The Minnesota Stormwater Control Ordinance (MSC) is a set of regulations aimed at managing stormwater runoff within the state. Stormwater runoff occurs when precipitation, such as rain or melting snow, flows over impervious surfaces like roads, sidewalks, and rooftops, picking up pollutants and sediment along the way. The MSC helps prevent these contaminants from entering our water bodies and protects water quality. Under the MSC, municipalities and construction project owners have certain obligations to implement stormwater management practices that minimize the impact of runoff. These practices include the use of the best management practices (BMPs), which are techniques or technologies designed to control and treat stormwater runoff. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPA) administers and enforces the MSC to ensure compliance with the regulations. The regulation applies statewide and covers various land uses, including residential, commercial, industrial, and public properties. The MSC encourages municipalities to adopt comprehensive stormwater management plans and provides guidance on implementing effective stormwater management strategies. Within the MSC, there are different types of ordinances that address specific aspects of stormwater management. Some of these ordinances include: 1. Post-Construction Stormwater Management: This ordinance focuses on managing stormwater runoff from new development and redevelopment projects. It requires the implementation of BMPs that capture, treat, and infiltrate stormwater on-site to reduce the volume and pollutant load entering receiving waters. 2. Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination (IDLE): This ordinance aims to prevent the release of pollutants into storm sewer systems through illicit discharges. It requires municipalities to establish monitoring programs to detect and eliminate illicit discharges, which can include anything from improper disposal of chemicals to sewage leaks. 3. Construction Stormwater Permitting: This ordinance regulates construction sites by requiring operators to obtain stormwater permits before commencing any earth-disturbing activities. It includes provisions for erosion and sediment control measures to prevent the movement of sediment-laden runoff. 4. Industrial Stormwater Permitting: This ordinance targets industries and certain activities known to generate significant amounts of pollutants through stormwater runoff. Facilities falling under this category must obtain industrial stormwater permits and implement the best management practices minimizing pollution. 5. Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Permitting: The MS4 permitting ordinance applies to municipalities that operate separate storm sewers. It requires the development and implementation of stormwater management programs to address runoff from urbanized areas. Overall, the Minnesota Stormwater Control Ordinance plays a vital role in protecting Minnesota's water resources and ensuring sustainable stormwater management practices across various sectors. Compliance with these ordinances helps maintain water quality, prevent flooding, and preserve the ecological balance of our state's natural systems.