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. Managing stormwater helps reduce flooding, protect water quality, and preserve our natural resources. As development increases, managing stormwater becomes even more important to ensure runoff does not negatively affect neighboring properties or waterways.

Penn Township manages stormwater to:

Reduce localized flooding.
Protect streams, creeks, and groundwater.
Improve water quality.
Meet Pennsylvania and federal environmental requirements.
Protect public and private property.

Planning a Project?

If you are planning a project that creates a new impervious surface 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. Some smaller projects may qualify for an exemption or simplified stormwater management plan, while larger projects may require a more detailed stormwater management 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, stormwater 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

If a spill or discharge presents an immediate danger, call 911 first. Otherwise, contact the Penn Township office at 717-665-4508 to report the issue.

What Can Property Owners Do?

Property owners play an important role in reducing stormwater runoff and protecting local waterways. Simple actions around your property 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 does not stop at property or municipal boundaries. Rain and melting snow that run off properties, roads, and other surfaces in Penn Township eventually reach local streams and waterways.

How stormwater is managed throughout the Township can affect water quality, flooding, stream health, and downstream communities.

Learn more about Penn Township’s Watersheds →