Stormwater Management

The Kansas City region has completed a comprehensive update to stormwater design and management standards, incorporating modern practices, advanced technology, and the latest data and modeling used by stormwater professionals nationwide. These standards, originally established in 2003 and last revised in 2012, now reflect current best practices for resilient and sustainable stormwater management.

This initiative was guided by the APWA-Kansas City Executive Committee and supported by 23 participating local governments. The update aligns with recommendations from the APWA Sustainable Stormwater Task Force, which emphasizes a watershed-based approach that manages risk, enhances community value, and protects natural ecosystems.

Key improvements include:

• Integration of water quantity and quality design standards
• Adaptable specifications for rural, suburban, and urban development
• Enhanced resiliency and sustainability through holistic system evaluations
• Updated rainfall standards and hydrology methods
• Increased hydrology and hydraulic evaluation requirements
• Expanded natural system design and maintenance criteria
• Improved stormwater detention evaluations for greater value

The final version of the 2025 manual update and its appendices were approved on Dec. 10, 2025. 

The MARC manual currently adopted by regional governments provides guidance for land development practices within the region. It provides developers, engineers and planners with flexible tools to reduce the volume of stormwater discharge while conserving water quality at the same time. This manual is being updated and combined along with the APWA 5600 Storm Drainage Systems & Facilities design criteria.

Local governments in the Kansas City metro area adopt American Public Works Association (APWA) engineering design standards to govern how stormwater is managed for the region. These standards adapt regional approaches to meet local needs and opportunities. These standards are located in APWA Section 5600 and the MARC/APWA Manual of Best Management Practices to Protect Water Quality (BMP Manual).

Please contact MARC with any questions related to this project.