Stormwater Management: Alpharetta vs Atlanta
How do stormwater management rules compare between Alpharetta, GA and Atlanta, GA?
Alpharetta and Atlanta have similar restriction levels.
Alpharetta, GA
Fulton County
Stormwater development in Fulton County is regulated under Chapter 26 Article IV (Stormwater Management) and the Fulton County Comprehensive Stormwater Management Design and Criteria Manual.
View full Alpharetta rules →Atlanta, GA
Fulton County
Atlanta Code Chapter 74 Article X (the Post-Development Stormwater Management Ordinance, adopted 2013) requires every new development and redevelopment to manage the first 1.0 inch of runoff on-site and execute an inspection and maintenance agreement under Sec. 74-517.
View full Atlanta rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Alpharetta | Atlanta |
|---|---|---|
| Code | §26-127 | - |
| LDA trigger | 1 acre | - |
| MS4 | Phase I | - |
| Code Section | - | Atlanta Code Ch. 74 Art. X |
| Inspection Section | - | Sec. 74-517 |
| Water Quality Standard | - | First 1.0 inch on-site |
| Adopted | - | 2013 |
| Enforcing Agency | - | Dept. of Watershed Management |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Alpharetta FAQ
Can I dump used motor oil down a storm drain?
No — illicit discharge is a state and county violation.
Do I need stormwater detention?
Yes for any project disturbing 1+ acre.
Atlanta FAQ
Who must inspect stormwater BMPs in Atlanta?
Property owners must arrange annual inspections under the Sec. 74-517 Inspection and Maintenance Agreement; Watershed Management audits compliance.
Does the rule apply to single-family homes?
Yes, Atlanta's Post-Development Stormwater Ordinance applies to nearly all new development and redevelopment, including single-family residential.
What is the water quality treatment standard?
Sites must manage the first 1.0 inch of rainfall on-site using green infrastructure under Chapter 74 Article X.
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