Clearwater vs Seminole
How do stormwater management rules compare between Clearwater, FL and Seminole, FL?
Clearwater and Seminole have similar restriction levels.
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 →Seminole, FL
Pinellas County
The City of Seminole regulates stormwater quantity, quality, and pollution prevention through its Land Development Code in coordination with Pinellas County NPDES MS4 permit obligations and Southwest Florida Water Management District rules.
View full Seminole rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Clearwater | Seminole |
|---|---|---|
| Authority | Code Chapter 32 Articles VI and X | Land Development Code Subpart B |
| Federal layer | NPDES MS4 permit | - |
| Funding | Stormwater utility fee | - |
| Prohibited | Illicit non-stormwater discharges | - |
| Receiving waters | Tampa Bay, Intracoastal | - |
| Federal permit | - | NPDES MS4 (Pinellas) |
| State permit | - | SWFWMD ERP |
| Treatment | - | Required post-construction |
| Illicit discharge | - | Prohibited |
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.
Seminole FAQ
Do I need a stormwater permit to build a home addition in Seminole?
Small additions usually do not need a separate stormwater permit, but additions that increase impervious area beyond thresholds require treatment and may trigger SWFWMD Environmental Resource Permit review.
Can I drain my pool or pressure-wash water into the storm drain?
No. Discharging chlorinated pool water, pressure-wash residue, or chemicals into Seminole storm drains is an illicit discharge under NPDES MS4 rules and can trigger fines.
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