Wheat Ridge Programs

State Permit

Many large metropolitan areas throughout the United States are required to operate their storm sewer systems under a State permit. Under the Federal Clean Water Act, the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit program controls water pollution by regulating point sources that discharge pollutants into waters of the United States.

A State permit requires these cities to control the amount and the quality of the untreated waste being dumped into surface waterways through storm sewers. In 1999, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enacted the Phase II Stormwater Rule that requires small-sized cities, like the City of Wheat Ridge, to also obtain a permit and to control the untreated stormwater that enters into the creeks and lakes through storm sewers.

Phase II

• Is federally-mandated and unfunded.
• Requires the City of Wheat Ridge to obtain permit coverage and meet all requirements for stormwater discharges to State receiving waters.
• Is administered nationwide by the EPA and by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) within Colorado.
• Has financial penalties for non-compliance - up to $25,000 per day if it is determined there is criminal intent.

Stormwater Management Plan

In March 2003, the City of Wheat Ridge was required to develop its first Stormwater Management Plan in the form of a Phase II Permit Application, and submit it to the State of Colorado. On August 10, 2004, Wheat Ridge's Phase II Permit Application was approved.