Act 167 Program – Phase 1
Can you apply?
This grant is for Pennsylvania counties preparing or revising stormwater management plans under Act 167. Only county governments can apply to receive reimbursement for Phase 1 scope of study costs. The program focuses on watershed stormwater planning activities in Pennsylvania counties. Applicants must be prepared to move toward Phase 2 plan development after Phase 1 approval.
This grant is for Pennsylvania counties preparing or revising stormwater management plans under Act 167. Only county governments can apply to receive reimbursement for Phase 1 scope of study costs. The program focuses on watershed stormwater planning activities in Pennsylvania counties. Applicants must be prepared to move toward Phase 2 plan development after Phase 1 approval.
Program description
The Stormwater Management Act (Act of Oct. 4, 1978, P.L. 864, No. 167) (“Act 167”) requires each county to prepare and adopt a watershed stormwater management plan (“Act 167 Plan”) for each watershed located in the county, in consultation with the municipalities located within each watershed. Each county must periodically review and revise the plan at least every five years. Under Section 17 of Act 167, DEP is authorized to award grants to counties for reimbursement of costs in preparing and revising stormwater management plans when funds are appropriated by the General Assembly for this purpose. This grant program will provide funding to counties to prepare a Phase I scope of study under 25 Pa. Code § 111.14. Upon approval of Phase I by DEP, Phase II (or components thereof) may be authorized for the county to prepare or revise its Act 167 Plan.
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
Details
This grant is for Pennsylvania counties preparing or revising stormwater management plans under Act 167. Only county governments can apply to receive reimbursement for Phase 1 scope of study costs. The program focuses on watershed stormwater planning activities in Pennsylvania counties. Applicants must be prepared to move toward Phase 2 plan development after Phase 1 approval.
How to apply
Application links
Required documents
- Grant application form (PA-specific)
- Phase 1 Scope of Study outline
- Municipal coordination documentation
- Project budget and narrative
- County governing body authorization letter
FAQ
Who can apply for this grant?
Only Pennsylvania county governments are eligible. Counties must be preparing or revising their Act 167 stormwater management plans.
What is Phase 1 funding for?
Phase 1 covers the scope of study costs under 25 Pa. Code § 111.14. Phase 2 may be authorized later if Phase 1 is approved.
What is the funding range?
Grants typically range from $30,000 to $50,000 per county award.
How often can counties reapply?
Counties must review and revise their plans every five years, so periodic reapplication is expected.
What happens after Phase 1 is approved?
DEP approval of Phase 1 opens the door for Phase 2 funding to prepare or revise the full Act 167 Plan.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Focus your Phase 1 scope on clearly defining study boundaries, data needs, and timeline for full plan development.
- Coordinate with municipalities in your watershed early to demonstrate municipal consultation as required by Act 167.
- Reference the specific regulatory framework (25 Pa. Code § 111.14) in your proposal to show compliance.
- Develop a realistic budget that covers consultant costs, data collection, and plan review meetings.
- Build a clear roadmap to Phase 2 so DEP sees your commitment to completing the full plan.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Failing to demonstrate adequate municipal consultation and coordination in Phase 1 scope. Submitting vague Phase 1 deliverables without clear timelines or measurable outputs. Underestimating costs for data collection and technical analysis in stormwater modeling.
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