Stormwater Smart

• Follow directions on pesticides and fertilizers, (measure, do not estimate amounts) and do not use if rain is predicted within 48 hours.
• Water your lawn and garden by hand to control the amount of water you use.
• Set irrigation systems to reflect seasonal water needs. If water flows off your yard and onto your driveway or sidewalk, your system is over-watering.
• Mulch grass clippings or leave them on the lawn. If necessary, dispose in a green waste container.
• Prevent urban runoff by taking your car to a commercial car wash whenever possible.
• When cleaning around the house choose soaps, cleaners, or detergents labeled “non-toxic,” “phosphate free” or “biodegradable.”
• When cleaning your car, shake floor mats into a trash can or vacuum to clean.
• Take your vehicle to a commercial carwash where the washwater is recycled and sent to the sanitation district.
• Use a nozzle to turn off water when not actively washing down your car.
• Monitor vehicles for leaks and place pans under leaks. Keep your car well maintained to stop and prevent leaks.
• Use cat litter or other absorbents and sweep to remove liquids left by vehicles or any other kind of outdoor “wet spill.”
• Perform automobile repair and maintenance under a covered area and use drip pans or plastic sheeting to keep spills and waste material from reaching storm drains.
• Never pour oil or antifreeze in the street, gutter or storm drains. Recycle these substances at a service station or used oil recycling center.
• Store household hazardous waste (HHW) in closed, labeled containers inside or under a cover and dispose of them at an HHW collection center.
• Do not hose down your driveway, sidewalk or patio. Sweep up debris and dispose of it in the trash.
• Always pick up after your pet. Flush waste down the toilet or dispose of it in the trash.
• Bathe pets indoors or have them professionally groomed.