Industrial and commercial facilities often have bulk storage of chemicals, fuel tanks, large equipment, and regular loading and unloading of material. These activities are associated with increased potential for stormwater pollution (ie improper storage or leaking tanks/equipment). The larger area of impervious surfaces makes these sites a priority because of the increased stormwater runoff flow.

Federal regulations require specific industrial sectors to be covered under an NPDES permit. These industries are identified by their Standard Industrial Classification code, listed here in Appendix D. More can be found at the NDEE Industrial Stormwater site.