SWPPP certification in Texas: what is required? (2026)
The permit requires no SWPPP certification. Inspectors must know the permit, the site and the SWP3.
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Key takeaways
- No license, certificate or course is required by the permit to inspect or to write a SWP3.
- Inspectors must be knowledgeable of the permit, the construction work at the site and the SWP3.
- Inspectors do not need signing authority.
- Some local agencies ask for certificates. That is a local rule.
What does "knowledgeable" mean?
The permit says personnel provided by the permittee must be knowledgeable of the general permit, the construction activities at the site and the SWP3 for the site.
The permit sets no training hours, exam or credential.
Inspector names and qualifications may be written once in the SWP3.
Why do people say "SWPPP certification"?
People mean one of three things.
- A course certificate from a training provider. The permit does not require one.
- A local rule. In 2023 comments on the permit, commenters said many local agencies require certificates such as CISEC or CESSWI.
- A signed statement. Inspection and dewatering reports are signed under 30 TAC 305.128, and TCEQ's template prints the same statement for the plan: "I certify under penalty of law that this document and all attachments were prepared under my direction or supervision".
Who signs the certification statement?
The person who meets 30 TAC 305.44: a responsible corporate officer, a general partner or proprietor, or a principal executive officer or ranking elected person.
A delegate can sign reports only with a written authorization that was submitted to TCEQ, such as a TCEQ-20403 form, with a copy in the SWP3.
FAQ
Do I need a certificate to inspect my own site?
Not under the TCEQ permit. You must know the permit, the site and the SWP3. Check your city.
Does the permit require a state SWPPP license?
No. The permit requires no license, certificate or training to write a SWP3 or to inspect.
Where can a crew learn the inspection steps?
Our crew inspection guide in Spanish and inspection frequency explain the steps.
Facts and sources
- TCEQ permit TXR150000 (2023), Part III.F.8
- TCEQ template RG-639, certification page
- TCEQ response to comments on the 2023 permit, p. 14
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