Clearwater vs Tarpon Springs
How do stormwater management rules compare between Clearwater, FL and Tarpon Springs, FL?
Tarpon Springs 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 →Tarpon Springs, FL
Pinellas County
Chapter 20, Article VI of the Tarpon Springs Code regulates stormwater management, including stormwater utility fees and an illicit-discharge prohibition that bars dumping pollutants, leaves, or yard waste into streets, storm drains, or waterways.
View full Tarpon Springs rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Clearwater | Tarpon Springs |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Code chapter | - | Chapter 20, Article VI |
| Utility fee | - | Tied to ERU/impervious area |
| Illicit discharge | - | Prohibited city-wide |
| Yard waste in drains | - | Code violation |
| MS4 oversight | - | EPA/FDEP NPDES permit |
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.
Tarpon Springs FAQ
Can I blow grass clippings into the street in Tarpon Springs?
No. Pushing or blowing leaves, grass, or other yard waste into the street, storm drain, or waterway is prohibited and can result in written notice, code enforcement, and fines.
Does my Tarpon Springs property pay a stormwater fee?
Yes. Most developed parcels pay a stormwater utility fee under Chapter 20 Article VI based on impervious area and equivalent residential units (ERUs).
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