Environmental Rules in Pasadena, CA (2026)
5 verified environmental rules for Pasadena, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Stormwater Management
Pasadena's Stormwater Management and Discharge Control (PMC Chapter 8.70) prohibits illicit discharge to the municipal stormwater system. LID plans required for new development must retain the 85th percentile storm on-site. NPDES permit compliance mandatory.
Pasadena Stormwater Management Rules
Heavy RestrictionsErosion Control
Pasadena requires erosion control measures for all construction and grading activities per Title 14 Building Code. BMPs must prevent sediment discharge. Properties near natural watercourses must protect bank vegetation under PMC 8.70.100.
Pasadena Erosion Control Requirements
Heavy RestrictionsCoastal Development
Pasadena is an inland city approximately 15 miles from the coast. California Coastal Commission regulations do not apply. No coastal development permits are required.
Pasadena Coastal Development Rules
Few RestrictionsCalifornia Coastal Commission — Coastal Zone Boundary Maps (Public Resources Code Section 30103, Coastal Act of 1976)
Public Resources Code (PRC) Section 30103(a) specifically defines California's Coastal Zone as that land and water area of the State of California from the Oregon border to the border of the Republic of Mexico depicted on maps identified and set forth in Section 17 of that chapter of the Statutes of the 1975-76 Regular Session enacting PRC Division 20 (the Coastal Act of 1976). PRC Section 3010...
Flood Zones
Pasadena has flood-prone areas along the Arroyo Seco and other waterways. The city participates in FEMA's NFIP. Construction in flood zones must meet FEMA elevation requirements and city floodplain management standards.
Pasadena Flood Zone Regulations
Heavy RestrictionsGrading & Drainage
Grading in Pasadena is regulated under Title 14 Chapter 14.05 (Excavation, Grading, and Hillside Areas). Grading permits required for earthwork. Hillside areas have enhanced standards to minimize terrain alteration. Drainage plans must be submitted with development applications.
Pasadena Grading & Drainage Rules
Heavy RestrictionsLooking for Los Angeles County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Pasadena city rules.
Environmental Rules in Los Angeles County →