The NJDEP implemented the Stormwater Management Rules N.J.A.C. 7:8 in February 2004 in order to protect the waters of the State from adverse impacts of stormwater runoff. The regulations require projects that disturb one or more acres of land or create at least 0.25 acres of impervious surface to comply with stringent stormwater management standards. These regulations are general in nature, confusing, at times appear to be contradictory, and are difficult to implement within a transportation project. The Stormwater Best Management Practices (BMP) Manual developed by the NJDEP provides examples of techniques and various methods to meet the standards, however it requires the designer to be aware of all the applicable The N. J. Department of Environmental Protection’s Stormwater Management Rules (N.J.A.C. 7:8), adopted on February 2, 2004, has created more stringent storm water management standards for land developments in the state, including roadway and other transportation projects. These Rules include requirements for groundwater recharge and both stormwater quality and quantity control. A Stormwater Best Management Practices (BMP) Manual was developed by the NJDEP to assist regulated agencies such as the NJDOT with Rule compliance. However, the BMP Manual lacks sufficient guidance to properly lead engineers to identify applicable regulations and select appropriate storm water management measures for transportation projects.

As a result, NJDOT planners, designers, and maintenance personnel need a simplified process to navigate the Stormwater Management Rules and facilitate the selection of appropriate stormwater management measures. This report documents the development of an electronic decision-making program in Microsoft Excel that provides such a process. This program also assists NJDOT personnel in determining during early project stages whether all of the requirements of the Rules can be met for a specific project or whether hardship waivers will be necessary.