Section 4 Planning Principles and Site Design

Section 4 Planning Principles and Site Design
Section 4:
4.0
Planning Principles and Site Design
Planning Principles
Since conventional development methods have been shown to increase runoff, contribute pollutant loads to receiving waters and reduce groundwater recharge, planning principles for storm water quality enhancement require different site and facility design considerations. Planning principles for storm water quality enhancement and protection of local water resources should consist of the following strategy: 1. Reducing or maintaining post-project runoff to pre-development conditions; 2. Controlling sources of pollutants; and 3. Treating polluted storm water runoff before discharging it to the storm drain system or to receiving waters (if still needed after implementing 1 and 2). Planning elements 1 and 2 are considered source controls because they emphasize reducing or eliminating pollutants in storm water runoff at their source by reducing runoff and potential pollutant exposure to rainfall and runoff. Planning element 3 considers the implementation of treatment controls that physically or biologically remove pollutants that have already impacted storm water runoff. Some land uses, such as residential developments, can effectively reduce runoff and control sources of pollutants through the implementation of source controls alone. Whereas industrial and commercial land uses may require a combination of source and treatment controls. Source controls act to prevent storm water pollution by ensuring that potential pollutant sources are maintained in a manner that reduces exposure. Storm water pollution prevention is less expensive than treatment control and thus should be applied whenever possible. Source controls should be applied in storage areas, fueling areas, maintenance and work areas, wash areas, waste handling areas, and should also include the labeling of storm drains. To reduce the volume of storm water run-on to these areas, berming, grading, and roofing techniques can be applied. Structural treatment controls are engineered facilities designed for the treatment of storm water runoff. They use infiltration, retention/detention and biofiltering techniques to remove pollutants. Vegetated swales and buffer strips, infiltration systems, bioretention systems, extended detention basins, ponds and constructed wetlands, media filtration systems, and oil/water separators are examples of structural treatment controls for storm water quality. They reduce the concentration of suspended solids, particulates, nutrients, metals, organics, and/or bacteria through filtration, absorption, and microbial decomposition of pollutants. Structural treatment controls can be considered public domain treatment controls or manufactured (proprietary) treatment controls. Public domain treatment controls are those that can be designed by an engineer and have been implemented and tested by numerous communities throughout the nation. Manufactured (proprietary) treatment controls are patented devices that have been engineered and constructed by private companies.
Truckee Meadows Regional Stormwater Quality Management Program Draft Structural Controls Design Manual, April 2007 Update Section 4 Planning Principles and Site Design
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4.1
Site Design
Since every potential development site possesses unique topographic, hydrologic, and vegetative features, some are more suitable than others for certain types of BMPs. However the integration and incorporation of appropriate landscape planning methodologies can be widely applied. Landscaping strategies that drain and filter storm water are the one of the most effective methods of minimizing surface and groundwater impacts from storm water runoff. Routing roof runoff through landscaped and treatment controls provides additional storm water quality benefits. Reducing the amount of dry-weather flows through the use of efficient irrigation systems also helps to reduce the transport of pollutants to receiving waters. Landscape planning, roof runoff controls and efficient irrigation techniques have the additional benefit of assisting with water conservation efforts while minimizing public health vector nuisances. Finally, the labeling of storm drain inlets with No Dumping Flows to Creek messages provides a highly visible public education message. It helps to educate the general public that the storm water runoff from streets and parking lots is conveyed through the storm drain system and does not receive treatment prior to discharge to local streams, rivers and lakes. Additional information about planning principles and site design techniques that replicate preexisting hydrologic site conditions can be obtained at the Low Impact Development (LID) Center http://www.lowimpactdevelopment.org/ In addition, in 2004 the Regional Water Planning Commission will be funding the development of a Watershed Management and Protection Plan for Tributaries to the Truckee River which will include a Best Management Practices Handbook of Low Impact Development designs applicable to the Truckee Meadows.
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ROOF RUNOFF CONTROLS

Description
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Runoff from the roofs of buildings and homes contributes to the volume of storm water runoff as well as acting as a source of pollutants. Controlling roof runoff by filtering it through vegetated swales, buffers or sand filters, storing it for irrigation, or allowing for infiltration reduces the peak flow rates and volume of storm water runoff and associated pollutants loads. Rainwater collected in rain barrels and cisterns can be used to water gardens and landscaping. Infiltration trenches and infiltration basins can be applied as methods to infiltrate storm water. These methods require gutter and downspout systems. Benefits of roof runoff controls include decreased use of potable water for irrigation practices, an increase in groundwater recharge, removal of pollutants from storm water runoff, and capture of the first flush pollutants. Onsite retention of a portion of the runoff will also assist by reducing the peak runoff and volume, as well as attenuating the thermal loading associated with the first flush of storm water runoff. Applications Appropriate for single-family homes and multi-family developments, commercial and industrial areas. Can be applied in areas of new development or in areas of redevelopment. Performance Data The expected range of pollutant removal percentages varies depending upon the combination of roof runoff control technologies used at a site. If vegetated swales or buffers are used, refer to the performance data presented on BMP fact sheets TC-10 and TC-11. If infiltration or media filtration systems are incorporated, refer to the performance data presented in Sections 6.2 and 6.6, respectively. Limitations An uncovered cistern can provide mosquito habitat if it contains standing water. Permeability may limit applicability of infiltration trenches and dry wells. Infiltration systems have limited applicability in areas with a high groundwater table and can be associated with an increased risk of groundwater quality degradation, particularly if improperly located in areas where spills are likely to occur.
Siting Criteria Infiltration systems should be installed a minimum of 10 feet from building foundations and must be installed in well drained soils. Pop-up emitters should be located a minimum of 10 feet from building foundations.
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Design and Construction Criteria
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Rain barrels and cisterns must be securely covered to prevent vector breeding. Rain barrels and cisterns must be child proof. Downspouts can be directed towards vegetated swales or buffers, infiltration trenches or basins. Splash blocks or gravel splash pads should be used to dissipate runoff energy from downspouts. Refer to BMP fact sheets TC-10 and TC-11 for information on the design and construction of vegetated swales and buffers. Refer to BMP fact sheets TC-20 and TC-21 for information on the design and construction of infiltration trenches and basins.
Inspection and Maintenance Requirements Inspect and maintain rain barrels and cisterns at least twice a year to ensure they are secure, functioning properly, and not breeding mosquitoes. Inspect and maintain vegetated swales and buffers as noted on BMP fact sheets TC-10 and TC-11. Inspect and maintain infiltration trenches and basins as noted on BMP fact sheets TC-20 and TC-21.
Additional Information Installation of plants around the edge of buildings will provide protection against soil erosion and will aid in storm water infiltration. Plants installed along a buildings drip line should be sturdy enough to handle heavy runoff sheet flows from rooftop runoff.
References California Stormwater Quality Association (CASQA), 2003. California Stormwater Best Management Practice Handbook, New Development and Redevelopment. City of Portland, 2000. Stormwater Management Manual, Updated August 2000. Portland, Oregon.
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Building Overflow options Reservoir Downspout Energy Dissipation (e.g. cobbles or splash block) Sand 30 inches min depth Perforated Pipe
Impermeable material (Concrete)
Waterproof building as needed Sub grade or existing soil Outlet pipe to storm drain system Foundation drains as required
Figure SC-10. Example of a Sand Filter for roof runoff control (modified from Portland, 2000).
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EFFICIENT IRRIGATION
Description
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Application of efficient irrigation techniques minimize the waste of water resources and reduce the volume of dry weather flows discharging to the storm drain system. Efficient irrigation techniques include rain and wind-triggered shutoff devices, automatic line break detection shutoff valves and soil moisture sensors. These devices automatically regulate the amount and frequency of irrigation based on climatic conditions and function to provide only the amount water required to sustain vegetation requirements. Applications Appropriate at any location that includes irrigated landscaping, including residential, commercial, and industrial sites that are either being developed or redeveloped. Limitations Installation of rain-triggered shutoff devices and automatic shutoff valves involve an initial additional expense; however these costs can be offset through water savings. May require additional inspection and maintenance to insure the irrigation system is functioning as efficiently as designed.
Siting Criteria Applicable at any location that includes an irrigation system for landscaping.
Design and Construction Criteria Install rain-triggered shutoff devices to prevent automatic irrigation during and following precipitation events. Install flow reducers or automatic shutoff valves which will shut off the flow in case of a broken line or sprinkler head. Customize the irrigation system and watering schedule to the actual water requirements of the vegetation used. Set irrigation timing and duration to minimize runoff and to comply with watering restrictions set by the Truckee Meadows Water Authority. Choose plant types that are appropriate for local climatic conditions. Choose plants that require little to no application of fertilizers or pesticides for healthy growth. Minimize runoff by covering areas of bare soil with mulch.
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EFFICIENT IRRIGATION
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Provide vegetative buffers along property lines and channel banks to filter out sediments.
Inspection and Maintenance Requirements Monitor and maintain the irrigation system to minimize runoff. Repair or replace broken pipes, nozzles, or other devices as soon as possible. Use alternative environmentally friendly fertilizers or pesticides.
References California Stormwater Quality Association (CASQA), 2003. Stormwater Best Management Practice Handbook, New Development and Redevelopment.
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STORM DRAIN LABELING

Description
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Illegal dumping of wastes into storm drain inlets is a significant problem in some areas. Many times this occurs because polluters are unaware that the storm drain system conveys storm water and wastes directly to rivers, streams and lakes without treatment. To educate the public and reduce the disposal of wastes such as used motor oil into the storm drain system; signs, stencils, markers or labels can be applied as a source control. Storm drain labels can be applied with paint and a stencil, secured with an adhesive, heat applied or stamped into concrete or cast into iron of manufactured drop inlets. Storm drain labels stating educational messages and prohibitions should be placed above or next to storm drain inlets. Applications Appropriate in all areas where illegal dumping is possible including residential, commercial, and industrial sites. Reflective materials may help to decrease the occurrence of illegal nighttime dumping in some areas. Limitations Storm drain stencils tend to weather and fade over time. If not properly attached with a secure adhesive, storm drain signs, markers or labels may become detached or be subject to vandalism.
Siting Criteria Storm drains inlets within new development projects should be clearly marked with storm drain signs, stencils, markers or labels. May be applied either on the top or face of curbs above or directly adjacent to storm drain inlets. The message should be visible from all angles.
Design and Construction Criteria Inquire with local agencies as to whether specific signage and language for storm drain labeling is required. Image and wording on the label must be clearly stated. Storm drain signs, stencils, markers or labels should be permanent. A durable, long lasting adhesive should be used to apply all storm drain signs, markers and labels.
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When stamped into concrete or cast into iron drop inlets, the label should be a minimum of 0.25 inch deep and have a minimum letter height of 1.5 inches. Figure SC-12 provides examples of some of the storm drain labels typically used by other communities. Bilingual storm drain labels should be used in neighborhoods where English is a second language.
Inspection and Maintenance Requirements Storm drain labels should remain readable at all times. Inspect storm drain labels every two years and replace or reapply as necessary.
References California Stormwater Quality Association (CASQA), 2003. California Stormwater Best Management Practice Handbook, New Development and Redevelopment. Sacramento Stormwater Management Program, 2000. Guidance Manual for On-Site Stormwater Quality Control Measures.
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Figure SC-12. Examples of storm drain labels.
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Section 4 Planning Principles and Site Design

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Section 4 Planning Principles and Site Design

Planning Principles and Site Design

ROOF RUNOFF CONTROLS

ROOF RUNOFF CONTROLS

ROOF RUNOFF CONTROLS

Impermeable material (Concrete)

STORM DRAIN LABELING

STORM DRAIN LABELING

STORM DRAIN LABELING

Figure SC-12. Examples of storm drain labels.

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