NPDES Permit Program

Public Works · Water Quality

NPDES Stormwater Program

Protecting Riverside’s waterways starts with a reliable storm drain system, practical pollution prevention and a community that understands what is at stake.

Regional watershed protection

The program

Protecting water quality throughout Riverside

The City maintains its Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System, or MS4, under the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit program.

The NPDES permit program is part of the Clean Water Act. It establishes requirements that help prevent pollutants carried by stormwater from reaching local waterways.

In collaboration with Riverside County Flood Control & Water Conservation District, the City uses several coordinated strategies to eliminate stormwater pollution and comply with federal, state and local regulations.

Public educationHelping residents and businesses understand how everyday actions affect waterways.
Best management practicesUsing proven methods to prevent and reduce pollutants in stormwater runoff.
Evaluation and monitoringTracking water quality and assessing the effectiveness of program activities.

Learn more about the City’s regional partnerships at Riverside County Watershed Protection.

The Santa Ana River flowing between dense green vegetation near Riverside
Santa Ana River near Riverside Riverside is part of the Santa Ana watershed. Stormwater moves through streets and the storm-drain network toward local streams and rivers, making pollution prevention throughout the City essential.