Abstract: The low impact development(LID) approach is an innovative site design strategy offering benefits in utilization of urban storm water and eco-environment protection.The paper introduces the concept,background,design goals and guidelines of LID,and reviews the current research on LID practices,design methods,monitoring and model simulation.Based on the analysis of benefits and limitations of LID,we identify the field monitoring practices,media testing,modeling and watershed retrofit studies as for future research directions.The introduction of LID storm water management practices could be an alternative approach to the utilization of storm water and eco-environment protection in China.