Maricopa County requires stormwater management for development in unincorporated areas. The FCDMC Drainage Policies and Standards Manual sets requirements for stormwater capture, retention, and conveyance. Construction projects over 1 acre require an AZPDES stormwater permit from ADEQ. Projects must retain the first flush on-site and demonstrate adequate drainage to prevent downstream flooding.
Stormwater management in unincorporated Maricopa County is governed by the FCDMC Drainage Policies and Standards Manual and ADEQ's AZPDES permit program. Construction projects disturbing one or more acres must obtain an AZPDES Construction General Permit from ADEQ and prepare a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) that includes erosion controls, sediment basins, and construction entrance stabilization. Post-construction stormwater retention is required, with developments typically needing to retain the 100-year, 2-hour storm event on-site. The county's monsoon season (June through September) produces intense rainfall that can overwhelm inadequate drainage systems, making compliance especially important. FCDMC maintains an extensive system of dams, channels, and retention basins throughout the county and reviews all development plans for stormwater compliance.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Maricopa County code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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See how Maricopa County's stormwater management rules stack up against other locations.
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