Stormwater Management: Gaithersburg vs Takoma Park
How do stormwater management rules compare between Gaithersburg, MD and Takoma Park, MD?
Gaithersburg and Takoma Park have similar restriction levels.
Gaithersburg, MD
Montgomery County
Gaithersburg enforces stringent stormwater management requirements under its NPDES Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permit administered through Montgomery County DEP and the WSSC service area. All development and redevelopment projects disturbing 5,000 square feet or more must implement environmental site design to the maximum extent practicable. Residential properties must manage stormwater runoff on site.
View full Gaithersburg rules →Takoma Park, MD
Montgomery County
Takoma Park enforces stormwater management requirements under Montgomery County Chapter 19 and the city's own environmental priorities. Any development disturbing 5,000 or more square feet of land requires a stormwater management plan. The county requires environmental site design using techniques like rain gardens, permeable pavement, and green roofs to manage runoff at the source. Takoma Park actively promotes rain barrel programs and green infrastructure.
View full Takoma Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Gaithersburg | Takoma Park |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Program | NPDES MS4 | - |
| Disturbance Threshold | 5,000 sq ft triggers requirements | - |
| Design Standard | Environmental Site Design (ESD) | - |
| County DEP | (240) 777-7770 | - |
| Public Works | (301) 258-6370 | 301-891-7633 |
| Trigger | - | 5,000+ sq ft land disturbance |
| Method | - | Environmental site design required |
| Rain Barrels | - | City distributes free periodically |
| Fine | - | Up to $5,000/day for violations |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Gaithersburg FAQ
When is stormwater management required in Gaithersburg?
Any development or redevelopment project disturbing 5,000 square feet or more must implement environmental site design stormwater management practices. This applies to new construction, additions, and significant grading.
Who reviews stormwater plans in Gaithersburg?
Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection reviews stormwater management plans under Chapter 19 of the County Code, even for projects within Gaithersburg city limits.
Can I discharge pool or wash water into storm drains?
No. Discharging pool chemicals, wash water, or any non-stormwater substance into storm drains is prohibited under the MS4 permit and can result in fines up to $10,000 per day.
Takoma Park FAQ
When is a stormwater management plan required in Takoma Park?
A plan is required for any project disturbing 5,000 or more square feet of land. The plan must be approved by Montgomery County before a building permit is issued.
What stormwater techniques are required?
Maryland requires environmental site design to the maximum extent practicable, including rain gardens, permeable pavement, bio-retention, and green roofs to manage rainfall at the source.
Does Takoma Park offer any stormwater programs for residents?
Yes. The city periodically distributes free rain barrels, promotes native plant landscaping, and encourages green infrastructure as part of Chesapeake Bay restoration efforts.
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