North Carolina Construction News staff writer
The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has launched a new online application system for construction stormwater permits, aiming to speed up the approval process and make it easier for builders and developers to stay in compliance with state and federal regulations.
The new digital system is available through the AccessDEQ portal and covers the NCG01 and NCG25 permits. These permits are required for construction projects that disturb more than one acre of land and are designed to protect streams, rivers, and lakes from pollution caused by stormwater runoff.
This is the second major permit type offered online by DEQ’s Division of Energy, Mineral, and Land Resources (DEMLR). The first was for erosion and sediment control. Together, the two online systems are expected to handle over 15,000 permit applications each year.
“This new system makes it easier and faster for people to apply for and track their stormwater permits,” said DEQ Secretary Reid Wilson. “With 42% of our permit applications now online, we’re working toward making the entire permitting process digital.”
The online platform allows users to fill out and submit their applications, pay fees, and check their permit status—all in one place. It’s designed to save time for both applicants and state staff, who review and approve thousands of permits each year.
“This tool will help us process applications more efficiently and improve communication with applicants,” said DEMLR Director Toby Vinson. “It’s especially useful for construction projects that also need erosion control permits, which are already online.”
The state’s stormwater program is part of a broader effort to manage construction impacts on water quality. By moving the permit process online, DEQ hopes to make it more accessible and reduce delays for development projects.
To apply for a construction stormwater permit or learn more, visit the AccessDEQ portal.