The Water Resource Protection Ordinance 06-1 ordinance protects water resources managed by the Santa Clara Valley Water District by regulating modifications, entry, use or access to water district facilities and/or water district easements. The ordinance includes:
Clarity of Governance: The approach makes a clear distinction regarding governance. Municipal organizations will continue to exercise their land use authority. The District will issue permits solely where it has a facility or property interest.
Clarity of Standards: The model Guidelines and Standards developed by the Water Resources Protection Collaborative will serve as a basis for the district and municipal organizations to implement as appropriate. The application of the water district’s standards will be solely on its facilities and properties. Each municipal organization will develop and apply these standards as needed for their jurisdiction.
Streamlined processing: Property owners and land use applicants will only need to work with one agency unless an activity is proposed on a water district facility or property. Then, a district encroachment permit will be needed.
Focus on Strengths: Municipal organizations have land use authority and police powers and are well suited to impose and enforce development standards. Municipal organizations can uses these strengths to foster resource protection in private development and its public works. The district’s strength is its technical knowledge and can provide technical assistance through early consultation, in-depth project referrals. Also, it could enhance this service through individualized agreements between a municipal organization and the District. The District can also focus its efforts on protection and enhancement of its assets.
Water Resources Protection Manual
For your convenience, this 117-page document has been broken down into five more easily downloadable sections:
For more information, please contact Sue Tippets at (408) 265-2607, ext. 2253.