The Stormwater Section works to:

• Protect local water quality
• Control flooding
• Reduce impacts to private properties from new developments

This is done by informing developers about federal, state, and local regulations related to stormwater and floodplain management. The section also offers assistance during the plan approval process.

Responsibilities

The Stormwater Section handles:

• Stormwater plan reviews
• FEMA floodplain development reviews
• Site inspections for subdivisions in unincorporated Union County and the Town of Hemby Bridge
• Policy recommendations and technical assistance for stormwater and floodplain management
• Coordination with the Planning Division and other Union County departments
• Public education on stormwater issues
• Response to drainage complaints

Why Is Stormwater Runoff a Problem?

Stormwater can carry debris, chemicals, dirt, and pollutants into storm sewer systems or directly into natural water bodies such as lakes, streams, rivers, wetlands, or coastal waters.

Once it enters the system, stormwater is not treated. It flows directly into the water sources we use for:

• Swimming
• Fishing
• Drinking water

Effects of Stormwater Pollution

Polluted stormwater runoff can harm plants, animals, and people in many ways:

• Sediment clouds water, preventing plant growth and damaging aquatic habitats.
• Excess nutrients lead to algae blooms. As algae decompose, they deplete oxygen in the water, killing fish and aquatic life.
• Bacteria and pathogens can contaminate swimming areas, leading to health risks and beach closures.
• Debris (plastic bags, bottles, cigarette butts) can choke or injure animals such as ducks, turtles, and fish.
• Hazardous household waste (paint, oil, pesticides) can poison aquatic life. People and animals may get sick from eating contaminated fish or drinking polluted water.
• Drinking water sources may become contaminated, increasing treatment costs and health risks.

Is Your Property in a Flood-Prone Area?

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) regularly updates maps that show flood-prone areas.

To view the latest Union County and FEMA flood maps:

1. Visit the Union County Planning Office, or
2. Go to the County’s GoMaps webpage
• Open the Map Layers dialog box
• Select the 2014 FEMA Zones layer under Natural Map Layers
• Zoom in on your area of interest

Floodplain Regulations

Properties in designated flood-prone areas must follow specific rules. These are detailed in Article 65 of the Union County Development Ordinance.

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