ENVIRONMENTAL PERMITTING

 

LOCAL, watershed, and state permitTING

We handle the challenges of securing permits for your construction projects across local, watershed, and state (MPCA/DNR) levels. With our extensive understanding of regulatory requirements and established relationships with permitting authorities, we are able to achieve efficient and streamlined project advancement.

  • Local Permitting: We manage the city, township, and county permitting processes, including zoning variances, building permits, and other local approvals, ensuring compliance with local ordinances.
  • Watershed Permitting: We work collaboratively with watershed authorities to design effective stormwater management plans and acquire the necessary approvals.
  • State Regulations: We navigate the complexities of State (PCA, DNR, etc.) regulations, securing permits for projects near public waters, wetlands, and sensitive environments.

 

 

stormwater pollution prevention plan (swppp)

 

CMI helps you to minimize environmental impact and with expertly written SWPPP plans designed to ensure regulatory compliance and safeguard your project. Our licensed engineers craft comprehensive erosion control and pollution prevention strategies, tailored to your project’s specific needs. We provide SWPPPs for construction site management as well as long-term solutions for industrial operations and municipal clients. Narrative descriptions and inspection checklists seamlessly guide implementation, ensuring regulatory compliance and minimizing risks. 

 

epa phase I environmental site assessment (ESA)

CMI understands the crucial role of environmental due diligence in ensuring the successful development and redevelopment of land. Our services include Phase I Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs), which are the first step in identifying potential environmental liabilities associated with a property. Through our investigation process, we gather and analyze historical records, regulatory databases, aerial photographs, and site reconnaissance data to assess potential risks associated with past and present land uses, potential releases of hazardous materials, and adherence to environmental regulations. This information is then compiled into a concise report that supports informed decision-making for our clients.

With extensive experience in conducting Phase I ESAs for diverse project types,  we have the expertise to navigate the complexities of environmental due diligence. We adhere to the standards of ASTM E1527-21, ensuring consistent and reliable investigations that meet the needs of lenders, developers, and regulatory agencies.

 

 

spill prevention, control, & countermeasure (spcc) plan

For facilities storing oil or oil-containing products, ensuring environmental protection and minimizing the risk of oil spills is critical. This is where Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC) Plans come into play. SPCC Plans are comprehensive documents outlining specific measures a facility will implement to prevent oil spills from reaching navigable waters or adjoining shorelines. These plans are required for certain facilities by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

As civil engineers with extensive experience in environmental compliance, we offer comprehensive SPCC planning services tailored to your facility’s specific needs. Our team of qualified professionals understands the intricate requirements of the EPA’s SPCC regulation and can guide you through every step of the process, from plan development to training and ongoing compliance support.

 

fema flood zone submittals (loma, lomr-f, etc.)

In areas designated as Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs) by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), flood risk mitigation is paramount. To address potential inaccuracies in flood maps or unique property situations, FEMA offers various tools for property owners and local governments to reassess their floodplain designation. These include Letters of Map Amendment (LOMAs), Letters of Map Revision based on Fill (LOMR-Fs), and Letters of Map Revision (LOMRs), among others.

Navigating these processes can be challenging, and consulting with qualified professionals helps to ensure a successful application. Our team of experienced civil engineers possesses in-depth knowledge of FEMA floodplain management regulations and map change applications. CMI provides comprehensive expertise and dedicated support throughout the FEMA submittal process., working to save you from unnecessary flood insurance requirements while ensuring your property’s value and resilience.

 

industrial permitting

Industrial operations often require a complex network of permits for various activities, including stormwater discharge, nonmetallic mining, and land development. Our civil engineering team possesses extensive experience navigating these intricate regulatory landscapes, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and optimizing project efficiency.

We provide comprehensive support across the permitting spectrum, from guiding permit applications for stormwater discharge under NPDES regulations to reviewing industrial development plans from a permitting perspective. Our collaborative approach leverages deep industry-specific knowledge and a proven track record of success, helping clients achieve their project goals while maintaining sound environmental stewardship and positive community relations.