To protect our local waterways and maintain high-performing infrastructure across our community, North Whitehall Township manages an ongoing Residential and Commercial Stormwater Inspection Program. Managed by Keystone Consulting Engineers (KCE), this initiative ensures that Best Management Practices (BMPs) and stormwater control facilities throughout the Township operate effectively, safely, and in compliance with state and municipal regulations.

Why Is Stormwater Management Important?

When rain falls on roofs, driveways, parking lots, and roadways, it cannot soak naturally into the ground. This uncontrolled runoff carries sediment, oils, fertilizers, and other pollutants directly into local creeks, rivers, and drainage networks. Properly maintained stormwater facilities, such as detention basins, rain gardens, underground storage beds, bioswales, and storm drains, help filter pollutants, prevent localized flooding, reduce soil erosion, and protect local watersheds.

Role of Keystone Consulting Engineers:

  • Field-inspecting constructed stormwater management practices (BMPs).
  • Verifying that systems match approved engineering plans.
  • Checking for structural integrity, erosion, clogging, invasive vegetation, or standing water.
  • Providing clear guidance to property owners regarding necessary maintenance or repairs.
  • Supporting the Township’s compliance with Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PA DEP) Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) standards.

What Property Owners Should Expect

Residential Properties

Homeowners with post-construction stormwater BMPs on their property (such as seepage pits, rain gardens, swales, or detention areas) are responsible for routine maintenance. During an inspection:

  • KCE inspectors will conduct a visual evaluation of the stormwater feature.
  • Inspectors assess whether runoff flows freely and drains within designed timeframes.
  • If maintenance is required (such as removing debris, clearing clogged outlets, or replacing vegetation), property owners will receive practical recommendations to restore full function.

Commercial Properties

Commercial developments typically feature higher volumes of impervious surface, requiring larger structural stormwater infrastructure (such as underground retention tanks, oil/water separators, or large retention basins).

  • KCE inspectors verify structural soundness, outlet structures, trash racks, and sediment levels.
  • Property owners or facility managers are evaluated on compliance with approved Operation and Maintenance (O&M) agreements.
  • Any deficiencies in maintenance will be documented with a clear path toward resolution.

How You Can Help Prevent Stormwater Pollution

Routine professional inspections keep infrastructure working, but day-to-day actions by residents and business owners make the biggest impact:

  • Clear Debris: Keep leaves, grass clippings, and litter out of storm drains and drainage swales.
  • Maintain Equipment: Address vehicle leaks promptly so oils and fluids do not wash into the storm sewer system.
  • Use Chemicals Responsibly: Apply fertilizers and pesticides sparingly according to manufacturer instructions.
  • Report Illicit Discharges: If you see unusual, discolored water, chemical spills, or dumping into storm drains, notify North Whitehall Township immediately.

Contact & Questions

If you have received notice of an upcoming stormwater inspection or have questions about stormwater features on your property, please contact Keystone Consulting Engineers for assistance.

  • Keystone Consulting Engineers:
    • Phone: 610-206-0202
    • Email: NWTBmp@kceinc.com