Stormwater Management: Carmichael vs Galt
How do stormwater management rules compare between Carmichael, CA and Galt, CA?
Galt has fewer restrictions than Carmichael.
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 →Galt, CA
Sacramento County
Galt operates under a Phase II Small MS4 NPDES permit issued by the State Water Resources Control Board. New development and significant redevelopment must implement post-construction stormwater controls following the Central Valley RWQCB requirements.
View full Galt rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Carmichael | Galt |
|---|---|---|
| Permit | NPDES R5-2016-0040 | Phase II Small MS4 NPDES |
| County Code | Chapter 15.12 | - |
| SWPPP | 1+ acre disturbance | - |
| LID | 5,000+ sq ft impervious | - |
| Penalty | Up to $10,000/day | - |
| Regulator | - | Central Valley RWQCB |
| New Development | - | 5,000 sq ft impervious trigger |
| BMPs | - | Site, source, and treatment |
| Illicit Discharge | - | Prohibited into storm drain |
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.
Galt FAQ
Can I wash my car in the driveway in Galt?
Residential car washing with biodegradable soap is generally allowed, but soapy runoff should be minimized. Commercial car washes must direct wastewater to the sanitary sewer.
Where does Galt storm water go?
Storm drains discharge untreated to local creeks and ultimately to the Cosumnes River and Delta system.
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