Low Impact Development (LID)

Low Impact Development (LID) is a stormwater management and design strategy that is integrated into the design of the development project. Use of LID in project design is a requirement of the current MS4 Permit. When designing for low impact development, consider the following:

Principles of Low Impact Development (LID)

Conserve natural resources that provide valuable natural functions associated with controlling and filtering Stormwater

Minimize and disconnect impervious surfaces

Direct runoff to natural and landscaped areas conducive to infiltration

Use distributed small-scale controls or integrated Best Management Practices (BMPs) to mimic the site's pre-project hydrology, preventing additional runoff

Stormwater education leads to pollution prevention

Strategies of Low Impact Development (LID)

Required as part of a project's WQMP Site Design BMPs. Ten practices are:

  • Bioretention and Rain Gardens
  • Rooftop Gardens
  • Sidewalk Storage
  • Vegetated Swales, Buffers and Strips; Tree Preservation
  • Roof Leader Disconnection
  • Rain Barrels and Cisterns
  • Permeable Pavers
  • Soil Amendments
  • Impervious Surface Reduction and Disconnection
  • Pollution Prevention and good Housekeeping

Resources for Low Impact Development (LID)

LID measures have been recognized by U.S. EPA as a preferred method for stormwater treatment (compared to many conventional treatment devices).

Low Impact Development - Riverside County Flood Control and Water Conservation District

BMP Handbook for New Development and Redevelopment, California Stormwater Quality Association (CASQA)

California EPA, State Water Resources Control Board