Proposed updates to Clark County’s Stormwater Manual and related development codes are now available for public review on the county’s website, www.clark.wa.gov/stormwater. Residents have the opportunity to testify about the changes during public hearings before the Planning Commission (Oct. 15) and Board of County Councilors (Dec. 1). Meeting information is available at https://www.clark.wa.gov/environment.
The county revised the stormwater manual so that it is a stand-alone document compatible with local practices and meets standards mandated by the Department of Ecology.
“Clark County values protection of our creeks, streams and rivers from pollutants in stormwater,” said Don Benton, environmental services director for the county. “These updates meet all state requirements for stormwater protection while creating documents that make it easier for our customers to complete their development projects.”
The new manual consists of four sections: plan submittal; stormwater facility design; pollution control for businesses; and stormwater facility maintenance. The manual also includes a section for building small projects, such as single-family residences.
The main updates are to the stormwater and water quality codes. The code has been simplified by moving technical requirements to the stormwater manual. The county also has incorporated state-mandated changes for low impact development, such as permeable pavement and rain gardens that allow storm runoff to soak directly into the ground and replenish groundwater.
For more information, call 360.397.2121 or visit www.clark.wa.gov/stormwater.
