Temporary Storm Drainage System Permits

The City's storm drain system is designed to carry rainfall runoff and other natural drainage. The runoff is collected and conveyed through a system of underground pipes, open ditches, and natural waterways before flowing into Lake Merritt or the San Francisco Bay. With a few exceptions, only rainwater should enter the City's storm drain system. In the instances where non-rainwater is allowed to be discharged, the City requires a Temporary Storm Drain Discharge Permit.

The Temporary Storm Drain Discharge Permit application must describe the type of discharge proposed and the quality and quantity of water to be discharged.

The application must also demonstrate proof of compliance with other permitting requirements such as additional National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) or California Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) permitting. The applicant must ensure all permitting requirements are met. See Do I need a NPDES Permit? for more information.

City staff will review the application to ensure water quality goals are maintained and that the proposed discharge will not overwhelm the City's storm drain system.

An approved permit specifies the conditions under which water may be discharged into the City's storm drain system. Permits are issued for a specified duration and tailored to each applicant.

Discharges to the City's sanitary sewer require a Temporary Discharge to Sanitary Sewer System Permit.