Clearwater vs Pinellas Park
How do stormwater management rules compare between Clearwater, FL and Pinellas Park, FL?
Pinellas Park has fewer restrictions than Clearwater.
Clearwater, FL
Pinellas County
Chapter 32 of Clearwater's Code of Ordinances regulates stormwater through Articles VI and X, establishing the city's stormwater management program, utility fees, and protection rules for the public stormwater system.
View full Clearwater rules →Pinellas Park, FL
Pinellas County
Pinellas Park's Land Development Code Article 2 (Drainage Code) governs stormwater management, retention, and discharge. The city operates under NPDES MS4 permit standards and coordinates with the Pinellas Park Water Management District.
View full Pinellas Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Clearwater | Pinellas Park |
|---|---|---|
| Authority | Code Chapter 32 Articles VI and X | - |
| Federal layer | NPDES MS4 permit | - |
| Funding | Stormwater utility fee | - |
| Prohibited | Illicit non-stormwater discharges | - |
| Receiving waters | Tampa Bay, Intracoastal | - |
| Local Code | - | LDC Article 2 Drainage Code |
| Federal Program | - | NPDES MS4 permit |
| Regional Authority | - | Pinellas Park Water Management District |
| Illicit Discharges | - | Prohibited to storm sewers |
| Maintenance | - | Owner responsibility |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Clearwater FAQ
Can I pour pool water or paint rinse into a Clearwater storm drain?
No. Chapter 32 prohibits illicit discharges into the city stormwater system. Chlorinated pool water, paint, washout, and yard waste must be handled through approved disposal methods.
Why does Clearwater charge a stormwater fee on my utility bill?
The stormwater utility fee in Chapter 32 funds the city's MS4 program, including pipe and pond maintenance, water-quality monitoring, and the inspections required to keep illicit discharges out of Tampa Bay.
Pinellas Park FAQ
Can I dump anything into a Pinellas Park storm drain?
No. Only uncontaminated stormwater is allowed. Dumping yard waste, oil, paint, soaps, or pool water violates NPDES rules and Pinellas Park's drainage code, with fines for violators.
Who maintains the ditches near my property?
Property owners typically maintain on-site swales and drainage easements. The Pinellas Park Water Management District handles primary drainage canals serving the broader area.
Do I need a permit to alter drainage on my lot?
Yes. Article 2 requires permits for grading, fill, and drainage alterations to ensure runoff does not impact neighbors or city infrastructure.
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