How Scranton Handles Environmental Rules: A Practical Guide

Scranton maintains 100 local ordinances across all categories, and 2 of those deal specifically with environmental rules. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Scranton falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Stormwater Management

Scranton's Stormwater Management Ordinance (Chapter 405, adopted March 9, 2006) governs runoff, infiltration, and BMP maintenance under PA Act 167 and the PADEP NPDES MS4 permit. All stormwater in the City drains to the Lackawanna River and then the North Branch of the Susquehanna.

Key details: Code Reference: Chapter 405 (3-9-2006). Plan Trigger: Earth disturbance over 5,000 sq ft. State Law: Act 167 (32 P.S. 680.1). MS4 Permit: 25 Pa. Code Chapter 92a. Receiving Water: Lackawanna River.

Discharging non-stormwater into the MS4, failing to maintain a required BMP, or commencing regulated earth disturbance without an approved SWM site plan violates Chapter 405. Under Article X of the chapter, summary offenses can be punished by a fine of not more than $300, and PADEP can pursue civil penalties under the Clean Streams Law.

Flood Zones

Scranton's Floodplain Management Requirements are codified at Section 445.51 of the Zoning Ordinance, last amended July 28, 2020 by Ordinance No. 16-2020. New construction in a Special Flood Hazard Area along the Lackawanna River or Roaring Brook must be elevated or flood-proofed at least 18 inches above base flood elevation.

Key details: Code Reference: Section 445.51 (Ord. 16-2020). Freeboard: 18 inches above BFE. State Law: 32 P.S. 679.101 (Act 166 of 1978). FIRM Update: LOMR effective July 6, 2011. Key Watercourses: Lackawanna River, Roaring Brook.

Building, filling, or substantially improving structures in an SFHA without a floodplain development permit violates Section 445.51. The Floodplain Administrator can require removal or elevation, and FEMA can suspend Scranton from the NFIP, ending federally backed flood insurance citywide.

Compared to other cities, Scranton takes a harder line on flood zones. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

The Bottom Line

Scranton's environmental rules rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Scranton is broadly strict or permissive.

This guide is based on Scranton's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.