In an effort to clarify and streamline local permitting for streamside activities, representatives from the water district, 15 cities, the county, business, agriculture, streamside property owner and environmental interests came together in 2002 to set up the Water Resources Protection Collaborative. Among its many accomplishments was the adoption of the "Guidelines and Standards for Land Use Near Streams: A Manual of Tools, Standards, and Procedures to Protect Streams and Streamside Resource in Santa Clara County." See links below:
The Guidelines and Standards developed by the Water Resources Protection Collaborative serve as a basis for the District and municipal organizaations to implement as appropriate. Municipal organizations have land use authority and police powers and are well suited to impose and enforce development standards. Municipal organizations can use these strengths to foster resource protection in private development and its public works. Each municipal organization will apply these standards as needed for their jurisdiction.
The District's strength is in its technical knowledge and can provide technical assistance through early consultation and project review. This service can be enhanced through individualized agreements between a municipal organization and the District.