Stormwater Program

Butte County implements a stormwater program consistent with the State Water Resources Control Board’s Phase II Small Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) General Permit (Order Number 2013-0001-DWQ) (Phase II Permit). Currently, Butte County's urbanized area adjacent to the City of Chico is covered by the Phase II Permit (View the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Phase II (MS4) Area Map (PDF))

The purpose of the stormwater program is to prevent and reduce the discharge of pollutants from the County’s urbanized areas and protect the quality of our local waterways. For tips on specific actions you can take to help prevent stormwater pollution, visit the Residents and Businesses, Construction, and Post-Construction subpages. 

Questions or comments regarding the Stormwater Management Program can be directed to Public Works.

NPDES Stormwater Drain Identifying Markers

No Dumping - Drains to Creek - A Blue Fish in the Middle of the TextThe County's Stormwater Program uses the markers shown on the storm drains. These markers are a reminder to protect Stormwater. An example of the marker can be seen on this page.

Related Links

  • California Phase II Storm Drain Lid Sizing Tool - This is a web-based tool that assists stormwater practitioners in selecting and sizing LID BMPs that meet requirements set forth in California’s NPDES permit for stormwater discharges from small (Phase II) MS4s.
  • Keep Chico Clean - Keep Chico Clean is a cooperative effort of the City of Chico and the Butte County Department of Public Works, Storm Water Management Programs (SWMP). The effort is designed to foster public awareness that the water in our gutters drains directly to our creeks, and to provide information on how to prevent runoff pollution of our local creeks and streams. Thank you for keeping our gutters clean!
  • State Water Resources Control Board - The State Water Resources Control Board (State Water Board) was created by the Legislature in 1967. The joint authority of water allocation and water quality protection enables the State Water Board to provide comprehensive protection for California's waters.