Stormwater Management: Carmichael vs Citrus Heights
How do stormwater management rules compare between Carmichael, CA and Citrus Heights, CA?
Carmichael and Citrus Heights have similar restriction levels.
Carmichael, CA
Sacramento County
Sacramento County operates under a joint NPDES MS4 Permit (R5-2016-0040) with the City of Sacramento and other co-permittees. County Code Chapter 15.12 implements stormwater pollution prevention. New and redevelopment projects over 1 acre (or smaller in some cases) must comply with Post-Construction Stormwater Standards including LID and hydromodification controls.
View full Carmichael rules →Citrus Heights, CA
Sacramento County
Citrus Heights operates an NPDES MS4 stormwater program under the Sacramento Area Stormwater Quality Partnership. Discharging anything other than rainwater into storm drains is prohibited. New development must implement Low Impact Development (LID) per the Sacramento Region Stormwater Quality Design Manual.
View full Citrus Heights rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Carmichael | Citrus Heights |
|---|---|---|
| Permit | NPDES R5-2016-0040 | NPDES MS4 via SASQP |
| County Code | Chapter 15.12 | - |
| SWPPP | 1+ acre disturbance | - |
| LID | 5,000+ sq ft impervious | - |
| Penalty | Up to $10,000/day | - |
| Prohibition | - | Only rainwater in storm drains |
| LID Threshold | - | 5,000 sq ft impervious |
| Construction | - | 1+ acre needs CGP/SWPPP |
| Fine | - | $100-$10,000+ |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Carmichael FAQ
Can I wash my car in my driveway?
Residential car washing is allowed but soapy water should be directed to landscaped areas, not the street or storm drain.
Do I need a SWPPP for my home remodel?
Only if construction disturbs 1 acre or more. Smaller sites still need erosion and sediment control Best Management Practices.
Citrus Heights FAQ
Can I wash my car in the driveway?
Yes, but soapy runoff should be directed to landscaping or a sewer cleanout, not the street/storm drain. Commercial car washing is preferred.
Where do I report illegal dumping in a storm drain?
Contact Citrus Heights Public Works or the Sacramento Stormwater Hotline to report illicit discharges.
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