Stormwater Management: Duluth vs Suwanee
How do stormwater management rules compare between Duluth, GA and Suwanee, GA?
Duluth and Suwanee have similar restriction levels.
Duluth, GA
Gwinnett County
Duluth is a Phase II MS4 under the Gwinnett County MS4 permit. Post-construction stormwater controls required for new development; Illicit Discharge prohibited.
View full Duluth rules →Suwanee, GA
Gwinnett County
Suwanee is a Phase II MS4 permittee under GAEPD NPDES Permit GAR041000. Post-construction stormwater required for sites disturbing 1+ acre per GA Stormwater Management Manual. Water quality (WQv) and channel protection (CPv) volumes must be managed.
View full Suwanee rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Duluth | Suwanee |
|---|---|---|
| MS4 | Phase II — Gwinnett County system | - |
| Design Manual | GA Stormwater Manual (Blue Book) | - |
| WQv | 1.2 inch runoff treatment | - |
| Illicit Discharge | Prohibited — fines to $1,000/day | - |
| MS4 Permit | - | GAR041000 |
| Code | - | Ch. 34 Art. III |
| Manual | - | GA Blue Book |
| Threshold | - | 1+ acre |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Duluth FAQ
Can I wash my car in the driveway?
Occasional residential car washing is allowed, but commercial washing that discharges to storm drains is prohibited. Use biodegradable soap and wash on grass when possible.
What can go into Duluth storm drains?
Only rain. Oil, paint, detergents, and yard waste are illicit discharges subject to fines up to $1,000 per day.
Does new construction in Duluth need stormwater controls?
Yes. Development must meet water quality volume (1.2 inch runoff) and channel protection standards per the Georgia Stormwater Manual.
Suwanee FAQ
Can I pour paint into a storm drain?
No. Storm drains discharge directly to Suwanee Creek. Illicit discharges carry fines up to $1,000 plus cleanup costs.
Does Suwanee require a stormwater detention pond for new construction?
Yes, for sites disturbing 1+ acre. Water quality and channel protection volumes must be managed per the Georgia Blue Book.
Who do I report illicit discharges to in Suwanee?
Report to Suwanee Public Works. The city is a Phase II MS4 permittee and must investigate illicit discharges under its GAEPD permit.
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