Stormwater Logging Permit

Monroe County Stormwater Program has jurisdiction over all discharges into the Monroe County stormwater drainage system, which includes both natural and man-made systems for conducting stormwater drainage. Run-off from land-disturbing activities is a particular concern as sediment is the most abundant pollutant found in stormwater discharges.

Construction projects obtain a stormwater grading permit, with performance standards and requirements to prevent and limit sediment loss from sites. Logging projects obtain a stormwater logging permit, previously known as the logging permit, which was administered through the Planning Department. Stormwater logging permits contain performance standards and requirements to prevent and limit land disturbance and sediment loss.

At time of submission, provide an accurate site plan that clearly shows the location of the harvest area, access roads, entrances, stream crossings, log landings, and any special features on the site such as sinkholes or wetlands. This will allow the permit reviewer(s) to make a quick review and recommendation of pollution prevention measures.

Typical logging operations do not include grubbing stumps, grading areas beyond access roads, installing building pads, or installing septic systems. If these activities are planned for the site, a full stormwater grading permit will be required, in addition to other applicable county permits. 

Stormwater Pollution Control Requirements:

• Implement best management practices as outlined in the online Indiana Logging & Forestry Best Management Practices 2022 BMP Field Guide as published by the Forestry Division of the Indiana Department of Natural Resources: https://www.in.gov/dnr/forestry/files/BMP.pdf.
• Minimize stream crossings to the maximum extent possible and comply with local, state, and federal regulations and permit requirements.
• Avoid and protect sensitive areas, such as karst features, wetlands, bluffs, floodplains, and riparian areas.
• Stabilize logging operation areas and remove all trash before the logging operator vacates the site.

Please have the following attachments prepared for submission:

1. Consent from the landowner in the form of a letter or contract. In addition, a statement from the property owner acknowledging they are aware that they are the responsible party in case of any compliance issues;
2. Current deed(s) for the property to be harvested; Legal easement(s), if applicable. Legal easements shall not exclude the property owner from timber harvesting activity;
3. Right-of-Way Activity permit with a bond on file, pursuant to MCC Chapter 755, even if an existing driveway will be used. All loggers are required to contact the Monroe County Highway Department prior to release of the Right-of-Way Activity bond. If lots are accessed by a State Road, provide a copy of a driveway permit from INDOT;
4. List of Best Management Practices (BMPs) in the Indiana Logging & Forestry Best Management Practices 2022 BMP Field Guide;
5. Notification of State Forester for projects in Classified Forest, if applicable;
6. Proposed schedule of logging activity; and A harvest map including a sketch map or drawing containing the following information:
         (i) Site location and boundaries, including both the boundaries of the property on which the timber harvest will take place and the boundaries of the proposed harvest area within that property;
         (ii) Significant topographic features;
         (iii) Location of all earth disturbance activities such as roads, landings, and water control measures and structures;
         (iv) Location of all crossings of all streams regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources; and
         (v) The general location of the proposed operation to municipal, county and state highways, including any accesses to those highways.

Permit Fees:

• Stormwater Program Review - $250
• Planning Department Review - $50 when project is in Urban Area (IC 36-7-4-1103)

Monroe County Stormwater Program and Planning Department may perform inspections before, during, or after logging for compliance with the logging plan and other on-site requirements.

Please contact the Monroe County Stormwater Program with questions about permit applicability and requirements: (812)349-2565, storm@co.monroe.in.us.