Section 12.16.010 Findings of fact.

It is hereby determined that land development projects and associated increases in impervious cover alter the hydrologic response of local watersheds and increase storm water runoff rates and volumes, flooding, stream channel erosion, and sediment transport and deposition. Storm water runoff contributes to increased quantities of water-borne pollutants, and; storm water runoff, soil erosion and nonpoint source pollution can be controlled and minimized through the regulation of storm water runoff from development sites.

Therefore, the City of Sioux City, Iowa establishes this set of water quality and quantity ordinances applicable to all surface waters to provide reasonable guidance for the regulation of storm water runoff for the purpose of protecting the general public and property and local water resources from degradation. It is determined that the regulation of storm water runoff discharges from land development projects and other construction activities in order to control and minimize increases in storm water runoff rates and volumes, soil erosion, stream channel erosion, and nonpoint source pollution associated with storm water runoff is in the public interest and will prevent threats to public health and safety. (Ord. 2002-1015)