Environmental Rules in Durham, NC (2026)
5 verified environmental rules for Durham, North Carolina, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Stormwater Management
Durham enforces stormwater management through its Unified Development Ordinance and City Code Chapter 70, Article X. All development must meet post-construction stormwater quality and quantity controls. The city operates under an NPDES Phase II MS4 permit and requires stormwater control measures for projects disturbing more than 12,000 square feet. Durham's Reference Guide for Development Section 8.3 sets design standards for stormwater control measures (SCMs).
Durham Stormwater Management Rules
Heavy RestrictionsErosion Control
Durham UDO Section 12.10 requires an approved erosion and sedimentation control plan for land-disturbing activities of one acre or more, or 12,000 square feet in certain watersheds. Plans must comply with the NC Sedimentation Pollution Control Act. The city conducts inspections during construction and can issue stop-work orders and civil penalties for violations. Stormwater runoff velocity from a 25-year storm must not exceed pre-development levels.
Durham Erosion Control Requirements
Heavy RestrictionsCoastal Development
Durham is an inland city located approximately 160 miles from the Atlantic coast. The NC Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) does not apply to Durham or Durham County, as CAMA jurisdiction is limited to the state's 20 designated coastal counties. Durham has no coastal development regulations.
Durham Coastal Development Rules
Few RestrictionsFlood Zones
Durham participates in the National Flood Insurance Program and enforces floodplain regulations through the UDO. Properties in FEMA Special Flood Hazard Areas must meet strict building requirements including elevation above base flood elevation. The Eno River, Flat River, and various tributaries create flood-prone areas. Durham requires structures in the floodplain to be elevated at least one foot above BFE.
Durham Flood Zone Regulations
Heavy RestrictionsGrading & Drainage
Durham requires grading permits for land-disturbing activities under the UDO. Development projects must maintain existing drainage patterns and prevent adverse stormwater impacts on neighboring properties. Drainage criteria are specified in Section 8.1 of the Reference Guide for Development. All grading must comply with stormwater and erosion control standards.