the storm drain
system; however, storm water pollution could occur during the transfer of Biosolids from the WWTF to the
final destination. Implement the following procedures to minimize potential for storm water pollution during
the biosolids handling process:
Summer Season (Land application at Diehl Ranch)
a) Pump the biosolids sludge into the septic truck (approximately 4,000 gallons per load)
b) Drive to the Diehl Ranch (an EPA approved location)
c) Coordinate with the ranch manager to spray the biosolids onto the land at the appropriate
agronomical uptake rate (as approved for specific crops)
Winter Season (Compost at Lewis and Clark County Landfill)
a) Verify that the roll-off container is placed correctly to collect thickened sludge from the belt filter
press
b) Process the biosolids sludge over belt filter press machine to thicken to approximately 14% solids
(thickened sludge will automatically drop into the roll-off container)
c) Load the roll-off container containing thickened sludge onto the hooklift truck
d) Verify that the container is securely attached to the truck prior leaving the facility
e) Drive to the Lewis and Clark County Landfill and deposit the biosolids as directed by the landfill
operator
e) Place the roll-off container in its proper position after returning to the WWTF to collect thickened
sludge
3.2.5 Odor Control Mulch Maintenance
Odor control mulch is located next to the Headworks Building. If the mulch were to need replacement, it
should be hauled to the landfill using the Solid Waste Management procedures identified in Section 3.2.3.
3.2.6 Spill Response
Spill response and cleanup is addressed by employee training, discussed in Section 3.2.1. Spill response
procedures are provided below.
Facility Spill Kit
The facility has two spill cleanup kits. The first kit, containing absorbent socks, is located in the Headworks
Building. The second kit, containing a 30 gallon drum of kitty litter, is located in the Maintenance Shop.
Minor Spill Response Procedure
A minor spill is defined as one that poses no significant threat to human health or the environment. These
spills generally involve less than 5 gallons and can usually be cleaned up by City personnel. Other
characteristics of a minor spill include:
City of Helena Montana | STORM WATER MANAGEMENT PROGRAM STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES
Wastewater Treatment Facility
January 2019 8
The spilled material is easily stopped or controlled at the time of the spill
The spill is localized
The spilled material is not likely to reach surface water or groundwater
There is little danger to human health
There is little danger of explosion
Use the following procedures in response to a minor spill:
1. Immediately notify the facility superintendent of the spill.
2. If necessary and safe to do so, physically contain the spill to prevent further migration from the
facility or project site.
a. Stop or reduce continued release by ceasing activity, closing valves or flipping switches.
b. Block or slow the migration of spilled material.
c. Close or plug drains when possible.
2. Using proper personal protective equipment, obtain and use supplies from the spill kit for
containment and absorption.
3. In consultation with the facility superintendent, clean up small spills that can be effectively cleaned
up by City staff or hire a spill cleanup contractor.
4. Dispose of all contaminated products in accordance with applicable federal, state and local
regulations.
5. Document the spill material, location, size, and date.
Major Spill Response Procedure
A major spill is defined as one involving a spill that cannot be safely and or adequately controlled or cleaned
up by on-site personnel. Characteristics of a major spill include:
The spill is large enough to spread beyond the immediate area
The spill material entered surface water or ground water (regardless of the size)
The spill requires special training and equipment to cleanup
The spill material is a threat to human health
There is a danger of fire or explosion
Use the following procedures in response to a major spill:
1. All workers shall immediately evacuate the spill site to a safe distance away from the spill.
2. Notify the facility superintendent of the spill and details regarding the spill.
3. If there is not an immediate health or safety danger and if actions can be implemented safely, a
trained employee shall conduct obvious and immediately implementable containment measures in
the following sequence:
a. Stop or reduce continued release by ceasing activity, closing valves or flipping switches.
b. Block or slow the migration of spilled material.
c. Close or plug drains when possible.
4. The facility superintendent will contact the Fire Department to notify the Hazardous Response Team.
5. The facility superintendent will coordinate cleanup with the Hazardous Response Team.
6. Document the spill material, location, size, and date.
City of Helena Montana | STORM WATER MANAGEMENT PROGRAM STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES
Wastewater Treatment Facility
January 2019 9
Attachments: Activity SOPs
Landscaping SOP
Parking Lot Maintenance SOP
Building Maintenance SOP
Utility Maintenance SOP