SBMPs are stormwater drainage features and devices that help: 

Treat stormwater to remove pollutants such as trash and sediment before it enters our storm drain system and downstream waterways. 

Capture and slow the flow of stormwater entering the storm drain system to prevent flooding and downstream erosion. 

Recharge groundwater by diverting stormwater to unpaved areas where it can absorb into the ground, or infiltrate.  

For more information on SBMPs and general maintenance, please refer to the SBMP Maintenance Guide.  

Esta guía útil proporciona a los propietarios información para cumplir los requisitos de mantenimiento para desarrollo de la ciudad y de Structural Best Management (SBMP) por sus siglas en inglés.  

Why are SBMPs important?

When stormwater flows over the urban environment, it collects pollutants such as trash, oils, metals, bacteria and sediment. Urban runoff is not treated before entering the storm drain system and draining to our downstream waterways. SBMPs are installed upstream or inside storm drains to remove pollutants from stormwater.  

Construction of new buildings, parking lots and other paved surfaces increases impermeable area where rainfall can’t infiltrate into the ground. This causes a higher amount stormwater to flow into the City’s drainage system. SBMPs can mimic pre-development open areas and allow more stormwater to infiltrate. This can help prevent flooding and downstream erosion.  

SBMPs that allow stormwater to infiltrate into the soil, can also help recharge our groundwater! Groundwater is an important source of drinking water for Oceanside residents.  

Who is required to install SBMPs?

Per the San Diego Regional Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System Permit section 2.E.3, certain new development and re-development sites are classified as Priority Development Projects (PDPs) and are required to install SBMPs. To find out if your development project is subject to PDP requirements, visit the City of Oceanside's Engineering Stormwater Management Plan webpage.  

Looking for opportunities to install SBMPs on your property? 

Help protect our natural resources by installing your own environmentally friendly drainage features!  

Check out the City’s Water Efficiency page for rebate programs that may offer financial assistance!   

Here are a few simple options: 

Cisterns: barrels collect rainwater for re-use in your garden.   

Rain-friendly paving: porous pavement, permeable pavers, or even gravel allows more stormwater to infiltrate into the soil than traditional pavement.

Plant native vegetation: landscaping will help stormwater infiltrate into the soil, minimizing the amount of stormwater and pollutants entering the storm drain system and recharging groundwater. Planting native vegetation instead of turf can also help you be more water efficient!