SPEED Permitting Program Expanded for PA Companies

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has expanded its SPEED Permitting Program – Streamlining Permits for Economic Expansion and Development (SPEED). Under the Shapiro Administration, the program now provides additional flexibility and promptness to permit applicants. Applicants may choose to have a DEP-verified and qualified professional conduct the initial review of their application. DEP will then review the recommendations and issue the final permit decision, maintaining full authority over all permitting outcomes.

Reviews Covered by the Expanded SPEED Permitting Program

The expedited process is permitted for the following types of SPEED reviews:

– Air Quality Plan approvals
– Chapter 105 Waterway and Wetland Encroachment permits
– Chapter 105 Dam Safety permits
– Chapter 102 National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) general permits (PAG-01 and PAG-02) for stormwater discharges associated with construction activities
– Chapter 102 Individual NPDES permits (previously available)
– Chapter 102 Erosion and Sediment Control permits
– Chapter 102 Erosion and Sediment Control General permit (ESCGP for earth disturbance associated with oil and gas exploration, production, processing, or treatment operations or transmission facilities)

Additional DEP Modernization Efforts

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is also modernizing its systems by:

– Investing in new technology and reviewing processes
– This will quicken the review timeline for the applications in the areas of air quality, dam safety, oil and gas well pad construction, wetland and waterway encroachment, and additional erosion and sedimentation permits.

Improved Transparency

DEP now enables applicants and residents to track the progress of permits as they move through the review process. As a result of these improvements, applicants are experiencing:

– Greater certainty in review timelines
– Fewer delays in permit approvals
– A more efficient experience when doing business with the Commonwealth.

Partner with FCAP

Moving through the SPEED Permitting Program can be challenging. To keep your application moving quickly and efficiently, let FCAP guide you through the process.

Contact us online to inquire for permitting guidance.