Stormwater Management: Berkeley vs Sunol
How do stormwater management rules compare between Berkeley, CA and Sunol, CA?
Berkeley and Sunol have similar restriction levels.
Berkeley, CA
Alameda County
Berkeley Clean Stormwater Ordinance BMC Chapter 17.20 prohibits non-stormwater discharges to storm drains and requires stormwater treatment for projects creating or replacing 2,500 square feet of impervious surface.
View full Berkeley rules →Sunol, CA
Alameda County
Alameda County complies with SF Bay Regional Water Board MRP 3.0. Projects disturbing 10,000 sf or more must incorporate Low Impact Development treatment per Provision C.3.
View full Sunol rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Berkeley | Sunol |
|---|---|---|
| Treatment threshold | 2,500 sq ft impervious | - |
| Hydromod threshold | 10,000 sq ft | - |
| Prohibited | Non-stormwater discharges | - |
| Receiving water | San Francisco Bay | - |
| Code | BMC 17.20 | - |
| Permit | - | MRP 3.0 (SF Bay Water Board) |
| C.3 threshold | - | 10,000 sf impervious |
| Single-family | - | 2,500 sf reduced threshold |
| Hydromodification | - | Over 1 acre |
| Local agency | - | Alameda Clean Water Program |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Berkeley FAQ
Can I wash my car in the driveway?
Wash water should not enter the storm drain; use commercial car washes or divert runoff to landscaping.
Do I need stormwater treatment for a home remodel?
Only if the project creates or replaces 2,500+ sq ft of impervious surface; most residential remodels are exempt.
Sunol FAQ
Do I need stormwater treatment for my home addition?
Only if the project creates or replaces 2,500 square feet or more of impervious surface on single-family lots. Most small additions fall below this threshold but still must avoid illicit discharges.
Can I wash my car in the driveway?
Soapy runoff to storm drains is an illicit discharge. Use commercial car washes that recycle water or wash on gravel or lawn where runoff soaks in rather than entering the street.
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