Stormwater Management: San Jose vs Santa Clara
How do stormwater management rules compare between San Jose, CA and Santa Clara, CA?
San Jose and Santa Clara have similar restriction levels.
San Jose, CA
Santa Clara County
San Jose enforces strict stormwater management under Municipal Code Chapter 20.95 and the Santa Clara Valley Urban Runoff Pollution Prevention Program (SCVURPPP) NPDES permit. All new development and redevelopment projects disturbing 10,000+ sq ft must implement post-construction stormwater treatment per the C.3 provisions. Low Impact Development (LID) measures such as bioretention, pervious paving, and green roofs are required. Illicit discharges to the storm drain system are prohibited under SJMC §20.95.300.
View full San Jose rules →Santa Clara, CA
Santa Clara County
Santa Clara enforces the Municipal Regional Stormwater Permit (MRP 3.0) with C.3 treatment for new development over 10,000 square feet of impervious surface.
View full Santa Clara rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | San Jose | Santa Clara |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | SJMC Chapter 20.95 | - |
| Threshold | 10,000 sq ft impervious surface triggers C.3 requirements | - |
| Design Storm | 85th percentile 24-hour rainfall event | - |
| NPDES Permit | Municipal Regional Stormwater Permit (MRP) | - |
| Program | SCVURPPP regional collaboration | SCVURPPP under Bay Area MRP 3.0 |
| C.3 Trigger | - | 10,000 sq ft new/replaced impervious surface |
| Construction Permit | - | State CGP required over 1 acre |
| Illicit Discharge | - | No soapy water, paint, or slurry in storm drains |
| Contact | - | Public Works (408) 615-3000 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
San Jose FAQ
Do I need a stormwater plan for my home remodel?
If your project creates or replaces 10,000+ sq ft of impervious surface, you must implement C.3 stormwater treatment measures. Smaller projects may still need erosion controls during construction.
Can I wash my car on my driveway?
Washing vehicles on paved surfaces where runoff enters the storm drain is discouraged. Use a commercial car wash or wash on a permeable surface where water infiltrates the ground.
Santa Clara FAQ
Can I wash my car in my driveway?
Yes, but use minimal water and biodegradable soap, and avoid letting runoff enter the storm drain.
Does a patio addition trigger stormwater review?
Large additions approaching 10,000 square feet of impervious surface trigger C.3; most residential additions are below that.
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