Stormwater Quality

Stormwater runoff is generated when precipitation from rain and snow-melt events flows over land or impervious surfaces and does not percolate into the ground. As the runoff flows over the land or impervious surfaces (paved streets, parking lots, and building rooftops), it accumulates debris, chemicals, sediment or other pollutants that could adversely affect water quality if the runoff is discharged untreated. The primary method to control stormwater discharges is the use of best management practices (BMPs). The quality of the nation's waters are protected by the Clean Water Act (CWA). 

Phase I of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) stormwater program provided permit coverage to medium and large municipal separated storm sewer systems (MS4s) generally serving population of 100,000 or greater, construction activity disturbing 5 acres of land or greater, and ten additional categories of industrial activity. Phase II of the EPA stormwater program expands the Phase I program by requiring additional operators of MS4s in urbanized areas and operators of small construction sites to implement programs and practices to control polluted stormwater runoff.

Carson City has developed, implemented and enforced a stormwater management program designed to reduce the discharge of pollutants from the MS4 to the maximum extent practicable (MEP), to protect water quality and to satisfy the appropriate water quality requirements of the Clean Water Act.

The Nevada Department of Environmental Protection (NDEP) requirements for a small MS4 General Permit include the six minimum control measures included in the EPA Phase II NPDES program and special conditions for discharges to water quality impaired water. The six measures are:

1. Public Education and Outreach
2. Public Participation and Involvement
3. Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination
4. Construction Site Runoff Control
5. Post-Construction Runoff Control
6. Pollution Prevention/Good Housekeeping

You can help reduce pollution by removing trash and debris from streets, wetponds, culverts and inlets. Recycle used motor oil. Scoop the poop from your pooch, picking up after your dog will prevent waste from polluting our water facilities. Bag or compost grass clippings and yard waste.

The City Can Determine The Relationship Of A Particular Property To The Floodplain.