What are BMP Certificates and how do I get one?

To protect Lake Tahoe for future generations, the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency requires all developed parcels to install and maintain BMPs. Properties in compliance receive a BMP Certificate, which remains active as long as BMPs are maintained and functioning properly. For more information on TRPA’s Stormwater Management Program, read one of our brochures. 

 

BMP Database

To determine a property’s BMP status and print a copy of the BMP Certificate, search the  BMP Database.

 

BMP Retrofit Process

If your property does not have a BMP Certificate, assistance is available to help property owners through the BMP retrofit process. There are three easy steps to bring a property into compliance.

  

Step 1: BMP Evaluation

A BMP Evaluation is an assessment of a property to determine what BMPs are required to come into compliance with TRPA’s Best Management Practices Requirements. Start the BMP Retrofit Process by signing up for a free BMP Evaluation.

 
Certified Evaluators
Need an evaluation right away? TRPA has certified a group of qualified contractors and engineers who can provide BMP site evaluations in addition to installation services.  Click here to find a Certified Evaluator in your area.  Interested in becoming a Certified Evaluator? Submit your information here to be placed on the wait list for the next class.
 
Do-It-Yourself BMP Evaluation
Want to design your own BMPs?
 The Home Landscaping Guide for Lake Tahoe and Vicinity offers a step-by-step self guided BMP Evaluation and information to create a beautiful landscape that incorporates fire defensible space while protecting Lake Tahoe.
The Tahoe RCD also provides step by step instructions to conduct a BMP Evaluation on their website Additional information regarding BMP design can be found in the Handbook of Best Management Practices.
Need help? The Conservation Districts and TRPA are always available to answer questions and provide technical assistance for individuals designing their own BMPs

 

Step 2: BMP Implementation

Once your property has a BMP evaluation, install the BMPs yourself or hire a qualified contractor to do the work.

BMP Retrofit Permit
Most residential properties can install BMPs without a permit from TRPA. However, if paving, grading of more than 7 cubic yards of soil, and/or engineered stamped plans are needed to complete the project a free TRPA BMP Retrofit permit is required. The majority of commercial and multi-family properties require a  BMP Retrofit Application to install BMPs.  
 
Contact a TRPA Environmental Specialist for more information on permitting related to BMPs: (775)589-5202

 

  BMP Installation Guidance and Resources
Click here for BMP installation guidance and the Resource List of BMP Materials
BMP Contractor’s Notes *Note: Spanish version of the Contractor's Notes expected Summer 2011
Contractors BMP Manual
Contractors BMP Manual (en Español)
Home Landscaping Guide
Resource List of BMP Materials 

 

Step 3: BMP Certificate

Once BMPs prescribed in the BMP Evaluation are installed and the property passes a Final Inspection, TRPA will issue a BMP Certificate (direct link to BMP Search Engine for explanation on different types of certificates). Properties with certificates remain compliant as long as BMPs are maintained and functioning. Contact the appropriate agencies to request a final inspection.