Tempe operates a comprehensive stormwater management program under its MS4 (Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System) permit from ADEQ. The city regulates stormwater quality and quantity through development standards, construction site controls, and public education. The Salt River, Tempe Town Lake, and Indian Bend Wash are primary receiving waters. Illicit discharges to the storm drain system are prohibited.
Tempe's stormwater management program operates under an AZPDES MS4 permit from the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality. The program addresses stormwater quality and quantity through six minimum control measures: public education, public participation, illicit discharge detection and elimination, construction site runoff control, post-construction stormwater management, and good housekeeping. Development projects must incorporate stormwater quality and quantity management into site design. Low Impact Development (LID) techniques are encouraged. The Salt River corridor (including Tempe Town Lake) and Indian Bend Wash are the primary receiving waters for Tempe's stormwater. Illicit discharges to the storm drain system (dumping oil, chemicals, wash water, or other pollutants) are prohibited under city ordinance. The city conducts dry-weather monitoring and responds to reports of illegal dumping. During monsoon season (July-September), flash flooding is a significant concern, and the city coordinates with the Flood Control District of Maricopa County.
Illicit discharges to the storm drain system may result in city enforcement action and state penalties under the Clean Water Act.
Tempe, AZ
Tempe regulates industrial noise through Chapter 20 (Noise) of the City Code and the Zoning and Development Code. Industrial uses must not generate noise exc...
Tempe, AZ
Tempe addresses barking dogs under both the noise ordinance (Chapter 20) and animal control regulations. Dogs that bark persistently and disturb neighbors ca...
Tempe, AZ
Tempe requires vehicles to park on approved hard surfaces such as concrete or asphalt driveways. Parking on dirt, gravel, or landscaped areas is prohibited. ...
Tempe, AZ
Tempe generally does not require a building permit for standard residential fences up to 6 feet in height. Fences exceeding 6 feet, masonry walls, and fences...
Tempe, AZ
Tempe's Zoning and Development Code regulates fence materials in residential zones. Common permitted materials include block, stucco, wrought iron, wood, vin...
Tempe, AZ
Tempe's zoning code limits residential fence heights to 6 feet in side and rear yards and 3 feet in front yards. Corner lots may have additional visibility t...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Maricopa County.
See how other cities in Maricopa County handle stormwater management.
See how Tempe's stormwater management rules stack up against other locations.
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