Temecula Municipal Code Chapter 8.28 prohibits non-stormwater discharges into the MS4 storm drain system, which flows untreated into Murrieta Creek and the Santa Margarita River. Property owners must implement BMPs to prevent pollutants from entering storm drains. Construction sites disturbing 1+ acre require a SWPPP and coverage under the State Construction General Permit. Violations carry fines up to $1,000 per day.
Temecula complies with the Santa Ana Regional Water Quality Control Board MS4 permit and prohibits illicit discharges to the storm drain system under TMC Chapter 8.28. Common prohibited discharges include car wash water entering streets, pool/spa drainage with chlorine, paint or concrete washout, motor oil, pesticide runoff, and sediment from landscaping. Residential car washing on driveways is allowed if biodegradable soap is used and runoff is minimized. Construction projects disturbing one or more acres must obtain coverage under the California Construction General Permit (Order 2022-0057-DWQ) and develop a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP). Smaller sites must still implement erosion and sediment controls. New development and significant redevelopment projects must comply with the Riverside County Water Quality Management Plan (WQMP), incorporating Low Impact Development (LID) features such as bioretention basins, permeable pavement, and infiltration trenches. The City inspects commercial and industrial sites for compliance and responds to complaints via the storm drain hotline. Penalties include administrative fines, stop-work orders, and referral to the Regional Board for civil action. Murrieta Creek is a 303(d)-listed impaired waterbody, increasing regulatory scrutiny.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Temecula code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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