Stormwater Management: Urban Honolulu vs Waipahu

Do Urban Honolulu tower projects need post-construction stormwater controls?

Yes. City water quality rules require permanent treatment such as bioretention, cisterns, or media filters for qualifying new and redevelopment projects, on top of construction-phase BMPs.

Can my condo discharge cooling-tower blowdown to the storm drain?

No. Sec. 43-11.22 prohibits non-stormwater discharges including cooling tower blowdown, which must be routed to sanitary sewer under a permit rather than the MS4.

What is an illicit stormwater discharge in Waipahu?

Any non-stormwater flow into the city storm drain, such as soapy water, chemicals, paint, or wastewater, is classified as an illicit discharge prohibited under Sec. 43-11.22.

What if my business rinses equipment outside?

Outdoor rinsing that drains to a storm inlet violates Sec. 43-11.22. Rinse water must be captured, directed to sanitary sewer with permission, or contained to prevent storm drain entry.