💧 Stormwater Runoff: A Legal Headache for Local Authorities?

💡 CEPRI, in partnership with FNCCR and the Fidal law firm, has published a landmark legal briefing aimed at local authorities, to clarify the complex issues surrounding the management of stormwater runoff.

Often straddling multiple areas of jurisdiction, runoff presents not only technical challenges, but also legal and financial ones, requiring precise and tailored responses.

A publication to address key questions raised by local stakeholders:

👉 Is there such a thing as a formal “runoff management responsibility”?
👉 What are the legal obligations of local authorities in this field?
👉 How can preventive measures be funded without a dedicated revenue stream?

Objectives of the note:

✔ Define and clarify the scope of relevant competences: GEMAPI, GEPU, urban planning, roads, etc.
✔ Identify actionable legal and operational tools: intermunicipal cooperation, mayoral police powers, declaration of public utility (DIG) procedures…
✔ Provide an overview of funding sources: Green Fund, Barnier Fund, urban planning contributions, and more.


📘 A practical tool to support local action

This legal briefing is intended for elected officials, technical staff, legal advisors, and all those involved in flood risk management and climate-resilient urban planning. It was designed as a decision-making tool—both rigorous and accessible—to help guide local governments facing increasingly pressing challenges.

📄 The document is available for download:
CEPRI – Stormwater Management Briefing

CEPRI extends its sincere thanks to all contributors and reviewers for their expertise and commitment:

  • Mr. Pierre Kolditz, Water Cycle Legal Advisor, FNCCR
  • Ms. Sandrine Potier Moreau, Technical Advisor, FNCCR
  • Ms. Johanna Leplanois, Partner, Fidal Law Firm
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