(A) During the construction process, soil is highly vulnerable to erosion by wind and water. Eroded soil endangers water resources by reducing water quality and causing the siltation of aquatic habitats for fish and other species. Eroded soil also necessitates repair of sewers and ditches and the dredging of lakes. In addition, clearing and grading during construction cause the loss of native vegetation necessary for terrestrial and aquatic habitats. Following the completion of construction activities, dust, dirt, erosion, and runoff from developed areas (parking lots, driveways, rooftops, roadways, etc.) will continue to affect the storm water facilities and receiving streams unless post construction practices are implemented during construction and are maintained in perpetuity.
(B) As a result, the purpose of this chapter is to safeguard persons, protect property, and prevent damage to the environment within the city. This chapter will also promote public welfare by guiding, regulating and controlling the design, construction, use, and maintenance of any development or other activity that disturbs or breaks the topsoil or results in the movement of earth within the city.
(C) This chapter establishes minimum storm water management requirements and controls for the protection of general health, safety, and welfare of the public residing within the city. This chapter seeks to meet that purpose through the following objectives:
(1) Minimize increases in storm water runoff from any development in order to reduce flooding, siltation, increases in stream temperature, and stream bank erosion and maintain the integrity of stream channels;
(2) Minimize increases in nonpoint source pollution caused by storm water runoff from development which would otherwise degrade local water quality;
(3) Minimize the total annual volume of surface water runoff which flows from any specific site during and following development as not to exceed the predevelopment hydrologic regime to the maximum extent practicable; and
(4) Reduce storm water runoff rates and volumes, soil erosion, and nonpoint source pollution, wherever possible, through storm water management controls and to ensure that these management controls are properly maintained and pose no threat to public safety.
(Ord. 2004-13, passed 12-6-04; Am. Ord. 2007-5, passed 4-2-07)