Stormwater, Erosion and Sedimentation Control

Changes in the quality and quantity of stormwater runoff resulting from land development can be one of the most significant threats to the integrity of local streams, ponds, and lakes. This runoff carries sediment and pollutants (such as petroleum products and pesticides) into water bodies, can exacerbate the erosion of hillsides, streambanks, and streambeds, and can clog downstream waterbodies with debris. All of these effects can negatively impact fish and wildlife habitats, increase flooding, and threaten bridges and other property near streams.

By adopting stormwater, erosion, and sediment control ordinances and guidelines, a community can retain valuable soils, reduce flooding, protect water quality, and preserve the aesthetics of the community. A municipality can include these regulations as part of its subdivision or site design review process, or it may choose to implement a stand-alone law regulating stormwater and/or erosion and sedimentation.

Communities may also consider requiring developers to address stormwater issues through landscaping techniques that rely on grassy areas and native vegetation to help absorb stormwater and filter its pollutants. Protecting or replanting native vegetation along streambanks and around wetlands can also help protect water quality and wildlife habitat.