Charleston requires stormwater management plans and post-construction controls for sites disturbing more than half an acre, with sea level rise factored into design storm calculations citywide.
The City of Charleston Stormwater Design Standards Manual mandates that any site disturbing 0.5 acres or more submit a stormwater management plan demonstrating no net increase in peak runoff. Charleston uniquely requires designers to use a sea level rise adjustment of 2-3 feet in tidal floodplain calculations. Best management practices include bioretention, permeable pavement, and detention ponds. The Stormwater Management Department reviews plans before building permits issue. Charleston's coastal location and frequent nuisance flooding make stormwater compliance among the strictest in the Southeast.
Stop work orders, fines up to $500 per day, mandatory remediation, and bond forfeiture for unpermitted land disturbance or stormwater control failure.
Charleston, SC
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Charleston, SC
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Charleston, SC
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Charleston, SC
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Charleston, SC
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Charleston, SC
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See how Charleston's stormwater management rules stack up against other locations.
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