Norfolk is responsible for ensuring the storm sewer network is working properly. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning, inspection, and repair of storm network infrastructure, helps prevent blockages, ensure smooth water flow, and extend the system’s lifespan.
Investing in stormwater
Norfolk County is committed to investing in sustainable stormwater management through initiatives like:
- Implementing a new Stormwater Team in 2024 to facilitate the new CLI-ECA for Norfolk County.
- Replacing aging infrastructure through capital projects.
- Expanding our stormwater facilities network and maintaining our existing facilities.
- Implementing erosion control measures along waterways.
- Enhancing flood monitoring and emergency preparedness.
Norfolk County will review a stormwater utility rate in 2024. In many other municipalities, stormwater projects are funded through a dedicated user-fee program, ensuring a resilient and efficient system that safeguards our communities and natural resources.
Consolidated Linear Infrastructure Environmental Compliance Approval (CLI ECA)
The Consolidated Linear Infrastructure Environmental Compliance Approval (CLI ECA) program allows Municipalities to approve low-risk infrastructure on behalf of the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP). CLI ECA will streamline the ECA approval process and give Norfolk County the authority to approve stormwater infrastructure.
Following the Environmental Protection Act, Norfolk County’s CLI ECA allows the County to approve additions, modifications, replacements, and extensions to the County’s Stormwater Management System. This includes all connected stormwater management works within land owned and/or operated by Norfolk County, including storm sewers, stormwater management ponds, water quality treatment devices, and low-impact development (LID) infrastructure.
A CLI ECA SWM Permit from the County is required if a project proposes an alteration to the system, including:
- An extension of the system
- A replacement or retirement of part of the system or
- A modification of, addition to, or enlargement of the system
A CLI ECA SWM Permit is NOT required by the County for:
- Exceptions identified in the County’s CLI ECA Schedule D, Sections 3.1, 4.3, 5.3 & 6.3
- Private Stormwater Infrastructure
- LID on Residential Properties
Low-impact development (LID)
Low-impact development (LID) uses techniques that mimic the natural environment and allow rainwater to be absorbed where it falls. These practices help filter, infiltrate, and store stormwater on-site, decreasing runoff volume and pollutant loads.
Norfolk County is looking to integrate innovative LID techniques that mimic natural water movement, such as:
- Bioretention areas and rain gardens
- Permeable pavements
- Green roofs and rainwater harvesting systems
- Infiltrating Storm Sewers
Design guidelines
Stormwater Management Design Guidelines (Guidelines) have been created for developers, engineers, and architects preparing development plans in Norfolk County. The goal of the Guidelines is to provide the technical tools and guidelines necessary to comply with our stormwater management requirements and infrastructure design standards.
View our current Stormwater Management Design Guidelines (PDF).
