Water Quality Management Plan (WQMP)

There are water quality requirements for land development. The Water Quality Management Plan ensures that these are met often through low impact design.


Its purpose is to achieve a level of storm water runoff pollution prevention and abatement that would ensure the health of our local waterways and beaches.


If you are developing land, please go to our online application portal for submitting WQWP's.


Read below for more information.




Guidance Documents

The guidance documents for the preparation of the WQMP are:



They provide guidance for “priority” new development and significant redevelopment projects to comply with the state and federal requirements (National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Phase I Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permits)


These documents can also be obtained here from the County of Orange website under the northern region section.



What kind of projects are there?

There are three kinds of projects:


  1. Priority
  2. Non-Priority
  3. De-minimus (not required)

Projects that include adding or replacing impervious areas, or specific items such as parking lots, auto repair shops, restaurants, gas stations, hillside developments, etc...may be classified as a priority project.



Projects which do not fall under the category of the Priority Projects but require discretionary approval by the Cypress Planning Division shall be required to complete a Non-Priority Water Quality Management Plan.



How do I know if I need a WQMP?

You can go to our online application here.


It will walk you through a simple checklist if your project meets one of the thresholds.


We will then review and let you know the type of WQMP (Priority, Non-Priority)


When do I have to submit my WQMP?

Certain development projects need to prepare Preliminary Water Quality Management Plan prior to any planning entitlement or building permit if they meet the requirements of a Priority Project under our stormwater permit with the state.


A final will need to be completed before starting the project. There are specific templates:


Then go here to submit your preliminary or final WQMP.





How can I get more help?

If you need more information, please contact Public Works at:


  • waterquality@cypressca.gov
  • (714) 229-6752

Also, visit https://www.ocstormwatertools.org/ for more information and sample best management practices and devices.


Learn more about stormwater. See below and watch this this third-party video that discusses the basics of stormwater.