Stormwater Management Division

As our town grew in the past, we reduced natural areas that filtered and held stormwater. Impervious surfaces like roads, parking lots and buildings increased runoff which leads to flash flooding, water pollution and erosion. 

Regulations now require new development to implement stormwater management strategies to reduce post-construction runoff and to capture sediment, nitrogen and phosphorus in runoff.  Structures which are properly planned, constructed and maintained, can help to mitigate flooding and water pollution. 

There are many ways all of us can contribute to cleaner water, simply by respecting that storm drains are just for rain, not for dumping or waste disposal.  We also need to understand that whatever is on the ground can wash off into our waterways.   Learn more

• Mission of the Stormwater Management Division:
  1) protect the health and safety of both the public and the ecosystem;
  2) address both stormwater quality and quantity concerns; and
  3) meet or exceed federal and state mandates regarding stormwater runoff and discharge.

NPDES Permit: Urban areas are required by federal and state law, to abide by regulations of a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit. The Town of Chapel Hill received its permit in July 2005.

Jordan Lake Rules: In August 2009, the North Carolina General Assembly passed the Jordan Lake Nutrient Management Strategy.  The rules mandate reducing pollution from wastewater discharges, stormwater runoff, agriculture and fertilizer application in both new and existing development.  Implementation of new buffer (streamside vegetation) requirements in the Jordan Lake watershed is a cornerstone of the rules.   More information       

Stormwater Utility & Fees

Billing & Funding