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New Rochelle, NY Environmental Rules: Stormwater Management (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified April 2026

Key Facts

MS4
Permitted community
SWPPP
1+ acre projects
Illicit discharge
Prohibited
Outfalls
Drain to Sound

Summary

New Rochelle is an MS4 community under NYS DEC SPDES MS4 General Permit. Illicit discharge detection and elimination (IDDE) ordinance prohibits non-stormwater discharges to the storm sewer system. Construction sites disturbing 1+ acre need SWPPP.

The USEPA and New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) are increasing their attention in several ways. There are three State Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (SPDES) general permits required for activities associated stormwater discharges. The Multi-Sector General Permit for Stormwater Discharges Associated with Industrial Activities (MSGP) addresses stormwater runoff from certain industrial activities. This permit requires facilities to develop stormwater pollution prevention prevention plans (SWPPPs) and report the results of industry-specific monitoring to the NYSDEC on an annual basis. A federal regulation, commonly known as Stormwater Phase II, requires the General Permit for Stormwater Discharges from Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems (MS4 GP). MS4 Operators are required to develop a stormwater management program (SWMP) to reduce the discharge of pollutants to the maximum extent practicable. Construction activities disturbing one or more acres of soil must be authorized under the General Permit for Stormwater Discharges from Construction Activities (CGP). Permittees are required to develop a SWPPP to prevent discharges of construction-related pollutants to surface waters.

Source: State of New YorkView official code

Full Breakdown

Post-construction stormwater controls required for redevelopment projects. Green infrastructure encouraged. Dumping of pollutants, paint, oil, or yard waste into storm drains is prohibited. City conducts dry-weather outfall screening. This stormwater rule under New Rochelle's environmental ordinances applies to properties within New Rochelle city limits. For current statutory text, amendments, enforcement procedures, fines, appeal options, and any exemptions that may apply to your situation, contact New Rochelle code enforcement directly or consult the official New York municipal code library. Ordinances change periodically; always verify with local staff before relying on summary information.

Violations & Fines

Illicit discharge to storm sewer: fines and cleanup costs; repeat violations referred to NYS DEC.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wash my car in the driveway?
Personal car washing is generally allowed, but soapy water should not flow into storm drains. Commercial car washing must use collection systems.
Is it illegal to dump oil or paint in a New Rochelle storm drain?
Yes. The city's illicit discharge ordinance prohibits any non-stormwater discharge to the storm sewer, which drains directly to Long Island Sound. Violations carry significant fines.
Can I blow leaves into the street in New Rochelle?
No. Yard waste in the storm drain system is an illicit discharge under the MS4 ordinance. Bag or mulch leaves and use city yard-waste collection instead.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in New Rochelle

All New Rochelle rules

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