Stormwater Management: Carmichael vs Folsom
How do stormwater management rules compare between Carmichael, CA and Folsom, CA?
Carmichael and Folsom 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 →Folsom, CA
Sacramento County
Folsom operates a Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) under NPDES permit CAS082597 jointly with Sacramento County. Discharging pollutants — soap, paint, oil, sediment — to storm drains is prohibited. New development must meet Low Impact Development standards.
View full Folsom rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Carmichael | Folsom |
|---|---|---|
| Permit | NPDES R5-2016-0040 | - |
| County Code | Chapter 15.12 | - |
| SWPPP | 1+ acre disturbance | - |
| LID | 5,000+ sq ft impervious | - |
| Penalty | Up to $10,000/day | - |
| MS4 Permit | - | NPDES CAS082597 |
| Co-permittees | - | Folsom + Sac County |
| LID threshold | - | 5,000 sq ft impervious |
| Construction | - | SWPPP if ≥1 acre |
| Receiving waters | - | American River/Folsom Lake |
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.
Folsom FAQ
Can I wash my car in my driveway in Folsom?
Occasional residential car washing is tolerated. Commercial or fleet washing that discharges to the storm drain is prohibited. Best practice: wash on grass or at a commercial car wash where water goes to sanitary sewer.
Who enforces this in Folsom?
Folsom code enforcement at (916) 355-7285 handles most complaints.
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