Code Enforcement
MS4 Stormwater Management Program
Brightwaters is obliged to conform to the MS4 (Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System) program run by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and administered by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC). The criteria for designation as an MS4 is population density and the "permit" area covers most of Long Island.
Over a 5-year period, following notification of coverage, the Village is required to implement a stormwater management program (SWMP) to satisfy the appropriate water quality requirements of the Environmental Conservation Law and Clean Water Act.
Development within the Village increases the amount of impervious surfaces which leads to an increase in runoff and runoff borne pollutants. These pollutants are deposited from the atmosphere, leak from vehicles or are windblown from adjacent areas. During storm events these pollutants quickly wash off and are rapidly delivered to downstream waters. Pollutants of concern include, but are not limited to suspended solids, trace heavy metals, hydrocarbons (oil and grease), nutrients (phosphorous and nitrogen), pesticides and chlorides (road salt).
The MS4 Permit requires the Village to develop, implement and enforce a stormwater management program to reduce the discharge of pollutants from the permit area to the maximum extent practicable to protect water quality.
The Village is required to provide an Annual Report to NYSDEC summarizing progress made on reaching the goals of the permit in six minimum measure areas. The six areas are:
• Public Education and Outreach
• Public Involvement and Participation
• Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination
• Construction Site Stormwater Runoff Control
• Post - Construction Stormwater Management
• Pollution Prevention / Good Housekeeping for Municipal Operations
The Village has also implemented Local Laws to comply with the NYSDEC requirements which can be found in the Village Code.
The EPA and NYS DEC offer a wealth of information for homeowners and contractors concerning compliance with the MS4 program, and the best practices for management of storm water. The 'Stormwater Outreach and Reference Documents' webpage is a wonderful starting point for anyone in government and construction, as well as for citizens who would like to learn more about the methods and goals of the program. We highly recommend going to the following link and looking through the various pamphlets. Some of this material is also available at Village Hall.
http://cfpub.epa.gov/npdes/stormwatermonth.cfm