Prevent Stormwater Pollution

Everything that goes onto our streets or down any interior or exterior drain has the potential to end up in our waterways. So much of our economy, quality of life and eco-system are dependent upon clean water, therefore, it is essential that we do everything possible to prevent water pollution.

What is stormwater?

Stormwater is untreated water that drains from the surface of roofs, lawns, streets and other paved surfaces through the City’s storm drain system. This includes water from rain, irrigation, car washing and even that cooler of ice that you may empty. Virtually any water that hits City streets will flow to a storm drain -- and eventually to our waterways.

What is stormwater pollution?

Rainwater and water from hoses and sprinklers can wash loose trash down storm drains and into our waterways. There are plenty of opportunities for storm water to pick up floating debris due to frequent summer rainstorms. Along the way to the City's storm drains, this water picks up pollutants, including street debris like cigarette butts, Styrofoam cups, and fast-food wrappers. The moving water can also become mixed with chemicals, pesticides, fertilizers, motor oil and car fluids which runoff from homes and businesses, as well as grass clippings and pet waste. Leaking and improperly maintained septic systems can also disperse to the stormwater on its way to a drain. Even what you wash down your sink or shower, or flush down your toilet could cause blockages, which can cause broken pipes, resulting in water free-flowing back to waterways. The result is polluted stormwater.

Where does stormwater go?

Storm systems are built to recycle water by returning clean rainwater to the water cycle, flowing it back into our waterways. However, this process also carries any debris from stormwater through the drainage system, ultimately depositing it into the same waterways. As a result, this debris can end up in the waters where we boat and fish, where marine mammals thrive, where shorebirds nest, and where tourists enjoy the scenery. The good news is, this can be prevented.

What are the effects of stormwater pollution?

Stormwater pollution poses a health risk, harms marine life, closes beaches, contaminates the ocean, impacts the economy, harms the environment, affects neighborhoods and property values, clogs gutters and catch basins, attracts rodents, creates unpleasant odors.

How can you stop stormwater pollution?

1. Report illegal dumping into the storm drains, clogged storm drains, or overflowing manholes by calling the Public Works Department at 954-946-7386.

2. Use lawn and garden products sparingly. The use of excess fertilizer results in pollutants contaminating the waterways in stormwater runoff when it rains. Use fertilizers with less than 2% phosphorous and organic, biodegradable, non-toxic pesticides.

3. Check all vehicles, motorcycles, boats and other watercraft and outdoor recreational vehicles for leaks.

4. Dispose of household hazardous waste properly.

5. Maintain swale areas for proper drainage and retention.

6. Sweep paved surfaces instead of hosing them down.

7. Dispose of yard waste and clippings properly.

8. Xeriscape with native, drought and pest resistant plants.

9. Purchase biodegradable, nontoxic, recycled/recyclable products when possible.

10. Pick up pet waste. Pet waste can add nutrient pollution to our waterways. Leaving pet waste behind is unlawful and is a form of littering.