Environment
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES)
Did you know that our sewer and storm water systems drain to different areas? Storm drains are separate from the City's sanitary sewer. At the front of the curb and gutters, there are inlets that are intended to collect runoff from the rain; whereas water from our sinks and toilets drain to the sanitary sewer. Wastewater that enters the sanitary sewer system undergoes treatment prior to discharge into the environment.
Storm Drain Pollutants
Storm drains create a huge potential for polluting the environment. That's because everything that goes into the street, gutters, or storm drains - including litter, used motor oil, paint, pesticides, and other harmful pollutants - goes straight into local waterways and eventually the ocean. Storm Water runoff from the storm drains is not filtered or treated. Even natural things like leaves, yard clippings, and soil can harm our waterways. They create a lack of oxygen in the water, killing aquatic plants and animals. Pesticides and fertilizer from your yard can also make their way to the ocean if you over water and the water runs into the gutter.
Clean Water Act (CWA)
Under the Federal Clean Water Act of 1972, each county and municipality throughout the nation is issued a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permit. In 1987, the CWA was amended to shift the program's focus to establish requirements for storm water discharges. The City of Rialto, along with fifteen other cities, the San Bernardino County Flood Control District, and the County of San Bernardino, has joined the NPDES Storm Water Permit. The City recognizes the need to reduce the pollution carried by storm water into local rivers and creeks.
Resident & Business Owner Responsibilities
Storm water pollution prevention requires each resident and business owner to make a commitment to changing daily routines and habits that adversely impact our water quality. The City has updated its Storm Water Program to include the necessary Best Management Practices (BMPs) to control storm water pollution.
Compliance
The City is now responsible for ensuring, to the maximum extent practicable, that all businesses and residents comply with these State mandates. By not complying, the City could bear a substantial fine of a maximum of $10,000 per day. Therefore, releasing pollutants into the storm drain system is a violation of the City's Storm Water Ordinance included in the City's Municipal Code.
Illegal Dumping
Remember! Storm drains are for rain only!
To report illegal dumping call 877-WASTE-18 (877-927-8318).
Contact
For more information please contact:
- NPDES
Phone: 909-421-4921
Fax: 909-421-7210 - Maintenance & Facilities
Phone: 909-820-2602