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NPDES

Proposed Stormwater Quality Ordinances for New Development in Compliance with Phase II National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES)

The City of Olathe is in the process of developing standards and ordinances that will require new development projects - both public and private - to treat stormwater runoff and preserve natural stream corridors. The requirements are mandated by the Environmental Protection Agency to comply with the city's National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit.  These proposed changes will result in cleaner water in our lakes and streams and reflect the City's commitment to build a more environmentally sustainable community.  The City will host a series of public and stakeholder input meetings to allow interested groups and individuals the chance to comment on the proposed changes.

Proposed Ordinances and Standards

The City is in the initial stages of developing the below ordinances and standards and has retained Olsson Associates to assist in the process.  The Draft Executive Summary is available.

Stream Buffer Ordinance

  • Natural stream corridors will be preserved and only select land disturbance activities will be allowed within the dedicated corridor.
  • Buffer widths may vary depending on size and quality of stream.

Post-Construction Stormwater Treatment Ordinance and Standards

  • Requirements shall apply to all land disturbance activities greater than one acre.
  • Best management practices (BMPs) for water quality will be required in all preliminary development plans. The BMPs will generally be natural landscaped elements, located within common open space, that infiltrate and filter stormwater runoff.  Examples include wetlands, vegetated swales, rain gardens and native prairie grasses. 
  • The anticipated design standard is the latest edition of the Mid-America Regional Council and American Public Works Association Manual of Best Management Practices for Stormwater Quality (MARC BMP Manual).  The City is currently reviewing the MARC BMP Manual and expects to propose modifications and supplements to the Manual in order to fit the City of Olathe.

Meetings

Olathe NPDES Dev Meeting 032708.pdf

Questions regarding Stormwater Ordinances can be directed to the Stormwater Engineer at (913) 971-8751 or email: kadams@olatheks.org.