§ 4-292. Introduction/purpose.

This section represents the application of accepted principles of stormwater drainage engineering and is a working supplement to basic information obtainable from standard drainage handbooks and other publications on drainage. The policy statements of this section provide the underlying principles by which all drainage facilities shall be designed. The application of the policy is facilitated by the technical criteria contained in the remainder of the manual.

Experience has shown that most of the more serious flooding, erosion, and water quality problems are "created." Usually this occurs from conveying more stormwater to a given area than can be carried away effectively. Ever increasing drainage problems emerge unless well-conceived, cooperative stormwater drainage and flood control programs are undertaken. The stormwater management goals of the City of Tuscumbia, AL, are to prevent flooding, and erosion that may result from stormwater runoff from development and redevelopment projects. The city's drainage manual (the manual) provides guidance and direction for meeting these goals.

The purpose of the manual is to protect existing natural stormwater resources, convey and control stormwater in a safe and responsible manner, and meet water quality goals. The manual is intended to provide information to the general public on the city's stormwater policies and design practices, as well as assist developers, engineers, and city staff in the preparation, review and approval of the stormwater report and construction drawings that must accompany private and public development proposals. This document is organized to facilitate specific design and submittal activities related to stormwater management infrastructure. Stormwater management, particularly in the area of stormwater quality management, is an evolving science. As such, the manual will be updated as necessary to reflect accepted standard practice in stormwater management.

(Ord. No. 15-0817A, 8-17-2015)