Maryland Statewide Rule
Maryland Stormwater Management Act Statewide Standards
Key Facts
- Statute
- Environment 4-201 et seq.
- Design Standard
- ESD to MEP
- Manual
- MD Stormwater Design Manual
- Permit
- MS4 NPDES
- Penalty
- Up to $25,000/day
Summary
The Maryland Stormwater Management Act of 2007, codified at Environment Article 4-201 through 4-215, mandates environmental site design and runoff treatment for new development statewide through MDE-approved local programs.
By July 1, 1984, each county and municipality shall adopt ordinances necessary to implement a stormwater management program. These stormwater management programs shall be consistent with flood management plans, if any, developed under Title 5, Subtitle 8 of this article for a particular watershed, shall meet the requirements established by the Department under § 4-203 of this subtitle, and shall be consistent with the purposes of this subtitle.
Full Breakdown
Maryland Environment Article Title 4 Subtitle 2 requires every county and municipality to adopt stormwater ordinances meeting Maryland Department of the Environment minimum standards. Developers must implement Environmental Site Design (ESD) to the maximum extent practicable, treating runoff to recreate pre-development hydrology. The 2000 Maryland Stormwater Design Manual (updated periodically) prescribes practices like micro-bioretention, rain gardens, and permeable pavement. Phase II MS4 permits administered by MDE govern municipal separate storm sewer systems. Enforcement includes stop-work orders, restoration requirements, and penalties up to $25,000 per day.
Violations & Penalties
Stormwater violations may incur civil penalties up to $25,000 per day, criminal misdemeanor charges, mandatory restoration, and stop-work orders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ESD and when does it apply?
Do counties enforce stormwater rules locally?
Sources
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