Puget Sound Decision Mandates Low-Impact Development

A recent study conducted by state agencies and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency found that stormwater runoff is the leading source of pollution in Puget Sound, carrying herbicides, arsenic, cadmium, phthalates, and oil. The board found that protecting waterways would require stormwater management techniques—such as the use of permeable pavement, narrower streets, vegetated roofs, rain gardens, and open space—that allow water to infiltrate the ground close to where it falls.

Many builders in western Washington support LID, but there has been resistance to requiring it across the board, and some builders complain of delays and added expense in obtaining local permits for LID tactics. LID proponents say that educating local authorities will reduce such problems and that LID can save 25% to 30% in costs for site development, fees, and maintenance.