Final Inspection

BMP Final Inspection

Once you have finished installing your BMPs, the Tahoe RCD can do a BMP Final Inspection of your property. If your property meets the requirements of the BMP Retrofit Ordinance, we will request a Certificate of Completion from the TRPA. We must have a signed copy of our Release Authorization Form to be able to request your Certificate from the TRPA.

Please be aware that starting in 2009, photo documentation is required for installed infiltration systems to verify the depth of the system.  The Tahoe RCD also will conduct a water test in ensure that the runoff is conveyed and infiltrated according to the design storm (1" of rain in one hour).

Before requesting your final inspection, we strongly recommend you go through our final inspection checklist to confirm your BMPs are completed.

Request a BMP Final Inspection or
call the Tahoe RCD at 530-543-1501 extension 113

View the certification status of your property on the TRPA database and download your BMP Certificate.

BMP Maintenance

The BMP Retrofit Ordinance requires that BMPs are maintained and remain functional. Over time, infiltration systems will fill in with sediment and fail to work properly; it is therefore recommended that you check your BMPs after major storms, in the spring, and just before winter.

To test a system, run a garden hose on the associated impervious surface (the driveway or roof, for example) for at least 10 minutes and monitor the flow of water. Confirm that it is being captured by the associated BMP.

To clean infiltration systems, follow these steps:
1. Remove pine needles and any other matter that has collected on top of the system.
2. Remove drain rock from the system and sift with wire mesh to remove sediment.
3. Rinse drain rock.
4. Line excavated area with new or cleaned filter fabric (if system contains filter fabric).
5. Refill with sifted, clean drain rock leaving 3 inches of open space on top.
6. Cover rock with filter fabric, when appropriate, and the last 3 inches of drain rock.
7. Place recovered fine sediments and dirty water in bordered planter bed or other contained area and cover with mulch.