Project and Business Requirements
Stormwater Requirements for Homeowners, Businesses, and Development
Stormwater regulations apply to many property improvements, construction activities, and commercial operations in Santa Cruz. These requirements help reduce flooding, protect water quality, and prevent pollutants from entering the storm drain system.
Whether you are a homeowner planning a remodel or adding new hard surfaces, a business owner operating outdoors or managing waste, a contractor overseeing construction, or a developer planning residential or commercial projects, you are responsible for preventing sediment, wash water, chemicals, and debris from entering streets and storm drains.
Requirements vary based on the type and size of your project or operation. Select the section below to learn what applies to you.
Homeowners and Single-Family Projects
If you are planning a remodel, addition, driveway expansion, or landscaping project, stormwater requirements may apply, especially if your project adds new hard surfaces that prevent rain from soaking into the ground.
Retail and Commercial Businesses
All businesses must prevent pollutants from entering storm drains and the sanitary sewer system. Requirements apply to outdoor operations, wash water, material storage, and waste management.
Business Requirements
Businesses are expected to:
- Keep outdoor areas clean.
- Prevent wash water from entering streets or gutters.
- Properly store materials, chemicals, and waste.
- Follow required Best Management Practices (BMPs).
Additional requirements may apply to food service facilities, vehicle service operations, industrial sites, and businesses with outdoor material storage or fueling areas.
Best Management Practices (BMPs)
Development and Construction Projects
New development and redevelopment projects must incorporate stormwater design measures that reduce runoff and prevent pollution.
Development and Construction Requirements
Projects may be subject to stormwater standards if they involve:
- New commercial or multi-family construction
- Significant redevelopment
- Increased impervious surface area
- Grading or soil disturbance
Depending on the project, requirements may include installing stormwater treatment features, submitting stormwater design plans, recording maintenance agreements, and providing ongoing maintenance documentation.
All construction sites, including residential projects, must prevent sediment, debris, and wash water from entering streets and storm drains.
Required Best Management Practices (BMPs)
Need Assistance?
If you are unsure which requirements apply to your project or business, City staff can help before you begin work.