Stormwater Management: San Jose vs Sunnyvale
How do stormwater management rules compare between San Jose, CA and Sunnyvale, CA?
San Jose and Sunnyvale 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 →Sunnyvale, CA
Santa Clara County
Sunnyvale enforces stormwater controls under SMC Chapter 12.60 and the statewide Municipal Regional Permit. Only rain may enter storm drains; pollutants are prohibited.
View full Sunnyvale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | San Jose | Sunnyvale |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Code authority | - | SMC Chapter 12.60 + MRP |
| LID threshold | - | 2,500 sf impervious |
| Construction BMPs | - | SWPPP + silt fencing |
| Prohibited discharges | - | Soap, paint, sediment |
| Reporting | - | Public Works stormwater hotline |
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.
Sunnyvale FAQ
Can I wash my car in my driveway?
Yes for occasional residential washing, but commercial or fleet washing must drain to sanitary sewer, not the storm drain.
What counts as impervious surface?
Roofs, driveways, patios, and compacted surfaces that prevent water from soaking into the ground.
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