Stormwater Management

What is Stormwater and Why Does It Matter?

Stormwater is rain or melting snow that flows over roofs, driveways, roads, parking lots, lawns, and other surfaces. As it travels, stormwater can carry pollutants such as sediment, oil, fertilizers, pet waste, and litter into nearby streams and waterways.

Proper stormwater management helps reduce flooding, protect water quality, and minimize impacts on neighboring properties and natural resources.

Penn Township manages stormwater to:

  • Reduce localized flooding.
  • Protect streams, creeks, and groundwater.
  • Improve water quality.

Planning a Project?

If you are planning a project that creates new impervious surfaces or disturbs the ground, stormwater requirements may apply.

Projects that may require stormwater review include:

  • Building a new home
  • Constructing an addition
  • Installing a garage, shed, or pole building
  • Installing or expanding a driveway
  • Adding a patio or parking area
  • Commercial development
  • Subdivision or land development

Requirements vary depending on the type and size of the project. Smaller projects may qualify for an exemption or simplified stormwater management plan, while larger projects may require a more detailed plan.

Municipal Storm Sewer System (MS4)

Penn Township operates a Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4), which includes Township-owned storm drains, inlets, pipes, swales, outfalls, and other drainage facilities.

The Township maintains an MS4 permit through the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). The program helps reduce pollution entering local waterways through public education, system maintenance, construction oversight, and pollution prevention.

Learn more about Penn Township’s MS4 Program →

Report an Illicit Discharge

Only stormwater should enter the Township’s storm sewer system. Please report suspected pollution or unusual discharges, including:

  • Oil or fuel spills
  • Chemicals entering storm drains
  • Paint or concrete washout
  • Illegal dumping
  • Sediment leaving construction sites
  • Unusual flow from stormwater outfalls during dry weather
  • Other suspected water pollution

How to Report a Spill or Discharge

Immediate Danger: If a spill or discharge presents an immediate threat to life or safety, call 911.

Penn Township: To report suspected illicit discharges affecting the Township’s stormwater system, contact the Township office at 717-665-4508.

Environmental Emergencies: Hazardous spills, fish kills, or suspected pollution posing an immediate threat to public health or the environment may also be reported to the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) through its 24-hour emergency response hotline at 1-800-541-2050.

Nonemergency Environmental Complaints: Contact DEP at 1-866-255-5158 or visit the PA DEP Report Incidents and Complaints webpage.

What Can Property Owners Do?

Property owners play an important role in reducing stormwater runoff and protecting local waterways. Simple actions can make a difference:

  • Keep leaves and grass clippings out of storm drains.
  • Pick up and properly dispose of pet waste.
  • Use fertilizers and lawn chemicals responsibly.
  • Never dump liquids, chemicals, or waste into storm drains.
  • Maintain stormwater facilities located on your property.
  • Plant native trees, shrubs, and other vegetation.
  • Consider installing a rain garden or rain barrel.
  • Reduce unnecessary paved or impervious surfaces where practical.

Stormwater & Our Watersheds

Stormwater runoff from properties, roads, and other surfaces in Penn Township eventually reaches local streams and waterways. Managing runoff helps protect these watersheds and downstream communities.

Learn more about Penn Township’s Watersheds →

Helpful Resources

Penn Township:

Stormwater Education & Pollution Prevention:

The following Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) resources provide guidance to help residents, businesses, and property owners prevent pollution and protect local waterways.

External Resources: