Is it okay to wash or sweep leaves, grass, soil, and/or other natural elements down the storm drain?
Grass and leaves repeatedly swept or washed into the storm drains can become a breeding ground for rodents and insects and can clog drains, causing localized flooding. Plant matter washed into bodies of water deprives aquatic life of oxygen as well. Soil is easily washed into storm drains when it rains and is a serious problem at many construction areas. This sediment clouds water and destroys aquatic habitats.

Show All Answers

1. Isn't stormwater runoff natural and harmless?
2. How can I get involved?
3. What kinds of pollutants are found in the stormwater system?
4. What is NPDES?
5. Does the City have to follow the same rules?
6. Is it okay to wash or sweep leaves, grass, soil, and/or other natural elements down the storm drain?
7. Why should I care about what goes down the storm drain?
8. What Is Soil Erosion?