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Stormwater Management
Management of stormwater runoff has become an increasingly important responsibility for local governments like Richmond Hill. Existing State and Federal Stormwater Regulations, necessary infrastructure maintenance, and capital improvement projects have driven the need to implement a more comprehensive stormwater management program. The Richmond Hill Stormwater Management Program is responsible for the management and regulation of stormwater and drainage issues within the city.
Stormwater runoff is water that drains off rooftops, driveways, sidewalks, parking lots, roads, compacted soil, gravel, and other surfaces that prohibit the infiltration of rainfall into the ground. The stormwater runoff then flows into the city drainage system and, eventually, into our local streams and creeks. All developed properties in a community contribute stormwater runoff to the drainage system and, in some cases, to recurring drainage problems. In addition to flooding problems, stormwater runoff washes chemicals, debris, trash and other pollutants, into the drainage system and our local surface waters.
Our stormwater management program must undertake various activities including the cleaning of ditches and other stormwater conveyance systems; replacement of aging culverts and drainage structures; and construction of new culvert systems to increase or improve conveyance capacity.
STORMWATER MANAGEMENT ORDINANCE (PDF)
STORMWATER CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT SUMMARY & RECOMMENDATIONS (PDF)
STORMWATER MANAGEMENT PLAN (PDF)
POLLUTION PREVENTION GUIDEBOOK
A compendium of stormwater pollution prevention practices and protocols for use by government agencies, businesses and industries, institutions and the general public.
Developed by the Chatham County-Savannah Metropolitan Planning, this document provides specific guidance for Georgia’s coastal communities.
COASTAL STORMWATER SUPPLEMENT FAQ
To fund the Stormwater Management Program, Richmond Hill has in place a Stormwater Utility. The following documents relate to the Stormwater Utility Fee adopted by City Council on November 17, 2015:
SOUTHEAST STORMWATER ASSOCIATION
STORMWATER MANAGEMENT BROCHURE (PDF)
STORMWATER MANAGEMENT FAQs (PDF)
STORMWATER UTILITY ORDINANCE (PDF)
Illicit Discharge
Illicit discharges are any discharges to the storm sewer system that are not entirely composed of storm water. Illicit discharges are prohibited under the City of Richmond Hill Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permit.
When an illicit discharge (oils, soaps, grease, etc.) enter the MS4, it ultimately makes its way into local water bodies. Illicit discharges can be harmful to both plant and animal species and can negatively affect habitats. For more information, download our Illicit Discharge Brochure.
How can you help prevent an illicit discharge?
- Clean paint brushes in the sink, not outdoors.
- Do not use soaps or chemicals when power washing.
- Dispose of hazardous wastes (batteries, fluorescent bulbs, antifreeze, hydraulic fluid, oil etc.) according to state and federal regulations.
- Ensure that grease and cooking oil (new and used) are being managed and disposed of properly.
- Sweep up and compost or recycle yard wastes, do not blow it into the street.
How to Report a Stormwater Pollution Issue
If you observe someone illegally dumping into a storm drain or ditch, or have other stormwater-related concerns, please contact the Richmond Hill City Hall at 912-756-3345 or you may report your concern electronically.