Clearwater regulates site grading and drainage through Chapter 32 stormwater rules and the Community Development Code, requiring runoff to be managed on site without harming neighbors or the public storm system.
Site grading, fill, and drainage in Clearwater are reviewed under Chapter 32 Articles VI and X of the Code of Ordinances, which protect the city stormwater system, plus Article 3 development standards in the Community Development Code that address site design and stormwater treatment. Property owners may not redirect runoff onto adjacent parcels or block established drainage paths, and significant land alteration requires a city engineering review with stormwater calculations. Within the FEMA-mapped floodplain, Chapter 51 also limits fill and grading that would raise base flood elevations. The Engineering Department coordinates with Southwest Florida Water Management District permitting for larger projects.
Diverting runoff onto neighbors or unpermitted grading in Clearwater can result in code compliance citations, mandatory restoration, civil penalties typically up to $500 per day, and possible liability for downstream property damage.
Clearwater, FL
Chapter 32 of Clearwater's Code of Ordinances regulates stormwater through Articles VI and X, establishing the city's stormwater management program, utility ...
Clearwater, FL
Construction sites in Clearwater must implement erosion and sediment controls under Chapter 32 Article VI stormwater management rules and the development sta...
Clearwater, FL
Chapter 51 of Clearwater's Community Development Code regulates floodplain construction, requiring elevation, flood-resistant materials, and substantial impr...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Pinellas County.
See how other cities in Pinellas County handle grading & drainage.
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