Reduce runoff pollution

Stormwater is the flow of water generated from rainfall events. Rainwater is either absorbed into the ground, evaporates or is stormwater runoff, which is a leading cause of pollution to surface waters.

When rainfall flows over land surfaces and impervious areas such as driveways, sidewalks and streets, the stormwater picks up dirt, litter, and an assortment of other pollutants. The water then is diverted into storm drains to prevent road and property flooding, where it discharges untreated into retention basins, parks, streams, rivers and lakes.

Where there are more impervious surfaces, there will be more stormwater runoff. Pollution prevention is the key to decreasing stormwater source pollution, and you can begin with simple but important steps:

Construction sites

Before beginning an outdoor project, locate the nearest storm drains and protect them from debris and other materials. Sweep up and properly dispose of construction debris, such as concrete and mortar. Clean up paint spills and dispose of waste safely. Store substances properly to avoid leaks and spills.

Lawn and garden

When watering, make sure that you apply just enough water without allowing excess water to flow down the driveway or into the street. Water flowing over the land picks up an array of contaminants. Limit the use of pesticides and herbicides. When use is necessary, use these chemicals in the recommended amounts. Avoid application if the forecast calls for rain; otherwise, chemicals will be washed in your local stream. Sweep up yard debris rather than hosing down areas. Compost or recycle yard waste when possible. Cover piles of dirt and mulch being used in landscaping projects to prevent these pollutants from blowing or washing off your yard into local waterbodies. Vegetate bare spots in your yard to prevent soil erosion.

Pet care

Pick up pet waste and dispose of it properly. Leaving pet waste on the ground increases public health risks by allowing harmful bacteria to wash into the storm drain and eventually into local waterbodies.

Report illegal dumping

If you see illegal dumping, see spill reporting information.

Swimming pools

Drain your pool into the sanitary sewer system. Properly store pool and spa chemicals to prevent leaks and spills.

Vehicle and garage

Check your car, motorcycle, machinery, and equipment for leaks and spills. Maintain your vehicle to be leak-free and make repairs as soon as possible to keep automotive fluids off of paved areas. Clean up spilled fluids with an absorbent material, and don’t rinse the spills into a nearby storm drain. Recycle used oil and other automotive fluids at participating service stations. Don’t dump these chemicals down the storm drain or dispose of them in your trash.