Power washing can dislodge pollutants (like paint chips or oily sediments) and cause chemical residues and soaps to flow into the storm drain system, harming aquatic life and habitat.

• Clean sidewalks and driveways with a brush or broom, rather than power washing.
• If you must power wash, sweep the surface before washing and use absorbents on oil spots.
• Avoid cleaning compounds whenever possible.
• Identify the nearest storm drain and prevent surface runoff from entering.
• Info Sheet: Power Washing Without Pollution (PDF)

All paints, solvents and adhesives contain chemicals that are harmful to aquatic life in our waterways.

• Ensure that all liquid paint products and waste do not enter our storm drains.
• Never pour excess paint on the ground or down storm drains.
• Ensure paints and solvents are stored safely and/or recycled.
• Be prepared for a spill by having absorbent materials and other clean up items accessible.
• Info Sheet: Painting Without Pollution (PDF)

Pools and spas or hot tubs contain saltwater, chlorine or bromine along with algaecide, fungicide, and chemical sanitizers. Draining these waters improperly can harm fish in our local waterways.

• Do not drain water from pools, spas, or hot tubs down the storm drain.
• Safely store and dispose of chemicals and additives according to the instructions on the label.
• If unsure, contact your municipal public works department for advice on how to deal with pool and spa water.
• Info Sheet: Pool & Spa Water Disposal (PDF)

Pesticides and fertilizers can pollute soil and groundwater and can remain in the environment for a long time after application. The chemicals in pesticides and fertilizers pollute our streams, creeks, and waterways if they enter our stormwater system.

• Never pour chemicals down the storm drain or onto the ground.
• Properly dispose of unwanted pesticides and chemicals according to the instructions on the label.
• Use natural gardening techniques, practice crop rotation and garden with native plants.
• Encourage the presence of beneficial creatures that will naturally enhance your garden and lawn (spiders, bees, ladybugs, frogs, and bats).
• Fertilize with organic compost that will not harm the environment.
• Manage pests without pesticides.

As we continue to build urban communities, native soils and trees are removed to create impervious surfaces. Impervious surfaces (roads, roofs, parking lots, sidewalks and paved driveways) prevent rainwater from passing into the soil below. The increase in impervious surfaces results in much higher surface runoff into our stormwater system, which can cause flooding, erosion, pollution and habitat degradation.  Read more here about managing your rainwater.