Best Management Practice

The City of Suffolk requires the submittal of a Water Quality Impact Assessment (WQIA) for any proposed development within the CBPA. A WQIA must demonstrate that land development will not increase the amount of nonpoint source pollution in stormwater runoff. Treating nonpoint source pollution can be managed by installing a Best Management Practice (BMP). A BMP functions by trapping stormwater and holding it for a designed time period or by allowing stormwater to filter into the soil. Examples include a retention or detention pond, infiltration structures such as dry-wells or trenches, and bioswales. In addition, the planting of low maintenance native landscaping in a mulched bed can be used to remove pollutants from runoff. Completing a WQIA will determine the best type of BMP required for your particular project.
Kensington Bioswale
All proposed development projects in the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Area Overlay District require the submittal of a site plan and WQIA to be reviewed by the Planning Division. If you have any questions or would like additional information about the requirements of the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Overlay District, you may contact the Planning and Community Development Department.