Storm Water Program
Storm water is defined by US EPA as the runoff generated when precipitation from rain and snowmelt events flows over land or impervious surfaces without percolating into the ground. Storm water is often considered a nuisance because it mobilizes pollutants such as motor oil and trash. In most cases, storm water flows directly to water bodies through sewer systems, contributing a major source of pollution to rivers, lakes, and the ocean. Storm water discharges in California are regulated through National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits. However, storm water may also act as a resource and recharge to groundwater when properly managed. The Water Boards are actively involved in initiatives to improve the management of storm water as a resource. For more information read our Storm Water Management Fact Sheet
Announcements
The Federal Clean Water Act (Clean Water Act) prohibits certain discharges of storm water containing pollutants except in compliance with a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit. The NPDES stormwater program regulates some stormwater discharges from three potential sources: municipal separate storm sewer systems (MS4s), construction activities, and industrial activities.
View our Storm Water Permitting Program Pages:
Electronic Reporting
(Updated 03/26/2025)
Subscribe to our Email Lists
Storm Water Contacts
- General Inquiries:
stormwater@waterboards.ca.gov
Toll Free: 1-(866)-563-3107 - State and Regional Board Contact Information
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- Report a Non-Filer - Let us know if a business does not have a Storm Water Permit.
- Report a QSD/QSP (Construction General Permit Qualified SWPPP Developer/Qualified SWPPP Practitioner)
