Sacramento enforces comprehensive stormwater management under City Code Chapter 13.16 (Stormwater Management and Discharge Control). The City operates under an NPDES Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permit issued by the Central Valley Regional Water Quality Control Board. All new development and redevelopment projects must implement post-construction stormwater quality controls, and illicit discharges to the storm drain system are strictly prohibited.
The City's Stormwater Quality Improvement Plan requires projects creating or replacing 5,000+ sq ft of impervious surface to implement hydromodification management and stormwater treatment measures. Low Impact Development (LID) measures including bioretention, permeable pavement, and infiltration basins are required for qualifying projects. Construction sites must maintain a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) with best management practices (BMPs) for erosion and sediment control. The Sacramento Stormwater Quality Partnership coordinates regional compliance.
Violations of stormwater regulations can result in administrative penalties up to $1,000 per day for the first violation and up to $10,000 per day for subsequent violations. The City may also issue cease-and-desist orders, require corrective action, and refer violations to the Regional Water Quality Control Board for additional enforcement.
Sacramento, CA
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Sacramento, CA
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Sacramento, CA
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Sacramento, CA
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Sacramento, CA
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Sacramento County.
See how other cities in Sacramento County handle stormwater management.
See how Sacramento's stormwater management rules stack up against other locations.
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