The City regulates STMs under the approved grading permit issued for the property. Property owners must maintain STMs throughout the life of the project. If you want to modify an STM, you must apply for an adjustment to the grading permit with the City’s Planning Department. You must get approval for the permit adjustment before making any modifications.

Please call the City of San José Environmental Services Department at 408-945-3000 for more information specific to your HOA's regulated device.

Please call the City of San José Environmental Services Department at 408-945-3000 to find out if your property has an STM or for detailed information about your property.

You may also visit the Santa Clara Valley Urban Runoff Pollution Prevention Program (SCVURPPP) STM data portal to view where STMs may be located within the Santa Clara Valley Stormwater Permit region. Please note that the data on the portal is in draft status and continues to be reviewed and vetted. 

Please contact City of San José Environmental Services Department at 408-945-3000 if you have concerns or need to discuss your situation.

You must operate and maintain STMs in compliance with San José Municipal Code 20.95.120 (C). The Municipal Regional Stormwater Permit requires the City to conduct onsite inspections. These onsite visual inspections ensure STMs are functioning as intended and meet municipal code requirements.

No, inspections are currently conducted at no cost to property owners.

An inspector will meet with you or your representative at your property to inspect your STM(s). They will report findings, corrective actions, recommendations, and resources on how to stay compliant in the future.

The inspection’s duration will vary depending on the number of STMs, property size, and any specific maintenance concerns.

Preferably, the property’s representative is present during the inspection. This helps the inspector locate the STM(s), address any concerns, and share results.

Inspection frequency can vary depending on factors like site conditions and applicable regulations. Property owners and operators should maintain their STMs year-round to ensure compliance. 

You are receiving an inspection because your property includes a regulated STM. Your neighbor’s property and inspection date may differ from yours.

State regulations require inspections to ensure that STMs are functioning and maintained. Complying with requirements protects our waterways and the environment. 

Maintenance frequency can vary based on the type and condition of the device. Maintain your STM on a regular basis according to maintenance guidelines specified in the City of San José Maintenance Field Guide. 

Property owners are responsible for all irrigation, watering, and STM maintenance activities.

Avoid using pesticides and refrain from over-pruning. Ensure that plants are healthy and suited for the local climate.

The City of San José does not maintain a list of preferred contractors. However, you can hire licensed landscaping professionals with expertise in STMs. For vault-based systems, look for certified stormwater professionals. Verify they are familiar with STMs and local regulatory requirements. 

The City of San José will never send a solicitation for a third-party vendor related to preferred contractors or service providers. 

Follow local water conservation guidelines during drought conditions and restrictions. Certain STMs need watering as part of their maintenance. They may be exempt from water restrictions due to their function as environmental mitigation measures. Check with your water provider. 

It is required to use Composted Arbor Mulch to cover bare soil within STMs. This helps preserve moisture, suppress weeds, and improve the planting areas' health.

Refer to the Plant List and Planting Guidance for Landscape Based Stormwater Measures guide for plant requirements. The guide provides details on appropriate plant species, maintenance needs, and design standards.

Properly maintained STMs should not attract mosquitoes. Stagnant water can create mosquito breeding grounds. Visit Santa Clara County’s Vector Control website for more information on mosquito control and prevention.

The use of pesticides and fertilizers are not allowed within STMs. This restriction prevents chemical runoff and protects local waterways from harmful pollutants. 

If your site uses recycled water for irrigation or other purposes, a trained site supervisor must operate the system. This is to follow recycled water use regulations. Please refer to the Recycled Water Irrigation Use Training for Site Supervisors page for more information.