SEMSWA issues three permits for projects in unincorporated Arapahoe County, west of Coal Creek. 

If your project requires multiple SEMSWA permits, they will all be issued simultaneously.

Our permits expire 2 years after the issuance date.

They include:

1. Grading, Erosion and Sediment Control (GESC) Permit

After plan approval and original stamped copies are distributed electronically, the Contractor can install non-earth disturbing initial site Control Measures (CMs, formerly BMPs) for Grading, Erosion and Sediment Control measures per the approved Initial GESC Plan.

Once these are installed, the Contractor must call our office at 303-858-8844 to schedule a Pre-Construction meeting with their assigned SEMSWA Inspector. No construction is to begin before permits are issued. Coordination with the County Inspector may also be necessary.

Your GESC permit will be issued within 24 hours after the SEMSWA Pre-Construction meeting if all non-earth disturbing CMs are found to be in compliance. This permit, as well as the other County permits, will be issued electronically via email to all parties listed on the permits, including the Owner/Applicant and the Contractor. A copy of each permit must remain on the job site during all phases of construction. This copy may be a printed or digital copy. Once permits have been issued, construction may begin.  The earth disturbing control measures then can be installed and should be done prior to any major earthwork or construction work.

For additional information about the GESC permit, click here.

2. Stormwater Public Improvement Permit (SPIP) 

The SPIP permit is only for the inspection of the proposed water quality facility.   There will be a Public Improvement Permit through Arapahoe County Public Works for all other stormwater improvements.

For additional information about the SPIP, click here.

3. Floodplain Development Permit (FPDP)

A Floodplain Development Permit is required for all activities within the floodplain, regardless of impact.  The FPDP must be issued before any work occurs in the floodplain.  

For additional information about the FPDP, click here.

For information about annual permits, click here.