Lodi, CA Environmental Rules: Stormwater Management (2026)
Key Facts
- Discharge rule
- Nothing but stormwater allowed
- Illicit connections
- Banned, even pre-existing ones
- Spill notice deadline
- 24 hours to city
- Max civil penalty
- $6,000 per day per violation
- Appeal deadline
- 10 days to public works director
- Criminal exposure
- Misdemeanor under § 1.08.010
Summary
Lodi bans any discharge other than stormwater into its storm drains, gutters and creeks citywide. Grass clippings, pet waste, wash water and construction runoff are named violations, and illicit connections to the storm drain system are flatly prohibited. Public Works can issue notices of violation, cease-and-desist orders and citations, and courts can impose civil penalties up to $6,000 per day per violation.
Except as provided in Section 13.14.060 of this chapter, it is unlawful for any person to make or cause to be made any non-stormwater discharge. ... It is unlawful for any person to cause either individually or jointly any discharge to the stormwater conveyance system which results in or contributes to a violation of this chapter and the city's MS4 NPDES permit. ... 7.Violations Constituting Misdemeanors. In addition to civil penalties provided for in this chapter, any violation of this chapter may be punishable as a misdemeanor as provided by Section 1.08.010 of this code. ... 4.Compensatory damages for loss or destruction to water quality, wildlife, fish and aquatic life not to exceed six thousand dollars per day, per occurrence in which such violations occur.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 68).
Full Breakdown
050). 060). 090). 120(B)). 120(C)). 420). 130). 450).
Violations & Fines
Violating Chapter 13.14 is punishable as a misdemeanor under Lodi Municipal Code § 1.08.010, and any resulting condition is separately declared a public nuisance the city can summarily abate at the owner's expense (§ 13.14.420(A)(7)-(8)). The city attorney can also sue civilly for an injunction, cleanup costs, and compensatory damages to water quality or wildlife of up to $6,000 per day, per violation (§ 13.14.420(B)(4)), plus recover the city's investigation and legal costs from the violator.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wash my car in my driveway in Lodi?
What if grass clippings blow into the street in Lodi?
How much can Lodi fine someone for illegal stormwater discharge?
Do construction sites need a stormwater plan in Lodi?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Lodi
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Stormwater Management in Nearby Cities
How other cities in San Joaquin County handle stormwater management.