Stormwater Division

Aerial image of Manchester Stormwater Park
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​Stormwater Comprehensive Plan and Stormwater Management Action Plan (SMAP)

The County manages stormwater in unincorporated Kitsap to reduce flooding, protect water quality, and meet local, state, and federal requirements. We developed the Stormwater Comprehensive Plan​ (Comp Plan) and Stormwater Management Action Plan​ (SMAP) in 2020 to guide the operation, funding, and improvement of stormwater programs over time. The Comp Plan and SMAP cover the entire county, with East Dyes Basin as a priority watershed.

The County has begun updating both plans, and these updates will ensure compliance with the requirements of the 2024–2029 National Pollutant Discharge ​Elimination System (NPDES) Western Washington Phase II Municipal Stormwater Permit, County goals, best available science, and future needs of the community we serve. 

The SMAP​ is currently underway, and actions are being developed for the East Dyes Basin. An in-person public workshop for the SMAP will take place on Thursday, July 30, from 5-8 PM at Silverdale Waterfront Park. More information about the workshop will be coming shortly. 

Clean Water Kitsap​​​​​​​​​

The Clean Water Kitsap partnership protects people, property and the environment by managing flooding and preventing water pollution.  Our nationally recognized stormwater management program is funded by some of the lowest rates in Western Washington.

Here is what your stormwater fees pay for:

Drainage Improvements

We improve the storm drain system to reduce flooding, improve water quality, and increase fish passage.  Our inspection and maintenance program prevents pollutants and debris from entering waterways.


Water Quality Protection

Our partners know that there is more to surface waters than what is on the surface.  Watershed health monitoring, water cleanup and restoration projects, and public health water monitoring keep our waters safe for recreation and shellfishing.


Public Education & Involvement

Our many community programs help citizens understand their connection to water quality.  Programs like the Rain Gardens and More cost share, Backyard Habitat Restoration, and Agriculture Technical Assistance help property owners improve their homes while protecting our watersheds.


Water Resource Planning

Careful planning on a watershed scale helps to make sure that people, fish and wildlife continue to have abundant, clean water.  We collaborate with community partners to identify and apply strategies for protecting our water resources while making sure we have needed growth.


National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES)

Stormwater runoff in Kitsap County is regulated by the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Western Washington Phase II Municipal Stormwater Permit ​issued by the Washington State Department of Ecology, as well as by Kitsap County Stormwater Management Code (KCC 12.04 through 12.32)


NPDES Annual Reports

2025 NPDES Annual Report

2024 NPDES Annual Report

2023 NPDES Annual Report

2022 NPDES Annual Report

​*Please contact us if you would like the attachments ​referenced in the annual reports.

Stormwater Management Program (SWMP) for NPDES

Kitsap County is expected to develop a Stormwater Management Program (SWMP) that includes all the required activities. The County must implement those activities within the required timeframes of the Permit term. We submit annual reports to the Washington State Department of Ecology each year to document progress toward completing program implementation. 

Finding Our Focus: 5-Year Strategic Plan

​The Stormwater Strategic Plan is designed to serve as a roadmap for the Division's decision-makers to implement a proactive, compliant, and sustainable stormwater management philosophy. The goals and objectives in this plan guide our annual work plans and chart a course focused on maintaining compliance and implementing policies that not only protect our precious natural resources but also enhance Kitsap residents' quality of life. ​​​

Kitsap County welcomes comments on our Stormwater Management Program Plan, Comprehensive Plan, and Management Action Plan as part of the public input process. 













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