Stormwater Management: Green Valley vs Tucson
How do stormwater management rules compare between Green Valley, AZ and Tucson, AZ?
Green Valley and Tucson have similar restriction levels.
Green Valley, AZ
Pima County
Pima County enforces stormwater management through the Pima County Regional Flood Control District (RFCD) and the county MS4 permit under the Clean Water Act. The Sonoran Desert monsoon season (July-September) drives strict drainage and retention requirements. All new development must retain the first inch of stormwater on-site per county standards.
View full Green Valley rules →Tucson, AZ
Pima County
Tucson regulates stormwater through the Unified Development Code and Pima County Regional Flood Control District standards. All new development must retain the first inch of stormwater on-site using green infrastructure such as rain gardens, bioswales, and permeable surfaces. The city adopted a Water Harvesting Ordinance (Ordinance 10597) requiring commercial developments to meet 50% of landscape water demand through rainwater harvesting.
View full Tucson rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Green Valley | Tucson |
|---|---|---|
| Authority | Regional Flood Control District | - |
| Retention Standard | First 1 inch on-site | First inch of stormwater on-site |
| Permit Trigger | 1 acre or more disturbance | 1+ acre disturbance |
| Monsoon Season | July through September | - |
| Contact | RFCD 520-724-4600 | - |
| Governing Code | - | UDC Article 7; Ordinance 10597 |
| Rainwater Harvesting | - | 50% landscape demand for commercial |
| Enforcement | - | Tucson Water & PDSD |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Green Valley FAQ
What stormwater retention is required in Pima County?
New developments must retain the first inch of stormwater on-site. This is based on the 100-year, 2-hour storm standard. Retention basins, bioswales, and permeable surfaces are common compliance methods.
Do I need a stormwater permit for construction in Pima County?
Yes, if your project disturbs one acre or more. You must file an AZPDES Notice of Intent with ADEQ and implement a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) before breaking ground.
Who manages stormwater in unincorporated Pima County?
The Pima County Regional Flood Control District (RFCD) manages stormwater infrastructure, floodplain regulations, and drainage standards. Contact them at 520-724-4600.
Tucson FAQ
Does Tucson require rainwater harvesting?
Yes. Commercial developments must meet 50% of landscape water demand through rainwater harvesting under Ordinance 10597. Residential harvesting is encouraged through rebate programs but not mandated.
What stormwater retention is required for new development?
New development must retain the first inch of rainfall on-site using approved green infrastructure. A stormwater management plan must be submitted with development applications for sites disturbing one acre or more.
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