Stormwater feedback sought
16 May 2019
Public input is being sought into proposed changes to Waipa District Council's rules around stormwater.
During heavy rain stormwater can cause flooding, soak into the soil, or run off and end up in nearby streams or rivers. Waipā's Stormwater Bylaw, which has been in place since 2008, is being updated to best manage stormwater across the district and minimise flooding, erosion and pollution.
Proposed changes to the bylaw reflect the latest stormwater management techniques and are consistent with existing Waikato Regional Council bylaws.
The proposed changes aim to:
- make public and private landowner responsibilities clearer as well as clarify liabilities
- protect and manage stormwater infrastructure and systems
- improve water quality in stormwater discharges
- broaden the existing permit system to encourage early discussions around works and stormwater management.
For the first time, pollution prevention plans will be introduced to manage substances potentially entering stormwater. The plans will require consideration of issues including boundaries, potential contamination sources and spill prevention and response techniques.
Submissions on the draft bylaw open today (May 16). Waipā's elected members will hear submissions in early August with a new bylaw likely to adopted at the end of that month.
To read the draft bylaw and make a submission go to waipadc.govt/haveyoursay. Submissions close on Friday, 21 June.