Knoxville enforces a stormwater management ordinance protecting Tennessee, Holston, and French Broad rivers from polluted runoff, requiring permits for land disturbance and post-construction water quality controls.
Knoxville Engineering Department administers the Stormwater Ordinance under federal MS4 Phase I Permit. Land disturbing activities of one acre or more require a stormwater permit and approved Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan. Properties must control runoff using detention basins, bioswales, or pervious paving meeting the city Best Management Practices Manual. Illicit discharges into storm drains, including paint, soap, oil, or yard waste, are prohibited and reportable to the 311 hotline. Inspections occur during construction and annually for permanent BMPs.
Stop-work orders, daily fines up to 5,000 dollars, mandatory remediation, and TDEC referral for repeat or significant water-quality violations are possible.
Knoxville, TN
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Knoxville, TN
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Knoxville, TN
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Knoxville, TN
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Knoxville, TN
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Knoxville, TN
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See how Knoxville's stormwater management rules stack up against other locations.
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