Stormwater Management: Clovis vs Selma
How do stormwater management rules compare between Clovis, CA and Selma, CA?
Clovis and Selma have similar restriction levels.
Clovis, CA
Fresno County
Clovis is a Phase II MS4 permittee under the State Water Board NPDES program. Only rainwater allowed in storm drains—no washwater, pool water, paint, or chemicals. New/redevelopment projects must manage post-construction runoff per the city's Stormwater Management Plan.
View full Clovis rules →Selma, CA
Fresno County
Selma prohibits pollutant discharges to the storm drain system under the Fresno-area NPDES permit. Construction projects over one acre need a SWPPP with erosion controls.
View full Selma rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Clovis | Selma |
|---|---|---|
| Permit | Phase II MS4 NPDES | - |
| LID Trigger | 5,000+ sq ft impervious | - |
| Outlet | Dry Creek → San Joaquin | - |
| Prohibited | Non-stormwater discharge | - |
| Fine | Up to $10,000/day | - |
| Permit Authority | - | Central Valley RWQCB |
| Flood Control District | - | Fresno Metropolitan FCD |
| SWPPP Required | - | Projects disturbing 1+ acres |
| Maximum Fine | - | Up to $10,000 per day per violation |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Clovis FAQ
Can I drain my pool into the street?
No. Pool water (chlorinated) is an illicit discharge. Drain to landscaping (after dechlorinating) or to the sanitary sewer through a permitted connection.
Is washing my car in the driveway legal?
Yes, residential car washing is allowed, though the city encourages using commercial washes that recycle water. Commercial/fleet washing must capture wash water.
Selma FAQ
Can I wash my car and let the water flow into the street drain in Selma?
Car washing on permeable surfaces like your lawn is preferred. Allowing soapy water or automotive fluids to flow into the storm drain system is considered an illicit discharge. Use a commercial car wash that recycles water or wash on a pervious surface.
What is a SWPPP and do I need one for my construction project?
A Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) is required for construction projects disturbing one or more acres. It identifies erosion and sediment control measures to prevent pollutants from entering the storm drain. Smaller projects must still implement basic erosion controls.
Who manages the storm drains in Selma?
The Fresno Metropolitan Flood Control District manages the regional stormwater infrastructure including storm drains and retention basins. The City of Selma is responsible for local compliance with the NPDES municipal stormwater permit.
Compare other topics
See how Clovis and Selma compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool