DEP launches SPEED program to fast-track stormwater construction permits
(UI) — The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) began accepting applications on June 30 for its new Streamlining Permits for Economic Expansion and Development (SPEED) program, which aims to shorten review times for key construction permits without relaxing environmental standards.
“For the past few years, DEP has looked for new ways to improve our services while still protecting Pennsylvania’s beautiful environment, and SPEED is another tool for us to do both,” said Acting DEP Secretary Jessica Shirley. “Like an amusement-park fast pass, SPEED gives permit applicants the choice to skip the permit line and have their project first reviewed by a qualified professional contracted through the Department and paid for by the applicant.”
How SPEED works
- Phase-in: The first permit eligible is the Chapter 102 Individual NPDES Permit for Stormwater Discharges Associated with Construction Activities. Additional permit categories—air quality, dam safety, water obstruction and encroachment—will join the program later in July.
- Third-party review: Applicants may pay a DEP-verified consultant to conduct the initial technical review. DEP staff then evaluate the consultant’s recommendation, issue a decision or identify deficiencies. DEP retains final authority over all permits.
- Cost: Applicants cover the consultant’s fees in addition to standard DEP application charges.
DEP is still accepting bids from qualified professionals to perform SPEED reviews for future permit types.
Modernization efforts
The SPEED initiative, created under the 2024-25 state budget, follows several DEP modernization steps:
- Permit Tracker: Launched in January, the online tool lets applicants and residents monitor permit progress in real time.
- Staffing: Since 2023, DEP has added 225 employees to reduce backlogs in inspections and permit reviews.
- PAyback refund policy: An executive order signed by Governor Josh Shapiro guarantees a processing-time “date certain.” If DEP misses the deadline, the agency refunds the application fee.
DEP says these measures have already cut processing times and reduced backlogs, providing greater certainty for developers and municipalities.
As DEP marks its 30th anniversary in 2025, Shirley said the agency will “continue to work as partners with people, businesses, and organizations to protect our natural resources and public health, now and forever.”
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