Stormwater Pollution Prevention Tips

Residential

Pet Waste

Pet Waste (PDF) is full of bacteria that is harmful to people. If pet waste is washed into the storm drain, it goes directly into the creeks, lakes, and rivers, polluting our waters. Some ways how to combat this problem are:

  • Scoop it up and flush it down the toilet. Let the City's sewage treatment plant take care of it!
  • Seal the waste in a plastic bag and throw it away.
  • Bury small quantities in your yard where it can decompose slowly. Dig a hole and be sure to cover the waste with at least eight inches of soil. Make sure to keep it away from vegetable gardens!

Lawn Care Tips

  • Lawn Care Tips
  • Do not place yard waste into a storm drain.
  • Compost or recycle yard waste when possible.
  • Use pesticides and fertilizers in recommended amounts and only when needed.

Car Washing and Maintenance

  • Car Washes as Fundraisers
  • Use a commercial car wash bay to wash your car.
  • If you wash at home, park on the lawn so that wash waters soak into the ground instead of a storm drain.
  • Repair any leaks on your vehicle as soon as possible.
  • Use absorbent material to soak up leaks or spills instead of spraying chemicals with water, washing them directly into the creeks/rivers.
  • Recycle used oil and other automotive fluids at participating service stations.

Household Maintenance

  • Practice proper storage and disposal of household chemicals.
  • Do not clean paintbrushes outdoors or over a storm drain. Use a sink.
  • Never dispose or discharge any chemicals, paints, waster or wash waters into a storm drain.
  • Have septic tanks inspected regularly. Also, household chemicals that are discharged into the tank can damage the system.
  • Swimming pool owners: Drain it only when the chlorine content is non-detectable.

Commercial

  • View the Commercial Car Wash Guide.
  • View the Restaurant Guide.
  • Dirt, oil, and debris that collects in parking lots and paved areas can be washed into the storm sewer system and eventually enter and harm local bodies of water.
  • Sweep up litter and debris from sidewalks, driveways and parking lots, especially around storm drains.
  • Cover grease storage and dumpsters and keep them clean to avoid leaks.
  • Report any chemical spills to the local hazardous waste clean-up teams.