Spokane enforces strict stormwater rules under SMC 17D.060 and the NPDES Phase II MS4 permit. The Spokane-Rathdrum Aquifer (sole-source aquifer) and Spokane River require infiltration-based treatment. New development must manage runoff via the Spokane Regional Stormwater Manual.
Spokane operates under a Washington Department of Ecology NPDES Phase II Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permit. Spokane Municipal Code 17D.060 and the Spokane Regional Stormwater Manual require all new development and redevelopment disturbing 5,000 sq ft or more to install stormwater best management practices (BMPs), typically infiltration drywells, swales, or rain gardens. The Spokane Valley-Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer is a federally designated sole-source aquifer, making groundwater protection central. Discharges to the Spokane River are regulated under its TMDL for PCBs, dissolved oxygen, and temperature. Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) reduction projects are ongoing. Illicit discharges (paint, oil, soaps) into storm drains are prohibited and criminally enforceable.
Illicit discharge: up to $10,000/day under state law. Unpermitted development: stop-work orders, mitigation, and SEPA review.
Spokane, WA
Spokane has no municipal ordinance limiting lawn ornaments, statues, or yard art on private property. HOA architectural guidelines under RCW 64.38 apply in m...
Spokane, WA
Spokane has no municipal ordinance limiting inflatable holiday decorations on private property. HOA architectural rules under RCW 64.38 apply in master-plann...
Spokane, WA
Spokane has no municipal ordinance limiting holiday lights on private residential property. Restrictions come from HOA architectural rules under Washington's...
Spokane, WA
Permanent outdoor kitchens in Spokane require building, plumbing, electrical, and/or gas permits under SMC Chapter 17F.040 (which adopts the International Re...
Spokane, WA
Spokane treats outdoor smokers as open-flame cooking devices under International Fire Code 308.1.4 as adopted in SMC Chapter 17F.080. Multifamily balcony 10-...
Spokane, WA
Spokane adopts the International Fire Code under SMC Chapter 17F.080. IFC 308.1.4 prohibits open-flame cooking on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of ...
See how Spokane's stormwater management rules stack up against other locations.
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