Surprise enforces stormwater management requirements for new development and construction sites. The city holds an MS4 (Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System) permit from ADEQ. Construction sites over 1 acre must obtain an Arizona Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (AZPDES) permit.
The City of Surprise manages stormwater under its MS4 permit from the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ). New development must include stormwater retention and drainage plans to manage runoff on-site and prevent flooding of adjacent properties. Construction sites disturbing 1 or more acres must obtain an AZPDES Construction General Permit and implement a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP). Post-construction stormwater controls are required for commercial and multifamily development. Residential property owners must maintain drainage features on their lots and may not block or redirect natural drainage patterns. Desert retention basins are a common stormwater feature in Surprise neighborhoods. Illegal dumping into storm drains is prohibited β storm drains flow directly to desert washes without treatment. Contact Public Works at (623) 222-1300 for stormwater issues.
Construction sites without SWPPP or AZPDES permits face ADEQ enforcement and fines. Illicit discharge to storm drains is a violation of city code and the Clean Water Act. Development without proper drainage plans will not receive permits.
Surprise, AZ
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Surprise, AZ
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Surprise, AZ
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Surprise, AZ
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Maricopa County.
See how other cities in Maricopa County handle stormwater management.
See how Surprise's stormwater management rules stack up against other locations.
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