Storm Water Information

Stormwater management is not something that most of us think about often. We are probably most aware of stormwater when intense rainfall causes easily visible problems like flooding, soil erosion, and heavily polluted waterways. But, stormwater also has less visible effects such as impacts on aquatic life in local streams or chronic surface water quality problems. In any event, the best time to prepare to manage stormwater is before the rain comes. We are focusing on a proactive approach to managing stormwater for Olive Branch. Better stormwater management can mean less frequent flood-related problems, better water quality in streams that feed our important drinking aquifers, improved quantity and diversity of aquatic life in our streams, enhanced property values, more sustainable urban developments, and a more scenic, natural environment for all of us to enjoy, to name just a few of the benefits.

We encourage you to browse the Stormwater website and learn more about what the City of Olive Branch is now doing to better manage stormwater to protect and enhance your quality of life. Whereas it has been raining since the beginning of time, as our local area has become more urbanized we must manage stormwater to minimize its potential impact on public safety, public health, and the natural environment. Federal and State laws and regulations under the Clean Water Act drive many of our programs. Others are proactive local initiatives endorsed by your elected leaders to help set apart Olive Branch as a high-quality community in which people want to live and work.

The City's Stormwater programs include drainage system operation and maintenance, public education and public involvement outreach, elimination of illicit discharges, construction site runoff controls, post-construction site runoff controls, pollution prevention, and capital improvement projects that are investments in the community infrastructure and environment.

You have a vital role as an individual, business, school, church, or other organization in helping us meet program goals. Indeed, it will ultimately take the efforts of everyone to make a lasting difference. Should you have any questions or complaints about Stormwater Phase II, feel free to contact us at 662-892-9352.

Stormwater Permit Application

As of January 2007, property owners disturbing land of an acre or greater will be required to apply for a Stormwater Permit from the City Engineering Department. Property owners, or their representatives, will be required to submit the following via mail or in-person to the City Engineering Department:

If you have questions concerning the submittal process or its status, please contact the Engineering Department at 662-892-9352. Once approved, the City Engineering Department will provide an on-site Certificate of Permit Coverage to the applicant. An Engineering Inspector will also be assigned to make daily inspections of the site.

Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality

"The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality is responsible for protecting the state's air, land, and water. Our mission is to safeguard the health, safety, and welfare of present and future generations of Mississippians by conserving and improving our environment and fostering wise economic growth through focused research and responsible regulation." 

EPA Stormwater Phase II Program