A public hearing has been scheduled regarding a proposed ordinance that focuses on addressing pollution from existing land uses within the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Municipal Stormwater Permit Area.
Whatcom County officials have scheduled a public hearing for April 28, 2026, to consider an ordinance regarding stormwater pollution prevention. The ordinance focuses on land uses within the Whatcom County Washington Phase II Municipal Stormwater Permit Area and would require property owners to implement best management practices (BMPs) for pollution prevention or maintenance without waiting for a building or development permit application to trigger compliance.
An existing business that performs high-risk activities (e.g. vehicle washing, outdoor chemical storage) would be subject to inspections and mandatory operational BMPs, something currently required only after when applying for a building or development permit.
This ordinance … implements a source control program for existing development focused on addressing pollution from existing land use and activities that have the potential to release pollutants to the Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4).
– Whatcom County public notice (April 19, 2026)
To keep its National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit administered by Washington State Department of Ecology, the county is required to pass and enforce local ordinances requiring private property owners to control pollution at the source.
Discover more from Whatcom Business Journal
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Be First to Comment