Regulations primarily come from federal guidelines and the regional MS4, which has few post-construction requirements.
Why does it matter?
Rain washes over everything– including pollutants. Common stormwater pollutants include:
Once these pollutants get into the storm drain system, they go straight to our local waterways without any treatment and can cause many negative impacts. Some of the harmful chemicals like motor oils, soaps, and pesticides are toxic not only to wildlife but also for our drinking water supply. Fertilizers can support harmful algae blooms. Decaying yard waste and pet waste can deplete the water of oxygen and kill fish. Pet waste also leads to increased bacterial contamination that can make water unsafe for swimming and other recreational activities.
1.5 Floodplain Management
The intent of these regulations is to leave watercourses in a natural condition. While this is the intent, the developer may, upon approval of the City Engineer, change the location of existing channels and thus the location of the floodplain subject to the requirements of Section 1.7 of these regulations.
All development must comply with Chapter 11 “Flood Prevention and Protection” of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Waco, Texas.
Fences will not be allowed inside floodplains.
If development is planned within a floodplain the developer must mitigate any adverse impact on any other property and redelineate the floodplain based on themitigation implemented.
The ultimate floodplain delineation shall be based on the watershed contributing to the design point assuming upstream properties provide adequate detention.
All floodplains shall be computed utilizing the computer software and methodologies outlined in the Storm Drainage Design Manual.
1.10 Maintenance
The City will maintain drainage facilities that serve more than one property. The property owner will maintain drainage facilities that serve one property.
Mowing will not require a permit; however no excavation may be performed nor fill placed in an easement or floodplain without a permit.
The City will perform major maintenance (e.g. dam maintenance, dredging) on detention facilities. The City will maintain drainage facilities, including mowing, within dedicated parks.
No maintenance may be performed within an identified wetlands prior to obtaining a permit from the US Army Corps of Engineers.