13.16.160 Inspections.
A. Purpose. To be in accordance with its MS4 permit, the city is required to conduct inspections to monitor all stormwater controls and BMPs, as well as all discharges to the city’s stormwater system and to all natural water bodies including lakes, streams, rivers, and canals.
B. Scope. Inspections relating to the MS4 permit include but are not limited to investigating illicit discharges; observing construction activities, post-construction operation, and maintenance of stormwater controls; reviewing maintenance and repair records; sampling discharges, surface water, groundwater, and material or water in drainage control facilities; and evaluating the condition of drainage control facilities and other BMPs either publicly or privately owned.
C. Access.
1. Visual Inspections. Visual inspections of discharges to natural water bodies, spills, or stormwater-related controls on private property within the city are permitted by the city engineer or designee at any time.
2. Other Inspections. When a visual inspection is not adequate to determine the extent of discharges to natural water bodies, spills, or to determine the status of stormwater-related controls on private property, the city will give twenty-four hours’ notice of the inspection to take place and the extent of the inspection. Any equipment or personnel necessary will be allowed to access and work on the property as necessary to perform the inspection.
3. Emergency Inspection. During times of emergency, including discharges to natural water bodies, spills or potential damage to life or property, the city may access the property as necessary and with the equipment required to perform the inspection. Reasonable attempts to contact the property owner prior to the inspection will be made prior to accessing the private property.
D. Follow-Up Inspections. If problems are identified which require corrective action, then a follow-up inspection will be scheduled. (Ord. 2021-20 § 1 (Att. A))