Stormwater Management Program

Stormwater is rain or melting snow and ice that flows over rooftops, streets, driveways, and lawns. Unlike wastewater, stormwater does not go to a treatment plant. It flows directly into public waterways such as creeks, lakes, and streams. Because of this, it's essential to properly manage stormwater to maintain safe, effective infrastructure and protect water quality.

The Castle Pines Village Metropolitan District is required under the Clean Water Act to manage stormwater through a Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems (MS4) permit. As part of this program, the District carries out activities that reduce pollution and help ensure the long-term health of our environment.

How the District Manages Stormwater

To meet federal and state requirements, the District implements several Minimum Control Measures as part of its Stormwater Management Program:

Construction Site Runoff Control

We partner with Douglas County Public Works to require erosion control measures at construction sites. These efforts help prevent sediment and debris out of the stormwater system.

Post-Construction Stormwater Management

After development is completed, the District maintains stormwater features on public facilities, such as settling ponds, which help reduce sediment and nutrient runoff. These systems are inspected and maintained regularly. 

Illicit Discharge Detection & Elimination

Illicit discharges are unauthorized non-stormwater substances, such as like motor oil, paint, or lawn chemicals, entering the stormwater system. District staff are trained to identify and respond to these situations. Please let us know if you see something unusual entering a storm drain.

Pollution Prevention & Good Housekeeping

The District leads by example, following EPA-recommended practices to reduce stormwater pollution from our own activities. This includes safe handling of chemicals, equipment maintenance, and spill response procedures.

Public Education & Outreach

We work to raise awareness about how individual actions affect stormwater quality. The District partners with neighboring agencies to share educational messages. Learn more by visiting the Douglas County Stormwater Education website.

Public Participation & Involvement

We welcome your questions and suggestions. Public input plays an important role in helping us protect water quality.

Resident Responsibilities

While the District manages public stormwater systems, residents are responsible for drainage and stormwater management on their own property. The following responsibilities apply:

• Private Stormwater Facilities: Property owners are responsible for maintaining any non-public stormwater features located on their property.
• Erosion Control: The District is generally not responsible for addressing erosion on private property. Residents should monitor for erosion and consult professionals if corrective action is needed.
• Culvert Crossings: Maintenance and cleaning of driveway culverts and other private crossings are the responsibility of the property owner.
• Sump Pump Discharges: The District does not regulate or maintain sump pump discharge systems. Homeowners must ensure that these discharges do not negatively impact neighboring properties or public infrastructure.

A Shared Responsibility

Because stormwater drains directly into public waterways, it’s important for everyone to help protect water quality. Remember that stormwater is not treated and whatever enters a storm drain flows directly into streams and creeks.

Here are a few simple ways to help prevent stormwater pollution:

• Never dump anything into a storm drain. Only rain belongs there.
• Avoid blowing grass clippings or leaves into the street, where they can clog drains and carry nutrients into waterways.
• Sweep up yard debris and soil from driveways and sidewalks instead of hosing it into the gutter.
• Use fertilizers and lawn care products sparingly and responsibly, following manufacturer instructions.
• Wash vehicles at a commercial car wash, where water is properly treated, instead of in your driveway.

These small steps make a big difference in protecting the water resources we all depend on.