Development has impacts on the hydrologic cycle. Runoff volume is increased due to placement of impervious areas such as pavement and from compaction of soil from heavy equipment. This can lead to increased flooding in low-lying areas. Sites are usually designed so that the increased runoff volume is transported away as quickly as possible. The increased volume and efficient transport of runoff typically lead to higher flow rates. Along streams this can lead to increased flooding. Finally all developed lands can produce more runoff-borne pollutions than lands in their natural condition.

Bioretention, sometimes called rain gardens when used in residential areas, and swales, sometimes enhanced as bioswales, are some common LID stormwater management practices, but there are many other stormwater practices that can be considered to be LID when properly implemented, such as green roofs or pervious pavements. Even a drainage retention area (DRA) can be part of an LID stormwater management system. A properly designed LID stormwater management system provides a "treatment train" of best management practices where runoff is reduced and treated through a series of best management practices.