(A) The purpose of this chapter is to provide for the health, safety and general welfare of the citizens of the town through the regulation of non-stormwater discharges to the storm drainage system to the maximum extent practicable as required by federal and state law. This chapter establishes methods for controlling the introduction of pollutants into the municipal separate storm sewer system (MS4) in order to comply with requirements of the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit process.
(B) This stormwater management chapter provides the minimum content for implementing and enforcing the state’s stormwater management program consistent with the Conn. Gen. Stat. §§ 7-148(c)(8)(A)l, 8-2(a)2, 8-253, 22a-36 to 22a-454 inclusive and 8-2(b)5. This chapter provides guidance to establish minimum criteria for municipal code development. While all local development review and approval processes are unique, this document helps ensure that all stormwater management regulations contain the minimum requirements for effective program implementation.
(C) The objectives of this chapter are:
(1) To regulate the contribution of pollutants to the municipal separate storm sewer system (MS4) by stormwater discharges by any user;
(2) To prohibit illicit connections and discharges to the municipal separate storm sewer system; and
(3) To establish legal authority to carry out all inspection, surveillance and monitoring procedures necessary to ensure compliance with this chapter.
(Ord. passed 7-14-2008)
Editor’s note:
1 Municipal Powers: The municipality has the power to provide for the protection and improvement of the environment including, but not limited to, coastal areas, wetlands and areas adjacent to waterways in a manner not inconsistent with the general statutes.
2 Regulations: The Zoning Commission is authorized to adopt regulations “...to secure safety from ...flood and other dangers; to promote health and the general welfare...”
3 Subdivision of land: Authorizes the Zoning Commission to see “...that proper provision shall be made for... drainage...” and “that proper provision shall be made for protective flood control measures...”
4 Wetlands and Watercourses Act
5 In any municipality that is contiguous to Long Island Sound, the regulations adopted under this section shall be made with reasonable consideration for restoration and protection of the ecosystem and habitat of Long Island Sound and shall be designed to reduce hypoxia, pathogens, toxic contaminants and floatable debris in Long Island Sound. These regulations shall provide that the Zoning Commission considers the environmental impact on Long Island Sound of any proposal for development.