Bakersfield enforces stormwater regulations under BMC Chapter 8.34 (Industrial Stormwater) and Chapter 8.56 (Stormwater Management and Discharge Control). The city operates under an MS4 NPDES permit issued by the Central Valley Regional Water Quality Control Board. All discharges to the municipal storm drain system are regulated to prevent pollutants from reaching the Kern River and local waterways.
BMC Chapter 8.56 prohibits non-stormwater discharges to the city's storm drain system. Industrial facilities must comply with Chapter 8.34 and obtain appropriate state NPDES permits. New development and significant redevelopment must implement post-construction stormwater Best Management Practices (BMPs). Construction sites must file Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans (SWPPPs) and obtain coverage under the California Construction General Permit for sites disturbing one acre or more. The city's Public Works Department conducts inspections and enforces compliance.
Violations of BMC Chapter 8.56 constitute misdemeanors punishable by fines up to $1,000 per day and/or six months imprisonment. The city may issue administrative citations and cease-and-desist orders. Industrial violators under Chapter 8.34 face additional state penalties. Illicit discharges can trigger Clean Water Act enforcement by the Regional Water Board.
Bakersfield, CA
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Bakersfield, CA
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Bakersfield, CA
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Bakersfield, CA
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Bakersfield, CA
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Bakersfield, CA
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