The Contra Costa County Regional Alternative Compliance (RAC) System is an innovative stormwater management framework that enables municipalities and developers to meet post-construction stormwater treatment requirements. By using a market-based model, the system allows the purchase of compliance credits, “Equivalent Acres Greened”, from off-site Green Stormwater Infrastructure (GSI) projects. This approach moves beyond parcel-by-parcel compliance, pooling funding across jurisdictions to finance large-scale GSI retrofits in urban and industrial areas with high pollutant loads, often in disadvantaged communities.

The RAC System includes a recurring funding stream from compliance units and O&M fees, managed through a proposed Community Facilities District for long-term sustainability. The system also employs advanced hydrologic modeling, performance-based contracting, and Public-Private Partnerships to optimize project delivery. As a multi-agency collaboration led by the Contra Costa Clean Water Program (CCCWP), the system involves 21 local jurisdictions, regional agencies, and extensive stakeholder engagement, including regulatory bodies and community organizations. This collaborative approach makes the RAC System a scalable, innovative solution to stormwater management, delivering lasting environmental and community benefits.

SFEI was recently awarded the 2025 Outstanding Stormwater Funding Initiative from CASQA as a team member of the RAC! 

This honor reflects the depth of collaboration necessary to achieve substantial and meaningful environmental outcomes. SFEI is grateful to CASQA for the recognition and the RAC Team for all of the hard work.

The following overview highlights the system and describes its functions.