Watershed Protection Program Environmental Officers enforce local, state and federal laws, investigate environmental crimes and refer cases to the City of Los Angeles Attorney’s Office for evaluation and possible prosecution. Enforcement of Los Angeles’ Stormwater and Urban Runoff Pollution Control ordinance (L.A.M.C. 64.70) is an integral part of protecting LA’s watersheds.
As of March 10, 2003, all construction activities that disturb one acre or more of land, or disturb less than one acre but is part of larger common plan of development, must obtain permit coverage.
An amendment to the Clean Water Act required that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issue National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Municipal Stormwater permits for discharges (serving a population of 250,000 or more).
The City of LA passed a stormwater ordinance (LAMC 64.70) which prohibits the entry of illicit discharges into the municipal storm drain system and gives the City local legal authority to enforce the NPDES Permit and take corrective actions with serious offenders.
The Watershed Protection Environmental Officers respond 24/7 to all spills, illicit discharges and illegal dumping throughout the City of Los Angeles.
Enforcement of the City of LA's Stormwater and Urban Runoff Pollution Control ordinance (L.AMC 64.70) is an integral part of protecting LA’s watersheds.