The City of Ridgefield is committed to managing stormwater in a way that balances environmental protection with the needs of a growing community. As a permittee under the Phase II Western Washington Municipal Stormwater Permit, the City works to safeguard water quality and maintain the health of local streams and wetlands. This includes efforts to reduce pollution from runoff, care for public infrastructure, and support responsible practices in construction, development, and business operations. Ridgefield’s stormwater program is shaped by community values and a commitment to long-term environmental stewardship, with a strong emphasis on public involvement and education.
For information about Stormwater utility fees or your utility statement, please visit the Utility Account page.
What is Stormwater? What is the MS4 Permit?
Stormwater is rain or snowmelt that flows over streets, roofs, and driveways—picking up oil, dirt, and other pollutants along the way. If not managed properly, this polluted runoff can end up in our local streams, wetlands, and rivers. To address this, the federal Clean Water Act requires many cities to follow a set of stormwater regulations known as the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES).
Ridgefield is covered under the Phase II Municipal Stormwater Permit, which applies to smaller urban communities across Washington. The permit is administered by the Washington State Department of Ecology and requires cities to reduce pollution from stormwater runoff through a comprehensive Stormwater Management Program.
Since becoming a permittee on August 1, 2024, Ridgefield has been actively developing a comprehensive stormwater program focused on public education, construction oversight, infrastructure maintenance, and pollution prevention. These efforts are intended to protect water quality, improve drainage, and ensure that Ridgefield’s streams, wetlands, and downstream ecosystems remain healthy as the community continues to grow.