| Stormwater Management Division
 What is stormwater?
Stormwater is rainfall that does not soak into the ground, but instead flows over the land’s hard surface into the nearest water body through storm drain channels.
Why is stormwater a problem?
Stormwater is a problem because it carries a lot of pollution along with it wherever it flows. In urban areas such as the District, much of the land is covered by impervious surfaces such as streets, buildings, parking lots and driveways. During rain storms, these impervious surfaces prevent rainfall from soaking into the soil. Instead, this stormwater drains into manmade drainage systems consisting of inlets and underground pipes commonly referred to as “storm sewers.” These storm sewers are not to be confused with sanitary sewers that transport human and industrial wastewaters to a treatment plant before discharging to surface waters. Stormwater entering storm sewers does not receive any treatment before it enters the Potomac and Anacostia Rivers and Rock Creek. Learn more about why stormwater is a problem.
What do we do about stormwater?
The District Department of the Environment seeks to reduce stormwater runoff pollution by going beyond the activities required in the District’s National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permit. The Stormwater Management Division of the Natural Resources Division within DDOE is responsible for managing the District NPDES Permit*. DDOE assumed responsibility for the District’s stormwater administration in February 2007.
RiverSmart Homes
The RiverSmart Homes program offers incentives to homeowners interested in reducing stormwater pollution from their properties.
More information:
For more information on the DDOE Stormwater Management Division, call (202) 535-1722.
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