Stormwater Management: Orange vs Santa Ana
How do stormwater management rules compare between Orange, CA and Santa Ana, CA?
Orange has fewer restrictions than Santa Ana.
Orange, CA
Orange County
The City of Orange is mandated by federal NPDES permit R8-2009-0030 to implement stormwater runoff management programs. All development projects must comply with the city's Local Implementation Plan under the Orange County Drainage Area Management Plan.
View full Orange rules →Santa Ana, CA
Orange County
Santa Ana enforces stormwater management regulations under its Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permit issued by the Santa Ana Regional Water Quality Control Board. The city requires construction sites and new development to implement Best Management Practices to prevent pollutants from entering the storm drain system. Post-construction stormwater controls are mandated for qualifying projects under the Orange County NPDES permit.
View full Santa Ana rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Orange | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| NPDES Permit | R8-2009-0030 | - |
| WQMP Required | Most new development | - |
| LID Encouraged | Bioswales, permeable paving | - |
| Report Violations | (714) 744-5525 | - |
| Permit Type | - | NPDES MS4 permit |
| Regional Board | - | Santa Ana Regional Water Quality Control Board |
| BMP Required | - | Construction and post-construction BMPs |
| Contact | - | Public Works — (714) 647-5074 |
| County Permit | - | Orange County area-wide MS4 permit |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Orange FAQ
Can I wash my car in the driveway in Orange?
Water from car washing should not flow into storm drains carrying soap and pollutants. Use a commercial car wash or wash on a permeable surface that drains to landscaping.
What should I do about a storm drain spill?
Report spills or illegal discharges to the Public Works Department at (714) 744-5525 or Orange County storm water hotline.
Santa Ana FAQ
What stormwater rules apply to construction in Santa Ana?
All construction sites must implement Best Management Practices to prevent sediment and pollutants from entering the storm drain system. Larger projects require a SWPPP under the state Construction General Permit.
Does Santa Ana require post-construction stormwater controls?
Yes. New development and significant redevelopment must incorporate permanent stormwater treatment controls as required by the Orange County MS4 permit.
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