How does better site design compare with low impact development?
Better site design is implemented in two ways: in development projects and in municipal codes. 1) Development Projects: Developers, builders, engineers and landscape architects can incorporate better site design practices in the design and construction of development projects. Some of these practices are required, some are voluntary. • Required practices: The New York SPDES General Permit for Stormwater Discharges from Construction Activities (GP-02-01) requires that all development projects causing 1 acre of soil disturbance or more, or those in certain watersheds, must incorporate practices that reduce the impacts of stormwater from the site. New York Standards and Specifications for Erosion and Sediment Control and the New York State Stormwater Management Design Manual provide the standards for stormwater management practices in construction projects. To offer flexibility, the Stormwater Design Manual has details for 25 practices in six different categories, including bioretention,
