Prescott Valley council adopts updated 2025 drainage manual with green stormwater guidance
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Summary
The town adopted a revised Drainage Policies and Standards Manual that incorporates green stormwater infrastructure and low‑impact development practices, replacing the 2006 manual.
The Prescott Valley Town Council on April 10 authorized the mayor to sign a resolution adopting the 2025 Prescott Valley Uniform Drainage Policies and Standards Manual, a comprehensive update to the town's February 2006 manual. The resolution passed unanimously.
Why it matters: The update consolidates traditional drainage standards with green stormwater infrastructure and low‑impact development practices to improve stormwater management and long‑term water security for the town.
Staff and a consultant from West Consultants summarized the changes and emphasized new guidance on green stormwater infrastructure, soil‑based infiltration, permeable block pavements and active systems such as rainwater cisterns. The consultant described combining drainage and low‑impact development guidance into a single manual, saying the approach was intended to increase clarity for the development community and to make green infrastructure more accessible than in the previous document.
The manual updates reference several other manuals and regulatory sources used in the region, including the Flood Control District of Maricopa County's policies, ADOT hydrology guidance and Yavapai County standards, while adding local adaptations for Prescott Valley's conditions. The consultant highlighted examples such as chicanes that provide traffic calming and plantable areas for harvesting runoff, permeable block surfaces chosen for lower clogging risk, and deep infiltration systems intended to accelerate percolation to benefit the local aquifer.
Council members asked clarifying questions about specific practices; when asked to define a "chicane," the consultant described it as a roadway feature that slows traffic and provides space to harvest stormwater for landscaping. The resolution adopting the manual directs staff to implement the updated standards in plan review and development permits.
What's next: The updated manual will be used in evaluating future development and retrofit projects. Staff said the document aims to provide clearer guidance for applicants and promote practices the town described as advancing long‑term water security.
