Stormwater Management: El Monte vs Long Beach
How do stormwater management rules compare between El Monte, CA and Long Beach, CA?
El Monte and Long Beach have similar restriction levels.
El Monte, CA
Los Angeles County
El Monte regulates stormwater under Municipal Code Chapter 13.16 (Stormwater Management) and Chapter 13.20 (Low Impact Development), implementing the Los Angeles County MS4 NPDES Permit (Order R4-2021-0105, CAS004004). Only uncontaminated stormwater may enter the storm drain system.
View full El Monte rules →Long Beach, CA
Los Angeles County
Long Beach's stormwater program under LBMC Ch. 8.96 prohibits non-stormwater discharge. Low Impact Development (LID) is required for projects adding 500+ sq ft. NPDES compliance is mandatory for all construction and development.
View full Long Beach rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | El Monte | Long Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Stormwater chapter | EMMC Chapter 13.16 | - |
| LID ordinance | Ord. 2840 (June 10, 2014), codified in Chapter 13.20 | - |
| MS4 permit | LA County Order R4-2021-0105 (NPDES CAS004004) | - |
| Watershed | Rio Hondo / San Gabriel River (WMP approved 2015) | - |
| Report illicit discharge | El Monte Public Works (626) 580-2087 | - |
| Max state civil penalty | $25,000/day (CA Water Code §13350) | - |
| LID Threshold | - | 500 sq ft or more |
| Code | - | LBMC Ch. 8.96, Ch. 18.74 |
| Non-Stormwater | - | Discharge prohibited |
| Federal Law | - | Clean Water Act NPDES |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
El Monte FAQ
Can I wash my car in my driveway in El Monte?
Occasional residential car-washing using a hose with shut-off and biodegradable soap is generally allowed; however, EMMC Chapter 13.16 prohibits any wash water containing detergents, oils, or chemicals from entering the storm drain. Wash on grass, or use a commercial car wash that recycles water.
Can I drain my pool to the street?
Only if dechlorinated, free of algaecides, and discharged to landscape - not directly to the storm drain. The MS4 Permit (R4-2021-0105) treats chlorinated pool water as an illicit discharge. Sanitary sewer discharge via an outside cleanout (with City approval) is preferred.
Do I need a SWPPP for my construction project?
Yes if your project disturbs 1 acre or more - California's General Construction Permit (Order 2022-0057-DWQ) requires a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan. Smaller El Monte projects must still comply with EMMC Chapter 13.20 LID requirements and may need an Erosion & Sediment Control Plan from the City Engineer.
Long Beach FAQ
Do I need a stormwater plan for my project?
Generally required for new construction and major renovations that increase impervious surface area. Small residential projects may be exempt.
What is an illicit discharge?
Any non-stormwater substance entering the storm drain system, including paint, oil, chemicals, or sediment. Report violations to Long Beach public works.
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