Detention ponds play a vital role in stormwater management, ensuring the safe and controlled flow of water while mitigating the risk of flooding and protecting water quality. In South Carolina, the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC) holds a significant responsibility in overseeing the regulation and management of detention ponds. In this blog post, we explore the important role SCDHEC plays to ensure proper functioning and maintenance of detention ponds throughout the state.

SCDHEC serves as the primary regulatory authority for stormwater management in South Carolina. The department establishes guidelines and regulations that dictate the design, construction, and maintenance of detention ponds. These regulations aim to protect water quality, minimize impact of stormwater runoff on the environment, and ensure functionality of detention ponds in managing excessive water flow.

SCDHEC is responsible for issuing permits and approvals for the construction and modification of detention ponds. Developers and builders must obtain the necessary permits from SCDHEC to ensure compliance with the state's stormwater management regulations. The department reviews the design plans, specifications, and engineering calculations associated with detention ponds to ensure they meet the required standards before granting permits.

SCDHEC conducts inspections of detention ponds to assess their compliance with regulatory requirements. These inspections may include evaluating the functionality of the pond, checking for proper sedimentation and erosion control measures, assessing water quality, and verifying adherence to maintenance schedules. Inspections help identify any deficiencies or non-compliance issues that need to be addressed by the responsible parties. Note that the routine inspections are generally performed by municipality regulators. Even still, these inspections must follow SCDHEC’s guidance.

As custodians of environmental health, SCDHEC monitors the water quality of detention ponds and the receiving water bodies downstream. This includes assessing pollutant levels, measuring nutrient concentrations, and evaluating the overall ecological health. By monitoring water quality, SCDHEC ensures that detention ponds effectively reduce pollutants in stormwater runoff and prevent contamination of waterways.

SCDHEC provides technical assistance and educational resources to stakeholders involved in the management of detention ponds. The department offers guidance on best management practices for pond design, construction, and maintenance. SCDHEC's expertise helps ensure that detention ponds are effectively designed and maintained, reducing the risk of structural failures, water quality degradation, and environmental harm.

In cases of non-compliance or failure to meet regulatory standards, SCDHEC has the authority to take enforcement actions. These actions may include issuing compliance orders, imposing fines or penalties, and requiring corrective actions to be taken by the responsible parties. By enforcing compliance, SCDHEC upholds the integrity of stormwater management regulations and promotes accountability in the proper maintenance and functioning of detention ponds

The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC) plays a critical role in the management and regulation of detention ponds. Through its guidance, permitting processes, inspections, and enforcement actions, SCDHEC ensures that detention ponds are designed, constructed, and maintained to meet the necessary standards. By prioritizing water quality, stormwater management, and environmental protection, SCDHEC safeguards the health and sustainability of South Carolina's water resources, promoting the effective functioning of detention ponds for the benefit of communities and the environment.