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🌍 Environmental Rules/Stormwater Management

Stormwater Management: Concord vs El Cerrito

How do stormwater management rules compare between Concord, CA and El Cerrito, CA?

Concord and El Cerrito have similar restriction levels.

Concord, CA

Contra Costa County

Heavy Restrictions

Concord prohibits all illicit discharges to the storm drain system under CMC Title 8 and MRP NPDES Permit R2-2022-0118. Violators face administrative fines starting at $100 and escalating to $1,000+ per day, plus full cleanup cost recovery.

View full Concord rules β†’

El Cerrito, CA

Contra Costa County

Heavy Restrictions

Illicit discharges to the storm drain system are prohibited in unincorporated Contra Costa County under Ordinance Code Chapter 1014-6 and the Municipal Regional Stormwater NPDES Permit. Violations carry administrative fines, cleanup costs, and potential prosecution.

View full El Cerrito rules β†’

Key Facts Comparison

FactConcordEl Cerrito
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Governing ordinance-CCC Ord. Chapter 1014-6
Permit basis-MRP NPDES Permit (R2-2022-0118)
Common prohibitions-Oil, paint, chlorinated pool water, sewage
Pool discharge rule-Dechlorinate or route to sanitary sewer
Reporting-Contra Costa Clean Water Program hotline

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

Concord FAQ

What counts as an illicit discharge?

Anything other than rain water going into the storm drain - wash water, paint, oil, pool water, pet waste, sediment, chemicals. Exempt items include residential car wash runoff and AC condensate.

What if I accidentally spilled something into the gutter?

Stop the source, contain with absorbent materials, and call Concord Public Works or the CCCWP hotline. Prompt cleanup reduces penalties.

Are HOA pool drains illicit discharges?

Yes unless dechlorinated, pH-neutral, and drained to landscaped areas. Pool water to the storm drain without treatment is a violation.

El Cerrito FAQ

Can I dump used motor oil or paint into the storm drain?

No. This is a serious violation of Chapter 1014-6 and state law. Take used oil and paint to a CCC household hazardous waste facility for free disposal.

How do I report someone dumping into a storm drain?

Call the Contra Costa Clean Water Program's public reporting line or submit a report online. Provide location, time, description, and photos if possible. Reports can be anonymous.

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