What type of authority enforces local ordinances regarding stormwater management?

Localities are the entities that enforce ordinances related to stormwater management. In Virginia, as in many other states, stormwater management regulations are primarily established and implemented at the local level. This allows municipalities and counties to tailor their stormwater management practices to the specific environmental and infrastructural needs of their community.

Local governments have the authority to set regulations that are consistent with state guidelines and federal laws while addressing local concerns such as flooding, water quality, and land use. This ensures that the enforcement is responsive to local conditions, such as varying geography, infrastructure, and community priorities. Local authorities typically have the personnel and resources needed to oversee compliance and inspections, making them the frontline enforcers of stormwater management ordinances. This local control is essential for effective management and mitigation of stormwater issues that directly affect residents and local ecosystems.