Home BMPs
Kitchen
Fats, oil, and grease (FOG) from cooking should not be poured into kitchen sinks. It can build-up in sewer pipes and cause sewage to overflow into the storm drain system. This system allows storm water to flow untreated into local waterways.
Do not put oil or grease down the sink, drain, toilet, or storm drain.
Solidify cooking oil with an absorbent material such as cat litter or coffee grounds.
Dispose of oil, grease, or absorbent material used at your local household hazardous waste facility.
Home Repair
Materials, dust, debris, and paint products from home repair and improvement can be picked up by storm water and washed into local storm drains.
Concrete and Masonry - Store bags of cement and plaster away from gutters and storm drains. Cover and store to protect against rain, wind, and runoff. Scoop up concrete washout and sweep up concrete dust. Never hose these materials into the street or storm drain.
Water-Based Paints - Consider using water-based paint whenever possible. They are less toxic and clean up easier.
Painting Cleanup - Never clean brushes or rinse paint containers in the street, gutter, or near a storm drain. Clean water based-paint supplies in the sink. Clean oil-based paint supplies with paint thinner and recapture the thinner in a sealed container.
Paint Removal - Pick up chips and dust instead of sweeping them into the street. If using high pressure water, divert wash water into a designated soil area and block nearby storm drains.
Proper Disposal - Take extra paint, paint thinners, and waste products to your local Household Hazardous Waste Facility for recycling or proper disposal.
General
Make sure outside trash and recycling containers have a tight-fitting lid to prevent materials from blowing out or attracting animals.
Recycle materials like glass, plastics, cans, and newspapers when possible.
Consider composting kitchen food waste.
Take any unwanted cleaning solutions to your local household hazardous waste facility. (listed above)
Report illegal dumping to local authorities.
Swimming Pools
Dechlorinate the water before draining your pool.
Drain your pool into the sanitary sewer system or drain your pool to a grassy area of your property being sure not to flood your neighbor’s property or cause erosion.
Properly store pool and spa chemicals to prevent leaks and spills. Take any unused or unwanted chemicals to your local household hazardous waste facility. (see locations above)