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Ventura County, CA Environmental Rules: Stormwater Management (2026)

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Verified 1 month ago|Source: Ventura County Watershed Protection District →

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Key Facts

Permit: Ventura County MS4 NPDES
LID: Required for new development
Illicit Discharge: Prohibited
Watershed District: (805) 654-2001
Dumping Report: (805) 654-2001

City-specific rules exist: Port Hueneme, Camarillo, Fillmore, Oxnard, Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks, Moorpark, Santa Paula, and Ventura have their own stormwater management rules that differ from Ventura County's county-level regulations. If you live in one of those cities, check the city-specific page instead.

Summary

Unincorporated Ventura County is covered by the Ventura County MS4 NPDES Permit for stormwater management. All development must comply with stormwater quality standards. Illicit discharge to storm drains is prohibited.

Full Breakdown

The Ventura County Watershed Protection District manages stormwater infrastructure. New development and significant redevelopment must comply with stormwater quality standards and Low Impact Development (LID) requirements. Commercial and industrial facilities must implement Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans. Illicit discharge of anything other than stormwater into the storm drain system is prohibited. The county's grading and building permit processes include stormwater review. Report illegal dumping to (805) 654-2001.

Violations & Fines

Illicit discharge to storm drains carries administrative fines and potential Regional Water Quality Control Board penalties up to $10,000/day. Failure to implement required stormwater controls may result in withholding of building permits.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can go into storm drains in Ventura County?

Only stormwater. Discharge of chemicals, wash water, paint, oil, or other pollutants is prohibited. Storm drains flow directly to rivers and the ocean.

What are LID standards?

Low Impact Development standards require on-site stormwater retention through bioswales, permeable paving, or rain gardens for new construction and major renovations.

How do I report illegal dumping?

Contact the Ventura County Watershed Protection District at (805) 654-2001.

How does Ventura County compare?

See how Ventura County's stormwater management rules stack up against other locations.

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Ventura County, CA Environmental Rules: Stormwater Management (2026)

Key Facts

Summary

Full Breakdown

Violations & Fines

Frequently Asked Questions

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