Stormwater Management: St. Petersburg vs Tarpon Springs
How do stormwater management rules compare between St. Petersburg, FL and Tarpon Springs, FL?
St. Petersburg and Tarpon Springs have similar restriction levels.
St. Petersburg, FL
Pinellas County
St. Petersburg operates a regulated stormwater management system under Chapter 27 Article IV with utility fees, quality controls, and connection requirements for new and redeveloped properties.
View full St. Petersburg rules →Tarpon Springs, FL
Pinellas County
Chapter 20, Article VI of the Tarpon Springs Code regulates stormwater management, including stormwater utility fees and an illicit-discharge prohibition that bars dumping pollutants, leaves, or yard waste into streets, storm drains, or waterways.
View full Tarpon Springs rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | St. Petersburg | Tarpon Springs |
|---|---|---|
| Code chapter | Ch. 27 Article IV | Chapter 20, Article VI |
| Utility | Stormwater fee on bill | - |
| Discharge rule | No increase post-development | - |
| Illicit discharges | Prohibited | - |
| Utility fee | - | Tied to ERU/impervious area |
| Illicit discharge | - | Prohibited city-wide |
| Yard waste in drains | - | Code violation |
| MS4 oversight | - | EPA/FDEP NPDES permit |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
St. Petersburg FAQ
Why does my St. Petersburg utility bill have a stormwater fee?
Chapter 27 Article IV authorizes a stormwater management utility fee that funds drainage, water-quality, and flood-mitigation projects citywide. All developed parcels are charged.
Can I drain my pool or wash water into a St. Petersburg storm drain?
No. Chemically treated pool water, soapy wash water, paint, and similar discharges are illicit under Chapter 27 and can trigger civil penalties and cleanup costs.
Tarpon Springs FAQ
Can I blow grass clippings into the street in Tarpon Springs?
No. Pushing or blowing leaves, grass, or other yard waste into the street, storm drain, or waterway is prohibited and can result in written notice, code enforcement, and fines.
Does my Tarpon Springs property pay a stormwater fee?
Yes. Most developed parcels pay a stormwater utility fee under Chapter 20 Article VI based on impervious area and equivalent residential units (ERUs).
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