28_Municipal Operation and Maintenance Manual

Stormwater Operation
and Maintenance Manual

PREPARED BY
CITY OF BURLINGTON – WATER RESOURCES
STORMWATER DIVISION

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Description of Municipal Facility
Responsible Department and Division:

Facility Name and Address:
Contact: Phone number:
Watershed:
Description of Site Activities:

Standard Stormwater Procedures (SSPs) applicable: (Check all that apply)
 Non-Stormwater Discharges SSP-1 ................................ Error! Bookmark not defined.
 Spill Prevention, Control & Cleanup SSP-2 .................. Error! Bookmark not defined.
 Vehicle and Equipment Fueling SSP-3 ........................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
 Vehicle and Equipment Cleaning SSP-4 ........................ Error! Bookmark not defined.
 Vehicle and Equipment Repair SSP-5 ............................ Error! Bookmark not defined.
 Outdoor Loading/Unloading SSP-6 ................................ Error! Bookmark not defined.
 Outdoor Container Storage SSP-7 .................................. Error! Bookmark not defined.
 Outdoor Equipment Maintenance SSP-8 ....................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
 Outdoor Storage of Raw Materials SSP-9 ...................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
 Waste Handling & Disposal (solid waste) SSP-10 ..... Error! Bookmark not defined.
 Building & Grounds Maintenance SSP-11 ................. Error! Bookmark not defined.
 Parking/Storage Area Maintenance SSP-12 .............. Error! Bookmark not defined.
 Housekeeping Practices SSP-13 .................................. Error! Bookmark not defined.
 Safer Alternative Products SSP-14 ............................. Error! Bookmark not defined.
 Road and Street Maintenance SSP-15 ........................ Error! Bookmark not defined.
 Salt Application and Storage SSP-16 .......................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
 Plaza and Sidewalk Cleaning SSP-17 ......................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
 Fountain & Pool Maintenance SSP-18 ....................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
 Landscape Maintenance SSP-19 ................................. Error! Bookmark not defined.
 Drainage System Maintenance SSP-20 ....................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
 Waste Handling and Disposal SSP-21 ........................ Error! Bookmark not defined.
 Water & Sewer Utility Maintenance SSP-22 ............. Error! Bookmark not defined.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 Introduction..................................................................................................... 6
2 Purpose and Scope of the Manual ................................................................. 6
3 Stormwater Pollution Prevention Planning for Municipal Operations .............. 7
4 Assessment .................................................................................................... 7
4.1 Assessment of Fixed Facilities ................................................................. 8
4.2 Assessment of Field Programs ................................................................ 8
4.3 Fixed Facility Activities (Potential Pollutants) ........................................... 9
4.4 Fixed Facility Activities (Municipal Departments) ................................... 10
4.5 Field Program Activities (Potential Pollutants) ....................................... 11
4.6 Field Program Activities (Municipal Departments) ................................. 12
5 Selection of BMPs ........................................................................................ 13
6 Stormwater Standard Procedure BMPs ....................................................... 14
6.1 Non-Stormwater Discharges SSP-1 ...................................................... 15
6.2 Spill Prevention, Control & Cleanup SSP-2 ........................................... 20
6.3 Vehicle and Equipment Fueling SSP-3 .................................................. 24
6.4 Vehicle and Equipment Cleaning SSP-4 ............................................... 27
6.5 Vehicle and Equipment Repair SSP-5 ................................................... 29
6.6 Outdoor Loading/Unloading SSP-6 ........................................................ 32
6.7 Outdoor Container Storage SSP-7 ........................................................ 34
6.8 Outdoor Equipment Maintenance SSP-8 ............................................... 37
6.9 Outdoor Storage of Raw Materials SSP-9 ............................................. 39
6.10 Waste Handling & Disposal (solid waste) SSP-10 .............................. 41
6.11 Building & Grounds Maintenance SSP-11 .......................................... 44
6.12 Parking/Storage Area Maintenance SSP-12 ...................................... 48
6.13 Housekeeping Practices SSP-13 ........................................................ 50
6.14 Safer Alternative Products SSP-14 ..................................................... 52
6.15 Road and Street Maintenance SSP-15 ............................................... 53
6.16 Salt Application and Storage SSP-16 ................................................. 58
6.17 Plaza and Sidewalk Cleaning SSP-17 ................................................ 60
6.18 Fountain & Pool Maintenance SSP-18 ............................................... 63
6.19 Landscape Maintenance SSP-19 ....................................................... 65
6.20 Drainage System Maintenance SSP-20 ............................................. 69
6.21 Waste Handling and Disposal SSP-21 ............................................... 71
6.22 Water & Sewer Utility Maintenance SSP-22 ....................................... 73
7 BMP Implementation and Evaluation ........................................................... 76
Introduction ..................................................................................................... 76
BMP Implementation ....................................................................................... 76
Staff Training ................................................................................................... 76
Site Inspections ............................................................................................... 77
Recordkeeping ................................................................................................ 78
Reporting ......................................................................................................... 78
8 Appendix A ................................................................................................... 80
8.1 Assessment of Municipal Operations ..................................................... 80
9 Appendix B ................................................................................................... 82
9.1 Municipal Operations Inventory ............................................................. 82
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1 Introduction
Stormwater runoff is part of a natural hydrologic process. Human activities particularly
urbanization and agriculture, can alter natural drainage patterns and add pollutants to
rivers, lakes, and streams as well as coastal bays, estuaries, and ultimately, the ocean.
Numerous studies have shown urban runoff to be a significant source of water pollution,
causing declines in fisheries, restricting swimming, and limiting our ability to enjoy many
of the other benefits that water resources provide. Urban runoff in this context includes
all flows discharged from urban land uses into stormwater conveyance systems and
receiving waters and includes both dry weather non-stormwater sources (e.g., runoff from
landscape irrigation, water line and hydrant flushing) and wet weather stormwater runoff.
In this manual, urban runoff and stormwater runoff are used interchangeably.

For many years, the effort to control the discharge of stormwater focused mainly on the
quantity (e.g. drainage, flood control) and, only to a limited extent, on the quality of the
stormwater (e.g. sediment and erosion control). In recent years, however, awareness of
the need to improve water quality has increased. With this awareness, federal, state, and
local programs have been established to reduce pollutants contained in stormwater
discharges to our waterways. The emphasis of these programs is to promote the concept
and the practice of preventing pollution at the source, before it can cause environmental
problems. Where further controls are needed, treatment of polluted runoff may be
required.

Stormwater runoff naturally contains numerous constituents; however, urbanization and
urban activities (including municipal activities) typically increase constituent
concentrations to levels that may impact water quality. Pollutants associated with
stormwater include sediment, nutrients, bacteria and viruses, oil and grease, metals,
organics, pesticides, and gross pollutants (floatables).

2 Purpose and Scope of the Manual
This Manual is primarily designed to assist municipal staff with incorporating pollution
prevention controls into their overall stormwater management program and specifically
publicly owned/operated facilities (fixed facilities) and field activities (field programs).
Managers and employees of the various municipal facilities and municipal field programs
may find this manual especially helpful when implementing and evaluating the
effectiveness of these stormwater management efforts.

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3 Stormwater Pollution Prevention Planning for
Municipal Operations
Municipalities are required to develop and implement a comprehensive stormwater
management program including the reduction of pollutants from municipal operations. In
this section, a planning process is suggested for municipal operations, which allows the
municipality to identify the activities that generate pollutants and the best management
practices (BMPs) applicable to the activities. The recommended process includes the
following key components:

▪ Identification: Potential Pollutants are identified which are likely to be generated
during municipal activities for both fixed facilities and field programs.
(Sections 4.1 and 4.3)
▪ Inventory: An inventory is developed of all municipal activities at fixed facilities and
for field programs that may be a source of the potential pollutants identified.
(Sections 4.2 and 4.4)
▪ Assessment: Each municipal activity is evaluated for their potential to discharge
pollutants to storm drains and/or to receiving waters. (Appendix A)
▪ BMP Selection: BMPs are then selected to deal with the identified sources of
stormwater pollution. Emphasis is placed on Stormwater Standard Procedure BMPs.
▪ Implementation: BMPs are implemented and their effectiveness evaluated. The
monitoring, reporting, and inspection requirements of the BMPs is oriented toward
gaining insight into the performance of the BMPs.

Municipalities conduct various activities that are sources of pollutants in stormwater
runoff. For the purpose of this manual, these activities are categorized according to
whether they occur at a specific location (fixed facility) or across a broader and non-
specific area (field programs). Some of these activities are summarized in the list below.
All activities are discussed in more detail in the tables in this section. These activities
must be addressed through the implementation of BMPs to minimize or eliminate the
pollutants from entering the local water bodies or drainage system.

▪ Fixed Facilities – specific locations municipalities own and operate and at which
municipal activities occur. These types of facilities may also be municipally owned
but privately leased.
▪ Field Programs - a set of related municipal activities that take place throughout the
municipality. These types of activities may also be privately contracted. Examples of
municipal field programs include roads, streets, and highways maintenance, and
drainage system operation and maintenance.
4 Assessment
This section outlines the procedures for assessing fixed facilities and field programs for
BMP selection and implementation. Data gathered during the inventory process should be
used to support the assessment process described below.

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4.1 Assessment of Fixed Facilities
The first step in the assessment is to identify BMPs already in place at a facility. These
may include pavement sweeping, drain inlet cleaning, covered waste storage bins, and
spill prevention and cleanup procedures. This information should be considered when
determining which BMPs should be selected and implemented at a site. Other BMPs that
were installed for reasons unrelated to stormwater control, such as berming, covered
materials storage, and designated wash areas, should also be identified.

Once the existing BMPs have been identified and the inventory completed, an assessment
of all municipal activities and potential pollutant sources should be conducted to
determine which areas of the facility are likely sources of pollutants in stormwater and
non-stormwater discharges, and which pollutants are likely to be present in stormwater
and non-stormwater discharges.

Facility operators must then decide whether additional or new BMPs should be
implemented to reduce stormwater pollutants to the maximum extent practicable from a
site. The municipality should consider and evaluate various factors when performing this
assessment, such as:

▪ effectiveness of current BMPs
▪ type of activities
▪ type and quantities of significant materials handled, produced, stored, or disposed of
▪ history of spill or leaks
▪ non-stormwater discharges
▪ size of facility (including percent impervious)
▪ proximity to receiving water and/or type of receiving water

The department should also consider whether its facility is discharging pollutants
identified to be causing impairment in the local water bodies.

4.2 Assessment of Field Programs
Similar to the effort at a fixed facility a municipality should identify BMPs that are
already in place and the extent of their effectiveness. Using this information and the
inventory data the department can identify the activities with the potential for discharging
pollutants, the type of pollutants being discharged, and the extent that the pollutants are
being addressed with current procedures or BMPs. The department can then assess
whether additional or new BMPs are necessary. In considering the need for new or
additional BMPs, a municipality should consider:

▪ effectiveness of current BMPs
▪ type of field program and pollutants being discharged
▪ exposure of activities to stormwater
▪ land use category
▪ proximity to receiving water and/or type of receiving water
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4.3 Fixed Facility Activities (Potential Pollutants)

Potential Pollutants Likely Associated
with Fixed Facility Activities

Fixed Facility
Activity with
Identifier Number
Potential Pollutants Sediment Nutrients Trash Metals Bacteria Oil & Grease Organics Pesticides Oxygen Demanding Substances (1) Building and
Grounds
Maintenance and
Repair
x x x x x x x x x
(2) Parking/Storage
Area Maintenance x x x x x x x x
(3) Waste Handling
and Disposal x x x x x x x x x
(4) Vehicle and
Equipment Fueling x x x x
(5) Vehicle and
Equipment
Maintenance
Repair
x x x
(6) Vehicle and
Equipment
Cleaning
x x x x x x
(7) Outdoor
Loading and
Unloading
Materials
x x x x x x x x
(8) Outdoor
Container Storage
of Liquids
x x x x x x
(9) Outdoor
Storage of Raw
Materials
x x x x x x x
(10) Outdoor
Process Equipment x x x x x
(11) Landscape
Maintenance x x x x x x
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4.4 Fixed Facility Activities (Municipal Departments)

Municipal Department Association
with Fixed Facility Activities

Fixed Facility
Activity with
Identifier Number
Recreation
and Parks Public Works Water Resources Athletic Maintenance Facility Maintenance Streets Div. Cemetery and Grounds Sanitation Facility Maintenance Equipment Services WSPM Facility Maintence Stormwater (1) Building and
Grounds
Maintenance and
Repair
x x x x x x
(2) Parking/Storage
Area Maintenance x x x x x x x x x x
(3) Waste Handling
and Disposal x x x x x x x x x x
(4) Vehicle and
Equipment Fueling x x x x x x x x x x
(5) Vehicle and
Equipment
Maintenance Repair
x
(6) Vehicle and
Equipment
Cleaning
x x x x x x x x x x
(7) Outdoor
Loading and
Unloading
Materials
x x x x x x x x x x
(8) Outdoor
Container Storage
of Liquids
x x x x x
(9) Outdoor Storage
of Raw Materials x x x x x x
(10) Outdoor
Process Equipment x x x x x x x x x x
(11) Landscape
Maintenance x x x x x x
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4.5 Field Program Activities (Potential Pollutants)
Field Program Activities and Associated Potential Pollutants
Field Programs Activities
Potential Pollutants Sediment Nutrients Trash Metals Bacteria Oil & Grease Organics Pesticides Oxygen Demanding Substances Roads, Streets, and
Highways Operation
and Maintenance
Sweeping and Cleaning x x x x x
Street Repair, Maintenance,
and Striping/Painting x x x x x
Sidewalk and Parking
Lot Maintenance and
Cleaning
Surface Cleaning x x x x x
Graffiti Cleaning x x x x
Sidewalk Repair x x
Controlling Litter x x x x x
Fountains, Pools and
Pond Maintenance
Fountain and Pool Draining x x x x x x x x
Pond Maintenance x x x
Landscape Maintenance
Mowing/Trimming/Planting x x x x x x
Fertilizer & Pesticide
Management x x x
Managing Landscape Wastes x x x
Erosion Control x x
Drainage System
Operation and
Maintenance
Inspection and Cleaning of
Stormwater Conveyance
Structures
x x x x x x
Controlling Illicit Connections
and Discharges x x x x x x x x x
Controlling Illegal Dumping x x x x x x x x x
Maintenance of Inlet and
Outlet Structures x x x x x
Waste Handling and
Disposal
Solid Waste Collection x x x x x x x
Waste Reduction and
Recycling x x x
Household Hazardous Waste
Collection x x x x x
Controlling Litter x x x x x
Controlling Illegal Dumping x x x x x x
Water and Sewer
Utility Operation and
Maintenance
Water line Maintenance x x x
Sanitary Sewer Maintenance x x x x
Spill/Leak/Overflow Control,
Response, and Containment x x x x x

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4.6 Field Program Activities (Municipal Departments)
Municipal Departments Associated with Field Program Activities
Field Programs Activities
Recreation
and Parks Public Works Water
Resources Athletic Maintenance Facility Maintenance Streets Div. Cemetery and Grounds Sanitation Facility Maintenance Equipment Services WSPM Facility Maintenance Stormwater Roads, Streets, and
Highways Operation
and Maintenance
Sweeping and Cleaning x x x x
Street Repair, Maintenance,
and Striping/Painting x x
Sidewalk and
Parking Lot
Maintenance and
Cleaning
Surface Cleaning x x x x x x x
Graffiti Cleaning x x x
Sidewalk Repair x x
Controlling Litter x x x x x x x x
Fountains, Pools and
Pond Maintenance
Fountain and Pool Draining x
Pond Maintenance x x
Landscape
Maintenance
Mowing/Trimming/Planting x x x x x x x
Fertilizer & Pesticide
Management x x x x x x x
Managing Landscape Wastes x x x x x x x x
Erosion Control x x x x x x x
Drainage System
Operation and
Maintenance
Inspection and Cleaning of
Stormwater Conveyance
Structures
x x x x
Controlling Illicit
Connections and Discharges x x x
Controlling Illegal Dumping x x
Maintenance of Inlet and
Outlet Structures x x x x x x x
Waste Handling and
Disposal
Solid Waste Collection x x x x
Waste Reduction and
Recycling x x x x x x
Household Hazardous Waste
Collection x x x x
Controlling Litter x x x x x x x x
Controlling Illegal Dumping x x x
Water and Sewer
Utility Operation
and Maintenance
Water line Maintenance x x
Sanitary Sewer Maintenance x x
Spill/Leak/Overflow Control,
Response, and Containment x x x
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5 Selection of BMPs
Selection of BMPs should focus on source control BMPs. Source control BMPs will
serve to reduce pollutants from activities to the maximum extent practicable.

Municipal departments can identify and select BMPs from those presented in Section 6
Stormwater Standard Procedure BMPs. The BMPs are described in activity-based and
field program-based fact sheets that also provide information on the pollutants that can be
addressed by the BMP. The BMPs shown in Section 6 are a comprehensive collection
and not all may be applicable to all fixed facility or field program activities. In order to be
effective, BMPs must be appropriate to the application and properly implemented.

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6 Stormwater Standard Procedure BMPs
Table 3-1 Municipal Stormwater Standard Procedures
Non-Stormwater Management
SSP-1 Non-Stormwater Discharges
SSP-2 Spill Prevention, Control and Cleanup
Vehicle and Equipment Management
SSP-3 Vehicle and Equipment Fueling
SSP-4 Vehicle and Equipment Cleaning
SSP-5 Vehicle and Equipment Repair
Material and Waste Management
SSP-6 Outdoor Loading/Unloading
SSP-7 Outdoor Container Storage
SSP-8 SSP-7 SSP-8 Outdoor Equipment Maintenance
SSP-9 Outdoor Storage of Raw Materials
SSP-10 Waste Handling and Disposal
Building and Grounds Management
SSP-11 Building and Grounds Maintenance
SSP-12 Parking/Storage Area Maintenance
General Stormwater Management
SSP-13 Housekeeping Practices
SSP-14 Safer Alternative Products
Table 3-2 Municipal Field Program BMPs
SSP-15 Road and Street Maintenance
SSP-16 Salt Application and Storage
SSP-17 Plaza and Sidewalk Cleaning
SSP-18 Fountains & Pools Maintenance
SSP-19 Landscape Maintenance
SSP-20 Drainage System Maintenance
SSP-21 Waste Handling and Disposal
SSP-22 Water and Sewer Utility Maintenance
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6.1 Non-Stormwater Discharges SSP-1

Description
Non-stormwater discharges are those flows that do
not consist entirely of stormwater. For municipalities
non-stormwater discharges present themselves in two
situations. One is from fixed facilities owned and/or
operated by the municipality. The other situation is
non-stormwater discharges that are discovered during
the normal operation of a field program. Some non-
stormwater discharges do not include pollutants and
may be discharged to the storm drain. These include
uncontaminated groundwater and natural springs.
There are also some non-stormwater discharges that
typically do not contain pollutants and may be
discharged to the storm drain with conditions. These
include car washing, and surface cleaning. However, there are certain non-stormwater
discharges that pose environmental concern. These discharges may originate from illegal
dumping or from internal floor drains, appliances, industrial processes, sinks, and toilets
that are connected to the nearby storm drainage system. These discharges (which may
include: process waste waters, cooling waters, wash waters, (and sanitary wastewater)
can carry substances (such as paint, oil, fuel and other automotive fluids, chemicals and
other pollutants) into storm drains. The ultimate goal is to effectively eliminate non-
stormwater discharges to the stormwater drainage system through implementation of
measures to detect, correct, and enforce against illicit connections and illegal discharges.

Approach
The municipality must address non-stormwater discharges from its fixed facilities by
assessing the types of non-stormwater discharges and implementing BMPs for the
discharges determined to pose environmental concern. For field programs the field staff
must be trained to know what to look for regarding non-stormwater discharges and the
procedures to follow in investigating the detected discharges.

Suggested Protocols

Fixed Facility

General
▪ Stencil storm drains, where applicable, to prevent illegal disposal of pollutants. Storm
drain inlets should have messages such as “Dump No Waste Drains to Stream”
stenciled next to them to warn against ignorant or intentional dumping of pollutants
into the storm drainage system.
▪ Landscaping and beautification efforts of hot spots might also discourage future
dumping, as well as provide open space and increase property values.
Objectives
▪ Contain
▪ Educate
▪ Reduce/Minimize

Targeted Constituents
Sediment ✓
Nutrients ✓
Trash ✓
Metals ✓
Bacteria ✓
Oil and Grease ✓
Organics ✓
Oxygen Demanding ✓
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▪ Lighting or barriers may also be needed to discourage future dumping.

Illicit Connections
▪ Locate discharges from the fixed facility drainage system to the municipal storm
drain system through review of “as-built” piping schematics.
▪ Use techniques such as smoke testing, dye testing and television camera inspection
(as noted below) to verify physical connections.
▪ Isolate problem areas and plug illicit discharge points.

Visual Inspection and Inventory
▪ Inventory and inspect each discharge point during dry weather.
▪ Keep in mind that drainage from a storm event can continue for several days
following the end of a storm and groundwater may infiltrate the underground
stormwater collection system. Also, non-stormwater discharges are often intermittent
and may require periodic inspections.

Review Infield Piping
▪ Review the “as-built” piping schematic as a way to determine if there are any
connections to the stormwater collection system.
▪ Inspect the path of floor drains in older buildings.

Smoke Testing
▪ Smoke testing of wastewater and stormwater collection systems is used to detect
connections between the two systems.
▪ During dry weather the stormwater collection system is filled with smoke and then
traced to sources. The appearance of smoke at the base of a toilet indicates that there
may be a connection between the sanitary and the stormwater system.

Dye Testing
▪ A dye test can be performed by simply releasing a dye into either your sanitary or
process wastewater system and examining the discharge points from the stormwater
collection system for discoloration.

TV Inspection of Storm Sewer
▪ TV Cameras can be employed to visually identify illicit connections to the fixed
facility storm drain system.

Illegal Dumping
▪ Regularly inspect and clean up hot spots and other storm drainage areas where illegal
dumping and disposal occurs.
▪ Clean up spills on paved surfaces with as little water as possible. Use a rag for small
spills, a damp mop for general cleanup, and absorbent material for larger spills. If the
spilled material is hazardous, then the used cleanup materials are also hazardous and
must be sent to a certified laundry (rags) or disposed of as hazardous waste.
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▪ Never hose down or bury dry material spills. Sweep up the material and dispose of
properly.
▪ Use adsorbent materials on small spills rather than hosing down the spill. Remove the
adsorbent materials promptly and dispose of properly.
▪ For larger spills, a private spill cleanup company or Hazmat team may be necessary.
▪ See fact sheet SC-2 Spill Prevention, Control, and Clean Up.

Field Program

General
▪ Develop clear protocols and lines of communication for effectively prohibiting non-
stormwater discharges, especially ones that involve more than one jurisdiction and
those that are not classified as hazardous, which are often not responded to as
effectively as they need to be.
▪ Stencil storm drains, where applicable, to prevent illegal disposal of pollutants. Storm
drain inlets should have messages such as “Dump No Waste Drains to Stream”
stenciled next to them to warn against ignorant or intentional dumping of pollutants
into the storm drainage system
▪ See SC-20 Stormwater Drainage System Maintenance for additional information.

Field Inspection
▪ Regularly inspect and clean up hot spots and other storm drainage areas where illegal
dumping and disposal occurs.
▪ During routine field program maintenance field staff should look for evidence of
illegal discharges or illicit connection:
- Is there evidence of spills such as paints, discoloring, etc.
- Are there any odors associated with the drainage system
- Record locations of apparent illegal discharges/illicit connections and
notify appropriate investigating agency.
▪ If trained, conduct field investigation of non-stormwater discharges to determine
whether they pose a threat to water quality.

Recommended Complaint Investigation Equipment
▪ Field Screening Analysis
- pH paper or meter
- Commercial stormwater pollutant screening kit that can detect for reactive
phosphorus, nitrate nitrogen, ammonium nitrogen, specific conductance,
and turbidity
- Sample jars
- Sample collection pole
- A tool to remove access hole covers
▪ Laboratory Analysis
- Sample cooler
- Ice
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- Sample jars and labels
- Chain of custody forms.
▪ Documentation
- Camera
- Notebook
- Pens
- Notice of Violation forms
- Educational materials

Reporting
▪ A database is useful for defining and tracking the magnitude and location of the
problem.
▪ Report prohibited non-stormwater discharges observed during the course of normal
daily activities so they can be investigated, contained and cleaned up or eliminated.
▪ Document that non-stormwater discharges have been eliminated by recording tests
performed, methods used, dates of testing, and any onsite drainage points observed.
▪ Maintain documentation of illicit connection and illegal dumping incidents, including
significant conditionally exempt discharges that are not properly managed.

Enforcement
▪ Educate the responsible party if identified on the impacts of their actions, explain the
stormwater requirements, and provide information regarding Best Management
Practices (BMP), as appropriate. Initiate follow-up and/or enforcement procedures.
▪ If an illegal discharge is traced to a commercial, residential or industrial source,
conduct the following activities or coordinate the following activities with the
appropriate agency:
- Contact the responsible party to discuss methods of eliminating the non-
stormwater discharge, including disposal options, recycling, and possible
discharge to the sanitary sewer (if within POTW limits).
- Provide information regarding BMPs to the responsible party, where
appropriate.
- Begin enforcement procedures, if appropriate.
- Continue inspection and follow-up activities until the illicit discharge
activity has ceased.
▪ If an illegal discharge is traced to a commercial or industrial activity, coordinate
information on the discharge with the jurisdiction's commercial and industrial facility
inspection program.

Training
▪ Train technical staff to identify and document illegal dumping incidents.
▪ Well-trained employees can reduce human errors that lead to accidental releases or
spills.
▪ The employee should have the tools and knowledge to immediately begin cleaning up
a spill if one should occur. Employees should be familiar with the Spill Prevention
Control and Countermeasure Plan.
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▪ Train employees to identify non-stormwater discharges and report them to the
appropriate departments.
▪ Train staff that has the authority to conduct surveillance and inspections, and write
citations for those caught illegally dumping.
▪ Train municipal staff responsible for surveillance and inspection.
▪ Educate the identified responsible party on the impacts of his or her actions.

Spill Response and Prevention
▪ See SC-2 Spill Prevention Control and Clean Up

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6.2 Spill Prevention, Control & Cleanup SSP-2

Description
Spills and leaks, if not properly controlled, can adversely
impact the storm drain system and receiving waters. Due to
the type of work or the materials involved, many activities
that occur either at a municipal facility or as a part of
municipal field programs have the potential for accidental
spills and leaks. Proper spill response planning and
preparation can enable municipal employees to effectively
respond to problems when they occur and minimize the
discharge of pollutants to the environment.

Approach
▪ An effective Pollution Prevention Plan (P3) should
include:
- Spill/leak prevention measures;
- Spill response procedures;
- Spill cleanup procedures;
- Reporting; and
- Training
▪ A well thought out and implemented plan can prevent pollutants from entering the
storm drainage system and can be used as a tool for training personnel to prevent and
control future spills as well.

Pollution Prevention

▪ Develop and implement a P3. The plan should include:
- A description of the facility, the address, activities and materials involved
- Identification of key spill response personnel
- Identification of the potential spill areas or operations prone to spills/leaks
- Identification of which areas should be or are bermed to contain
spills/leaks
- Facility map identifying the key locations of areas, activities, materials,
structural BMPs, etc.
- Material handling procedures
- Spill response procedures including:
▪ Assessment of the site and potential impacts
▪ Containment of the material
▪ Notification of the proper personnel and evacuation procedures
▪ Clean up of the site
▪ Disposal of the waste material and
▪ Proper record keeping
Objectives
▪ Contain
▪ Educate
▪ Reduce/Minimize
▪ Product Substitution

Targeted Constituents
Sediment
Nutrients ✓
Trash
Metals ✓
Bacteria
Oil and Grease ✓
Organics ✓
Oxygen Demanding ✓
Stormwater Operation and Maintenance Manual Page 21 of 87
▪ Product substitution – use less toxic materials (i.e. use water based paints instead of
oil based paints)
▪ Recycle, reclaim, or reuse materials whenever possible. This will reduce the amount
of materials that are brought into the facility or into the field.

Suggested Protocols

Spill/Leak Prevention Measures
▪ If possible, move material handling indoors, under cover, or away from storm drains
or sensitive water bodies.
▪ Properly label all containers so that the contents are easily identifiable.
▪ Berm storage areas so that if a spill or leak occurs, the material is contained.
▪ Cover outside storage areas either with a permanent structure or with a seasonal one
such as a tarp so that rain cannot come into contact with the materials.
▪ Check containers (and any containment sumps) often for leaks and spills. Replace
containers that are leaking, corroded, or otherwise deteriorating with containers in
good condition. Collect all spilled liquids and properly dispose of them.
▪ Store, contain and transfer liquid materials in such a manner that if the container is
ruptured or the contents spilled, they will not discharge, flow or be washed into the
storm drainage system, surface waters, or groundwater.
▪ Place drip pans or absorbent materials beneath all mounted taps and at all potential
drip and spill locations during the filling and unloading of containers. Any collected
liquids or soiled absorbent materials should be reused/recycled or properly disposed
of.
▪ For field programs, only transport the minimum amount of material needed for the
daily activities and transfer materials between containers at a municipal yard where
leaks and spill are easier to control.
▪ If paved, sweep and clean storage areas monthly, do not use water to hose down the
area unless all of the water will be collected and disposed of properly.
▪ Install a spill control device (such as a tee section) in any catch basins that collect
runoff from any storage areas if the materials stored are oil, gas, or other materials
that separate from and float on water. This will allow for easier cleanup if a spill
occurs.
▪ If necessary, protect catch basins while conducting field activities so that if a spill
occurs, the material will be contained.

Training
▪ Educate employees about spill prevention, spill response and cleanup on a routine
basis.
▪ Well-trained employees can reduce human errors that lead to accidental releases or
spills:
- The employees should have the tools and knowledge to immediately begin
cleaning up a spill if one should occur.
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▪ Training of staff from all municipal departments should focus on recognizing and
reporting potential or current spills/leaks and who they should contact.

Spill Response and Prevention
▪ Identify key spill response personnel and train employees on who they are.
▪ Store and maintain appropriate spill cleanup materials in a clearly marked location
near storage areas; and train employees to ensure familiarity with the site’s spill
control plan and/or proper spill cleanup procedures.
▪ Locate spill cleanup materials, such as absorbents, where they will be readily
accessible (e.g. near storage and maintenance areas, on field trucks).
▪ Follow the P3.
▪ If a spill occurs, notify the key spill response personnel immediately. If the material is
unknown or hazardous, the local fire department may also need to be contacted.
▪ If safe to do so, attempt to contain the material and block the nearby storm drains so
that the area impacted is minimized. If the material is unknown or hazardous wait for
properly trained personnel to contain the materials.
▪ Perform an assessment of the area where the spill occurred and the downstream area
that it could impact. Relay this information to the key spill response and clean up
personnel.

Spill Cleanup Procedures
▪ Small non-hazardous spills
- Use a rag, damp cloth or absorbent materials for general clean-up of
liquids
- Use brooms or shovels for the general clean-up of dry materials
- If water is used, it must be collected and properly disposed of. The wash
water cannot be allowed to enter the storm drain.
- Dispose of any waste materials properly
- Clean or dispose of any equipment used to clean up the spill properly
▪ Large non-hazardous spills
- Use absorbent materials for general clean-up of liquids
- Use brooms, shovels or street sweepers for the general clean-up of dry
materials
- If water is used, it must be collected and properly disposed of. The wash
water cannot be allowed to enter the storm drain.
- Dispose of any waste materials properly
- Clean or dispose of any equipment used to clean up the spill properly
▪ For hazardous or very large spills, the County Emergency Management Services
Department may need to be contacted to assess the situation and conduct the cleanup
and disposal of the materials.
▪ Chemical cleanups of material can be achieved with the use of absorbents, gels, and
foams. Remove the adsorbent materials promptly and dispose of according to
regulations.

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▪ If the spilled material is hazardous, then the used cleanup materials are also hazardous
and must be sent to a certified laundry (rags) or disposed of as hazardous waste.

Reporting
Record keeping and internal reporting represent good operating practices because they
can increase the efficiency of the response and containment of a spill. A good record
keeping system helps the municipality minimize incident recurrence, correctly respond
with appropriate containment and cleanup activities, and comply with legal requirements.

A record keeping and reporting system should be set up for documenting spills, leaks,
and other discharges, including discharges of hazardous substances in reportable
quantities. Incident records describe the quality and quantity of non-stormwater
discharges to the storm drain.

These records should contain the following information:

▪ Date and time of the incident
▪ Weather conditions
▪ Duration of the spill/leak/discharge
▪ Cause of the spill/leak/discharge
▪ Response procedures implemented
▪ Persons notified
▪ Environmental problems associated with the spill/leak/discharge

Separate record keeping systems should be established to document housekeeping and
preventive maintenance inspections, and training activities. All housekeeping and
preventive maintenance inspections should be documented. Inspection documentation
should contain the following information:

▪ The date and time the inspection was performed
▪ Name of the inspector
▪ Items inspected
▪ Problems noted
▪ Corrective action required
▪ Date corrective action was taken

Other means to document and record inspection results are field notes, timed and dated
photographs, videotapes, and drawings and maps.

Page 24 of 87 Stormwater Operation and Maintenance Manual
6.3 Vehicle and Equipment Fueling SSP-3

Description
Spills and leaks that occur during vehicle and equipment
fueling can contribute hydrocarbons, oil and grease, as well
as heavy metals to stormwater runoff. Implementing the
following management practices can help prevent fuel spills
and leaks.

Approach
Reduce potential for pollutant discharge through source
control pollution prevention and BMP implementation.
Successful implementation depends on effective training of
employees on applicable BMPs and general pollution
prevention strategies and objectives.

Pollution Prevention

▪ Educate employees about pollution prevention measures and goals.
▪ Focus pollution prevention activities on containment of spills and leaks, most of
which may occur during liquid transfers.

Suggested Protocols

General
▪ "Spot clean" leaks and drips routinely. Leaks are not cleaned up until the absorbent is
picked up and disposed of properly.
▪ Label drains within the facility boundary, by paint/stencil (or equivalent), to indicate
whether they flow to an oil/water separator, directly to the sewer, or to a storm drain.
Labels are not necessary for plumbing fixtures directly connected to the sanitary
sewer but may be useful to help eliminate confusion about where the drain leads.
▪ Post signs to remind employees not to top off the fuel tank when filling and signs that
ban employees from changing engine oil or other fluids at that location.
▪ Report leaking vehicles to fleet maintenance.
▪ Ensure the following safeguards are in place:
- Overflow protection devices on tank systems to warn the operator to
automatically shut down transfer pumps when the tank reaches full
capacity.
- Protective guards around tanks and piping to prevent vehicle or forklift
damage.
- Clearly tagging or labeling all valves to reduce human error.
- Automatic shut off for severed fuel hoses.

Objectives
▪ Cover
▪ Contain
▪ Educate
▪ Reduce/Minimize

Targeted Constituents
Sediment
Nutrients
Trash ✓
Metals ✓
Bacteria
Oil and Grease ✓
Organics ✓
Oxygen Demanding
Stormwater Operation and Maintenance Manual Page 25 of 87
Fuel Dispensing Areas
▪ Maintain clean fuel-dispensing areas using dry cleanup methods such as sweeping for
removal of litter and debris, or use of rags and absorbents for leaks and spills. Do not
wash down areas with water.
▪ Fit fuel dispensing nozzles with "hold-open latches" (automatic shutoffs) except
where prohibited by local fire departments.
▪ Post signs at the fuel dispenser or fuel island warning vehicle owners/operators
against "topping off" of vehicle fuel tanks.
▪ Design fueling area to prevent stormwater runoff and spills.
▪ Use secondary containment when transferring fuel from the tank truck to the fuel
tank.

Outdoor Waste Receptacle Area
▪ Spot clean leaks and drips routinely to prevent runoff of spillage.
▪ Minimize the possibility of stormwater pollution from outside waste receptacles by
using an effective combination of the following:
- use only watertight waste receptacle(s) and keep the lid(s) closed, or
- grade and pave the waste receptacle area to prevent run-on of stormwater,
or
- install a roof over the waste receptacle area, or

Inspection
▪ Aboveground Tank Leak and Spill Control:
- Check for external corrosion and structural failure.
- Check for spills and overfills due to operator error.
- Check for failure of piping system.
- Check for leaks or spills during pumping of liquids or gases from truck to
a storage facility or vice versa.
- Inspect tank foundations, connections, coatings, and tank walls and piping
system. Look for corrosion, leaks, cracks, scratches, and other physical
damage that may weaken the tank or container system.
▪ Inspect and clean, if necessary, storm drain inlets and catch basins within the facility
boundary each year.

Training
▪ Train all employees upon hiring and annually thereafter on proper methods for
handling and disposing of waste. Make sure that all employees understand stormwater
discharge prohibitions, wastewater discharge requirements, and these best
management practices.
▪ Train employees on proper fueling and cleanup procedures.

Spill Response and Prevention
▪ Keep your Pollution Prevention Plan (P3) up to date.
▪ Place stockpiles of spill cleanup materials where they are readily accessible.
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▪ Use adsorbent materials on small spills and general cleaning rather than hosing down
the area. Remove the adsorbent materials promptly and dispose properly.
▪ Store portable absorbent booms (long flexible shafts or barriers made of absorbent
material) in unbermed fueling areas.
▪ Report spills promptly.

Stormwater Operation and Maintenance Manual Page 27 of 87
6.4 Vehicle and Equipment Cleaning SSP-4

Description
Wash water from vehicle and equipment cleaning activities
performed outdoors or in areas where wash water flows onto
the ground can contribute toxic hydrocarbons and other
organic compounds, oils and greases, nutrients, phosphates,
heavy metals, and suspended solids to stormwater runoff. Use
of the procedures outlined below can prevent or reduce the
discharge of pollutants to stormwater during vehicle and
equipment cleaning.

Approach
Reduce potential for pollutant discharge through source
control pollution prevention and BMP implementation.
Successful implementation depends on effective training of
employees on applicable BMPs and general pollution
prevention strategies and objectives.

Pollution Prevention

▪ If possible, use the municipal maintained vehicle and equipment wash bays whenever
possible. These locations are better equipped to handle and properly dispose of the
wash waters.
▪ Good housekeeping practices can minimize the risk of contamination from wash
water discharges.

Suggested Protocols

General
▪ Use biodegradable, phosphate-free detergents for washing vehicles as appropriate.
▪ Provide a trash container in wash area.
▪ Map on-site storm drain locations to avoid discharges to the storm drain system.
▪ Emphasize the connection between the storm drain system and runoff and help
reinforce that car washing activities can have an effect on local water quality. This
can be accomplished through storm drain stenciling programs.

Vehicle and Equipment Cleaning
▪ Design wash areas to properly collect and dispose of wash water when engine
cleaning is conducted and when chemical additives, solvents, or degreasers are used.
▪ If washing must occur on-site and outdoor:
- Use designated paved wash areas. Designated wash areas must be well
marked with signs indicating where and how washing must be done. This
Objectives
▪ Cover
▪ Contain
▪ Educate
▪ Reduce/Minimize
▪ Product Substitution

Targeted Constituents
Sediment ✓
Nutrients ✓
Trash ✓
Metals ✓
Bacteria
Oil and Grease ✓
Organics ✓
Oxygen Demanding
Page 28 of 87 Stormwater Operation and Maintenance Manual
area must be covered or bermed to collect the wash water and graded to
direct the wash water to a treatment or disposal facility.
- Oil changes and other engine maintenance cannot be conducted in the
designated washing area. Perform these activities in a place designated for
such activities.
- Cover the wash area when not in use to prevent contact with rain water.
▪ Use hoses with nozzles that automatically turn off when left unattended.

Disposal
▪ Discharge equipment wash water to the sanitary sewer, a holding tank, or a process
treatment system, regardless of the washing method used.

Training
▪ Train employees on proper cleaning and wash water disposal procedures and conduct
“refresher” courses on a regular basis.
▪ Train staff on proper maintenance measures for the wash area.
▪ Train employees on proper spill containment and cleanup. The employee should have
the tools and knowledge to immediately begin cleaning up a spill if one should occur.

Spill Response and Prevention
▪ Refer to SC-2, Spill Prevention, Control and Cleanup.
▪ Keep your Pollution Prevention Plan (P3) up to date, and implement accordingly.
▪ Have spill cleanup materials readily available and in a known location.
▪ Clean up spills immediately and use dry methods if possible.
▪ Properly dispose of spill cleanup material.

Stormwater Operation and Maintenance Manual Page 29 of 87
6.5 Vehicle and Equipment Repair SSP-5

Description
Vehicle or equipment maintenance and repair is potentially a
significant source of stormwater pollution, due to the use of
materials and wastes created that are harmful to humans and the
environment. Engine repair and service (e.g. parts cleaning),
replacement of fluids (e.g. oil change), and outdoor equipment
storage and parking (dripping engines) can impact water quality
if stormwater runoff from areas with these activities occurring on
them becomes polluted by a variety of contaminants.
Implementation of the following activities will prevent or reduce
the discharge of pollutants to stormwater from vehicle and
equipment maintenance and repair activities.

Approach

Pollution Prevention

▪ Keep accurate maintenance logs to evaluate materials use.
▪ Switch to non-toxic chemicals for maintenance when possible.
▪ Choose cleaning agents that can be recycled.
▪ Minimize use of solvents. Clean parts without using solvents whenever possible.
▪ Keep an accurate, up to date inventory of materials.
▪ Recycle used motor oil, diesel oil, and other vehicle fluids and parts whenever
possible.

Suggested Protocols

General
▪ Move maintenance and repair activities indoors whenever feasible.
▪ Store idle equipment containing fluids under cover whenever possible.
▪ Use a vehicle maintenance area designed to prevent stormwater pollution - minimize
contact of stormwater with outside operations through berming and appropriate
drainage routing.
▪ Avoid hosing down your work areas. If work areas are washed, collect and direct
wash water to sanitary sewer.
▪ Clean yard storm drain inlets(s) regularly.
▪ Do not pour materials down drains or hose down work areas; use dry sweeping.
▪ Cover the work area so as to limit exposure to the rain.

Objectives
▪ Cover
▪ Contain
▪ Educate
▪ Reduce/Minimize
▪ Product Substitution

Targeted Constituents
Sediment
Nutrients
Trash
Metals ✓
Bacteria
Oil and Grease ✓
Organics ✓
Oxygen Demanding
Page 30 of 87 Stormwater Operation and Maintenance Manual
Material and Waste Handling
▪ Store materials and wastes under cover whenever possible.
▪ Designate a special area to drain and replace motor oil, coolant, and other fluids. This
area should not have any connections to the storm drain or the sanitary sewer and
should allow for easy clean-up of drips and spills.
▪ Drain all fluids from wrecked vehicles immediately. Ensure that the drain pan or drip
pan is large enough to contain drained fluids (e.g. larger pans are needed to contain
antifreeze, which may gush from some vehicles).
▪ Do not pour liquid waste to floor drains, sinks, outdoor storm drain inlets, or other
storm drains or sewer connections.
▪ Do not dispose of used or leftover cleaning solutions, solvents, and automotive fluids
and oil in the sanitary sewer.
▪ Dispose of all waste materials according to applicable laws and regulations.
▪ Collect leaking or dripping fluids in drip pans or containers. Fluids are easier to
recycle if kept separate.
▪ Promptly transfer used fluids to the proper waste or recycling drums and store in an
appropriately designed area that can contain spills. Don’t leave drip pans or other
open containers lying around.
▪ Do not dispose of oil filters in trash cans or dumpsters, which may leak oil and
contaminate stormwater. Place the oil filter in a funnel over a waste oil recycling
drum to drain excess oil before disposal. Most municipalities prohibit or discourage
disposal of these items in solid waste facilities. Oil filters can also be recycled.
▪ Store cracked and/or dead batteries in a non-leaking covered secondary container and
dispose of properly at recycling or household hazardous waste facilities.

Maintenance and Repair Activities
▪ Provide a designated area for vehicle maintenance.
▪ Keep equipment clean; don’t allow excessive build-up of oil and grease.
▪ If temporary work is being conducted outside: Use a tarp, ground cloth, or drip pans
beneath the vehicle or equipment to capture all spills and drips., The collected drips
and spills must be disposed, reused, or recycled properly.
▪ If possible, perform all vehicle fluid removal or changing inside or under cover to
prevent the run-on of stormwater and the runoff of spills:
- Keep a drip pan under the vehicle while you unclip hoses, unscrew filters,
or remove other parts. Use a drip pan under any vehicle that might leak
while you work on it to keep splatters or drips off the shop floor.
- Promptly transfer used fluids to the proper waste or recycling drums.
Don’t leave drip pans or other open containers lying around.
- Keep drip pans or containers under vehicles or equipment that might drip
during repairs.
- Do not change motor oil or perform equipment maintenance in non-
appropriate areas.
Stormwater Operation and Maintenance Manual Page 31 of 87
▪ If equipment (e.g., radiators, axles) is to be stored outdoors, oil and other fluids
should be drained first. This is also applicable to vehicles being stored and not used
on a regular basis.
▪ Monitor parked vehicles closely for leaks and place pans under any leaks to collect
the fluids for proper disposal or recycling.

Parts Cleaning
▪ Clean vehicle parts without using liquid cleaners wherever possible to reduce waste.
▪ Do all liquid cleaning at a centralized station so the solvents and residues stay in one
area.
▪ Locate drip pans, drain boards, and drying racks to direct drips back into a solvent
sink or fluid holding tank for reuse.

Inspection
▪ Regularly inspect vehicles and equipment for leaks, and repair immediately.
▪ Make sure incoming vehicles are checked for leaking oil and fluids. Apply controls
accordingly.

Training
▪ Train employees in the proper handling and disposal of engine fluids and waste
materials.
▪ Ensure that employees are familiar with the site’s spill control plan and/or proper spill
cleanup procedures (You can use reusable cloth rags to clean up small drips and spills
instead of disposables; these can be washed by a permitted industrial laundry. Do not
clean them at home or at a coin-operated laundry business). The employee should
have the tools and knowledge to immediately begin cleaning up a spill if one should
occur.
▪ Use a training log or similar method to document training.

Spill Response and Prevention
▪ Refer to SC-2 Spill Prevention, Control & Cleanup for more information.
▪ Keep your Pollution Prevention Plan (P3) up to date, and implement accordingly.
▪ Place adequate stockpiles of spill cleanup materials where they are readily accessible.
▪ Clean leaks, drips, and other spills with as little water as possible. Use rags for small
spills, a damp mop for general cleanup, and dry absorbent material for larger spills.
▪ Use the following three-step method for cleaning floors:
- Clean spills with rags or other absorbent materials
- Sweep floor using dry absorbent material
- Mop the floor. Mop water may be discharged to the sanitary sewer via a
toilet or sink.
▪ Remove absorbent materials used for cleaning small spills promptly and properly.
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▪ Do not saturate rags or absorbent material to eliminate need for disposal of spilled
material as hazardous waste.
6.6 Outdoor Loading/Unloading SSP-6

Description
The loading/unloading of materials usually takes place outside
on docks or terminals; therefore, materials spilled, leaked, or lost
during loading/unloading may collect in the soil or on other
surfaces and have the potential to be carried away by stormwater
runoff or when the area is cleaned. Additionally, rainfall may
wash pollutants from machinery used to unload or move
materials. Loading and unloading of material may include
package products, barrels, and bulk products. Implementation of
the following protocols will prevent or reduce the discharge of
pollutants to stormwater from outdoor loading/unloading of
materials.

Approach

Pollution Prevention

▪ Keep accurate maintenance logs to evaluate materials removed and improvements
made.
▪ Park tank trucks or delivery vehicles in designated areas so that spills or leaks can be
contained.
▪ Limit exposure of materials with the potential to contaminate stormwater.
▪ Prevent stormwater run-on.
▪ Regularly check equipment for leaks.
▪ When loading and unloading an attendant should be present at all times.

Suggested Protocols

Loading and Unloading – General Guidelines
▪ Do not conduct loading and unloading during wet weather, whenever possible.
▪ Cover designated loading/unloading areas to reduce exposure of materials to rain.
▪ If feasible, load and unload all materials and equipment in covered areas such as
building overhangs at loading docks.
▪ Load/unload only at designated loading areas.
▪ Pave loading areas with concrete instead of asphalt.
▪ Grade and/or berm he loading/ unloading area to a drain that is connected to a dead-
end sump.

Objectives
▪ Cover
▪ Contain
▪ Educate
▪ Reduce/Minimize
▪ Product Substitution

Targeted Constituents
Sediment ✓
Nutrients ✓
Trash
Metals ✓
Bacteria
Oil and Grease ✓
Organics ✓
Oxygen Demanding ✓
Stormwater Operation and Maintenance Manual Page 33 of 87
Inspection
▪ Check loading and unloading equipment regularly for leaks, including valves, pumps,
flanges and connections.
▪ Look for dust or fumes during loading or unloading operations.

Training
▪ Train employees (e.g. fork lift operators) on proper spill containment and cleanup.
▪ Employees trained in spill containment and cleanup should be present during the
loading/unloading.
▪ Train employees in proper handling techniques during liquid transfers to avoid spills.
▪ Make sure forklift operators are properly trained on loading and unloading
procedures.

Spill Response and Prevention
▪ Refer to SC-2, Spill Prevention, Control & Cleanup
▪ Keep your Pollution Prevention Plan (P3) up to date, and implement accordingly.
▪ Have spill cleanup materials readily available and in a known location.
▪ Cleanup spills immediately and use dry methods if possible.
▪ Properly dispose of spill cleanup material.

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6.7 Outdoor Container Storage SSP-7

Description
Accidental releases of materials from above ground liquid storage
tanks, drums, and dumpsters present the potential for contaminating
stormwater with many different pollutants. Tanks may store many
potential stormwater runoff pollutants, such as gasoline, aviation
gas, diesel fuel, ammonia, solvents, syrups, etc. Materials spilled,
leaked, or lost from storage tanks may accumulate in soils or on
other surfaces and be carried away by rainfall runoff. These source
controls apply to containers located outside of a building used to
temporarily store liquid materials and include installing safeguards
against accidental releases, installing secondary containment,
conducting regular inspections, and training employees in standard
operating procedures and spill cleanup techniques.

Approach

Pollution Prevention

▪ Educate employees about pollution prevention measures and goals.
▪ Keep an accurate, up to date inventory of the materials delivered and stored on-site.
Re-evaluate inventory needs and consider purchasing alternative products. Properly
dispose of outdated products.
▪ Try to keep chemicals in their original containers, and keep them well labeled.

Suggested Protocols

General
▪ Refer to SC-6 Outdoor Loading/Unloading for more detailed BMP information
▪ Employ safeguards against accidental releases:
- Provide overflow protection devices to warn operator or automatic
shutdown transfer pumps.
- Provide protection guards (bollards) around tanks and piping to prevent
vehicle or forklift damage, and
- Provide clear tagging or labeling, and restricting access to valves to reduce
human error.
▪ Berm or surround tank or container with secondary containment system using dikes,
liners, vaults, or double walled tanks.

Storage Area
▪ Provide storage tank piping located below product level with a shut-off valve at the
tank; ideally this valve should be an automatic shear valve with the shut-off located
inside the tank.
Objectives
▪ Cover
▪ Contain
▪ Educate
▪ Reduce/Minimize
▪ Product Substitution

Targeted Constituents
Sediment
Nutrients ✓
Trash
Metals ✓
Bacteria
Oil and Grease ✓
Organics ✓
Oxygen Demanding ✓
Stormwater Operation and Maintenance Manual Page 35 of 87
▪ Provide barriers such as posts or guard rails, where tanks are exposed, to prevent
collision damage with vehicles.
▪ Provide secure storage to prevent vandalism.
▪ Place tight-fitting lids on all containers.
▪ Enclose or cover the containers where they are stored.
▪ Raise the containers off the ground by use of a spill pallet or similar method, with
provisions for spill control and secondary containment.
▪ Contain the material in such a manner that if the container leaks or spills, the contents
will not discharge, flow, or be washed into the storm drainage system, surface waters
or groundwater.
▪ Place drip pans or absorbent materials beneath all mounted container taps, and at all
potential drip and spill locations during filling and unloading of containers. Drip pans
must be cleaned periodically, and all collected liquids and soiled absorbent materials
must be reused/recycled or properly disposed.
▪ Ensure that any underground or aboveground storage tanks shall be designed and
managed in accordance with applicable regulations, be identified as a potential
pollution source, have secondary containment.
▪ Rainfall collected in secondary containment system must not contain pollutants for
discharge to storm drain system.

Container Management
▪ Keep containers in good condition without corrosion or leaky seams.
▪ Place containers in a lean-to structure or otherwise covered to keep rainfall from
reaching the drums.
▪ Replace containers if they are deteriorating to the point where leakage is occurring.
Keep all containers undercover to prevent the entry of stormwater. Employees should
be made aware of the importance of keeping the containers free from leaks.
▪ Keep waste container drums in an area such as a service bay. All drums should be
inside and stored in a structure, she or walk-in container.

Storage of Hazardous Materials
▪ Storage of reactive, ignitable, or flammable liquids must comply with the fire and
hazardous waste codes.
▪ Place containers in a designated area that is paved, free of cracks and gaps, and
impervious in order to contain leaks and spills. The area should also be covered.
▪ Structures that store hazardous materials should have proper labeling on side of
structure indicating types of hazardous materials in the building.
▪ All storage drums should have hazardous material labels.

Inspection
▪ Provide regular inspections:
- Inspect storage areas regularly for leaks or spills.
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- Conduct routine inspections and check for external corrosion of material
containers. Also check for structural failure, spills and overfills due to
operator error, failure of piping system.
- Check for leaks or spills during pumping of liquids or gases from truck to
a storage facility or vice versa.
- Visually inspect new tank or container installations for loose fittings, poor
welding, and improper or poorly fitted gaskets.
- Inspect tank foundations, connections, coatings, and tank walls and piping
system. Look for corrosion, leaks, cracks, scratches, and other physical
damage that may weaken the tank or container system.
- Replace containers that are leaking, corroded, or otherwise deteriorating
with ones in good condition. If the liquid chemicals are corrosive,
containers made of compatible materials must be used instead of metal
drums.
- Label new or secondary containers with the product name and hazards.

Training
▪ Train employees (e.g. fork lift operators) in proper spill containment and cleanup.
The employee should have the tools and knowledge to immediately begin cleaning up
a spill if one should occur.
▪ Train employees in proper storage measures.
▪ Use a training log or similar method to document training.

Spill Response and Prevention
▪ Keep your Pollution Prevention Plan (P3) up to date, and implement accordingly.
▪ Have an emergency plan, equipment and trained personnel ready at all times to deal
immediately with major spills.
▪ Collect all spilled liquids and properly dispose of them.
▪ Employees trained in emergency spill cleanup procedures should be present when
dangerous waste, liquid chemicals, or other wastes are delivered.
▪ Operator errors can be prevented by using engineering safe guards and thus reducing
accidental releases of pollutant.
▪ Store and maintain appropriate spill cleanup materials in a location known to all near
the tank storage area.
▪ See Aboveground Tank Leak and Spill Control section of the Spill Prevention,
Control & Cleanup fact sheet (SC-2) for additional information.

Stormwater Operation and Maintenance Manual Page 37 of 87
6.8 Outdoor Equipment Maintenance SSP-8

Description
Outside process equipment operations and maintenance
can contaminate stormwater runoff. Activities, such as
grinding, painting, coating, sanding, degreasing or parts
cleaning, landfills and waste piles, solid waste treatment
and disposal, are examples of process operations that can
lead to contamination of stormwater runoff. Source
controls for outdoor process equipment operations and
maintenance include reducing the amount of waste
created, enclosing or covering all or some of the
equipment, installing secondary containment, and
training employees.

Approach

Pollution Prevention

▪ Perform the activity during dry periods.
▪ Use non-toxic chemicals for maintenance and minimize or eliminate the use of
solvents.

Suggested Protocols

▪ Consider enclosing the activity in a building and connecting the floor drains to the
sanitary sewer and/or oil and water separator.
▪ Minimize contact of stormwater with outside process equipment operations through
berming and drainage routing (run-on prevention). If allowed, connect process
equipment area to public sewer.
▪ Dry clean the work area regularly.

Training
▪ Train employees to perform the activity during dry periods only and to use less or
non-toxic materials.
▪ Train employee and contractors in proper techniques for spill containment and
cleanup. The employee should have the tools and knowledge to immediately begin
cleaning up a spill if one should occur.

Spill Response and Prevention
▪ Refer to SC-2, Spill Prevention, Control & Cleanup
▪ Keep your Pollution Prevention Plan (P3) up-date, and implement accordingly.
▪ Have spill cleanup materials readily available and in a known location.
Objectives
▪ Cover
▪ Contain
▪ Educate
▪ Reduce/Minimize
▪ Product Substitution

Targeted Constituents
Sediment ✓
Nutrients
Trash ✓
Metals ✓
Bacteria
Oil and Grease ✓
Organics ✓
Oxygen Demanding
Page 38 of 87 Stormwater Operation and Maintenance Manual
▪ Cleanup spills immediately and use dry methods if possible.
▪ Properly dispose of spill cleanup material.

Stormwater Operation and Maintenance Manual Page 39 of 87
6.9 Outdoor Storage of Raw Materials SSP-9

Description
Raw materials, by-products, finished products, containers,
and material storage areas exposed to rain and/or runoff can
pollute stormwater. Stormwater can become contaminated
when materials wash off or dissolve into water or are added
to runoff by spills and leaks. Improper storage of these
materials can result in accidental spills and the release of
materials. To prevent or reduce the discharge of pollutants to
stormwater from material delivery and storage, pollution
prevention and source control measures, such as minimizing
the storage of hazardous materials on-site, enclosing or
covering materials, storing materials in a designated area,
installing secondary containment, conducting regular
inspections, preventing stormwater run-on and runoff, and
training employees must be implemented.

Approach

Pollution Prevention

▪ Employee education is paramount for successful BMP implementation.
▪ Minimize inventory of raw materials.
▪ Keep an accurate, up to date inventory of the materials delivered and stored on-site.
▪ Try to keep chemicals in their original containers, and keep them well labeled.

Suggested Protocols

General
▪ Store all materials inside. If this is not feasible, then all outside storage areas should
be covered with a roof, and bermed, or enclosed to prevent stormwater contact.
▪ Cover and contain the stockpiles of raw materials to prevent stormwater from running
into the covered piles. The covers must be in place at all times when work with the
stockpiles is not occurring (applicable to small stockpiles only).
▪ If the stockpiles are so large that they cannot feasibly be covered and contained,
implement erosion control practices at the perimeter of your site and at any catch
basins to prevent erosion of the stockpiled material off site.
▪ Keep liquids in a designated area on a paved impervious surface within a secondary
containment.
▪ Keep outdoor storage containers in good condition.
▪ Keep storage areas clean and dry.
Objectives
▪ Cover
▪ Contain
▪ Educate
▪ Reduce/Minimize

Targeted Constituents
Sediment ✓
Nutrients ✓
Trash ✓
Metals
Bacteria
Oil and Grease ✓
Organics ✓
Oxygen Demanding ✓
Page 40 of 87 Stormwater Operation and Maintenance Manual
▪ Secure drums stored in an area where unauthorized persons may gain access to
prevent accidental spillage, pilferage, or any unauthorized use.

Raw Material Containment
▪ Do not store chemicals, drums, or bagged materials directly on the ground. Place
these items in secondary containers if applicable.
▪ Prevent the run-on of uncontaminated stormwater from adjacent areas as well as
runoff of stormwater from the stockpile areas, by placing a curb along the perimeter
of the area. The area inside the curb should slope to a drain.
▪ Tanks should be bermed or surrounded by a secondary containment system.

Inspection
▪ Conduct regular inspections of storage areas so that leaks and spills are detected as
soon as possible.
▪ Conduct routine inspections and check for external corrosion of material containers.
Also check for structural failure, spills and overfills due to operator error, failure of
piping system.
▪ Check for leaks or spills during pumping of liquids or gases from truck or rail car to a
storage facility or vice versa.
▪ Visually inspect new tank or container installations for loose fittings, poor welding,
and improper or poorly fitted gaskets.
▪ Inspect tank foundations, connections, coatings, and tank walls and piping system.
Look for corrosion, leaks, cracks, scratches, and other physical damage that may
weaken the tank or container system.

Training
▪ Employees should be well trained in proper material storage.
▪ Train employees and contractors in proper techniques for spill containment and
cleanup.

Spill Response and Prevention
▪ Refer to SC-2, Spill Prevention, Control & Cleanup
▪ Keep your Pollution Prevention Plan (P3) up to date, and implement accordingly.
▪ Have spill cleanup materials readily available and in a known location.
▪ Cleanup spills immediately and use dry methods if possible.
▪ Properly dispose of spill cleanup material.

Stormwater Operation and Maintenance Manual Page 41 of 87
6.10 Waste Handling & Disposal (solid waste) SSP-10

Description
Improper storage and handling of solid wastes can allow
toxic compounds, oils and greases, heavy metals,
nutrients, suspended solids, and other pollutants to enter
stormwater runoff. The discharge of pollutants to
stormwater from waste handling and disposal can be
prevented and reduced by tracking waste generation,
storage, and disposal; reducing waste generation and
disposal through source reduction, re-use, and recycling;
and preventing run-on and runoff.

Approach

Pollution Prevention

▪ Reduction in the amount of waste generated can be accomplished using the following
source controls such as:
- Production planning and sequencing
- Process or equipment modification
- Raw material substitution or elimination
- Loss prevention and housekeeping
- Waste segregation and separation
- Close loop recycling
▪ Recycle materials whenever possible.

Suggested Protocols

General
▪ Cover storage containers with leak proof lids or some other means. If waste is not in
containers, cover all waste piles (plastic tarps are acceptable coverage) and prevent
stormwater run-on and runoff with a berm. The waste containers or piles must be
covered except when in use.
▪ Use drip pans or absorbent materials whenever grease containers are emptied by
vacuum trucks or other means. Grease cannot be left on the ground. Collected grease
must be properly disposed of as garbage.
▪ Check storage containers weekly for leaks and to ensure that lids are on tightly.
Replace any that are leaking, corroded, or otherwise deteriorating.
▪ Sweep and clean the storage area regularly. If it is paved, do not hose down the area
to a storm drain.
▪ Dispose of rinse and wash water from cleaning waste containers into a sanitary sewer
if allowed by the local sewer authority. Do not discharge wash water to the street or
storm drain.
Objectives
▪ Cover
▪ Contain
▪ Educate
▪ Reduce/Minimize
▪ Product Substitution

Targeted Constituents
Sediment ✓
Nutrients ✓
Trash ✓
Metals ✓
Bacteria ✓
Oil and Grease ✓
Organics ✓
Oxygen Demanding ✓
Page 42 of 87 Stormwater Operation and Maintenance Manual
▪ Transfer waste from damaged containers into safe containers.
▪ Take special care when loading or unloading wastes to minimize losses. Loading
systems can be used to minimize spills and fugitive emission losses such as dust or
mist. Vacuum transfer systems can minimize waste loss.

Controlling Litter
▪ Provide a sufficient number of litter receptacles for the facility.
▪ Clean out and cover litter receptacles frequently to prevent spillage.

Waste Collection
▪ Keep waste collection areas clean.
▪ Inspect solid waste containers for structural damage or leaks regularly. Repair or
replace damaged containers as necessary.
▪ Secure solid waste containers; containers must be closed tightly when not in use.
▪ Place waste containers under cover if possible.
▪ Do not fill waste containers with washout water or any other liquid.
▪ Ensure that only appropriate solid wastes are added to the solid waste container.
Certain wastes such as hazardous wastes, appliances, fluorescent lamps, pesticides,
etc. may not be disposed of in solid waste containers (see chemical/ hazardous waste
collection section below).
▪ Do not mix wastes; this can cause chemical reactions, make recycling impossible, and
complicate disposal.

Good Housekeeping
▪ Use the entire product before disposing of the container.
▪ Keep the waste management areas clean at all times by sweeping and cleaning up
spills immediately.
▪ Use dry methods when possible (e.g. sweeping, use of absorbents) when cleaning
around restaurant/food handling dumpster areas. If water must be used after
sweeping/using absorbents, collect water and discharge through grease interceptor to
the sewer.
▪ Stencil storm drains on the facility’s property with prohibitive message regarding
waste disposal.

Chemical/Hazardous Wastes
▪ Select designated hazardous waste collection areas on-site.
▪ Store hazardous materials and wastes in covered containers protected from
vandalism, and in compliance with fire and hazardous waste codes.
▪ Place hazardous waste containers in secondary containment.
▪ Make sure that hazardous waste is collected, removed, and disposed of only at
authorized disposal areas.

Stormwater Operation and Maintenance Manual Page 43 of 87
Run-on/Runoff Prevention
▪ Prevent stormwater run-on from entering the waste management area by enclosing
the area or building a berm around the area.
▪ Prevent the waste materials from directly contacting rain.
▪ Cover the area with a permanent roof if feasible.
▪ Cover dumpsters to prevent rain from washing waste out of holes or cracks in the
bottom of the dumpster.
▪ Move the activity indoor after ensuring all safety concerns such as fire hazard and
ventilation are addressed.

Inspection
▪ Inspect and replace faulty pumps or hoses regularly to minimize the potential of
releases and spills.
▪ Check waste management areas for leaking containers or spills.
▪ Repair leaking equipment including valves, lines, seals, or pumps promptly.

Training
▪ Train staff pollution prevention measures and proper disposal methods.
▪ Train employees and contractors proper spill containment and cleanup. The employee
should have the tools and knowledge to immediately begin cleaning up a spill if one
should occur.
▪ Train employees in proper hazardous waste management.

Spill Response and Prevention
▪ Refer to SC-2, Spill Prevention, Control & Cleanup
▪ Keep your Pollution Prevention Plan (P3) up to date, and implement accordingly.
▪ Have spill cleanup materials readily available and in a known location.
▪ Cleanup spills immediately and use dry methods if possible.
▪ Properly dispose of spill cleanup material.
▪ Vehicles transporting waste should have spill prevention equipment that can prevent
spills during transport. The spill prevention equipment includes:
- Vehicles equipped with baffles for liquid waste
- Trucks with sealed gates and spill guards for solid waste

Page 44 of 87 Stormwater Operation and Maintenance Manual
6.11 Building & Grounds Maintenance SSP-11

Description
Stormwater runoff from building and grounds
maintenance activities can be contaminated with toxic
hydrocarbons in solvents, fertilizers and pesticides,
suspended solids, heavy metals, and abnormal pH.
Utilizing the following protocols will prevent or reduce
the discharge of pollutants to stormwater from building
and grounds maintenance activities by washing and
cleaning up with as little water as possible, following
good landscape management practices, preventing and
cleaning up spills immediately, keeping debris from
entering the storm drains, and maintaining the
stormwater collection system.

Approach

Pollution Prevention

▪ Switch to non-toxic chemicals for maintenance when possible.
▪ Choose cleaning agents that can be recycled.
▪ Encourage proper lawn management and landscaping, including use of native
vegetation.
▪ Encourage use of Integrated Pest Management techniques for pest control.
▪ Encourage proper onsite recycling of yard trimmings.
▪ Recycle residual paints, solvents, lumber, and other material as much as possible.

Suggested Protocols

Pressure Washing of Buildings, Rooftops, and Other Large Objects
▪ In situations where soaps or detergents are used and the surrounding area is paved,
pressure washers must use a waste water collection device that enables collection of
wash water and associated solids. A sump pump, wet vacuum or similarly effective
device must be used to collect the runoff and loose materials. The collected runoff
and solids must be disposed of properly.
▪ If soaps or detergents are not used, and the surrounding area is paved, wash water
runoff does not have to be collected but must be screened. Pressure washers must use
filter fabric or some other type of screen on the ground and/or in the catch basin to
trap the particles in wash water runoff.
▪ If you are pressure washing on a grassed area (with or without soap), runoff must be
dispersed as sheet flow as much as possible, rather than as a concentrated stream. The
Objectives
▪ Cover
▪ Contain
▪ Educate
▪ Reduce/Minimize
▪ Product Substitution

Targeted Constituents
Sediment ✓
Nutrients ✓
Trash ✓
Metals ✓
Bacteria ✓
Oil and Grease ✓
Organics ✓
Oxygen Demanding ✓
Stormwater Operation and Maintenance Manual Page 45 of 87
wash runoff must remain on the grass and not drain to pavement. Ensure that this
practice does not kill grass.

Landscaping Activities
▪ Do not apply any chemicals (insecticide, herbicide, or fertilizer) directly to surface
waters, unless the application is approved and permitted by the state.
▪ Dispose of grass clippings, leaves, sticks, or other collected vegetation as garbage, or
by composting. Do not dispose of collected vegetation into waterways or storm
drainage systems.
▪ Use mulch or other erosion control measures on exposed soils.
▪ Check irrigation schedules so pesticides will not be washed away and to minimize
non-stormwater discharge.

Building Repair, Remodeling, and Construction
▪ Do not dump any toxic substance or liquid waste on the pavement, the ground, or
toward a storm drain.
▪ Use ground or drop cloths underneath outdoor painting, scraping, and sandblasting
work, and properly dispose of collected material daily.
▪ Use a ground cloth or oversized tub for activities such as paint mixing and tool
cleaning.
▪ Clean paint brushes and tools covered with water-based paints in sinks connected to
sanitary sewers or in portable containers that can be dumped into a sanitary sewer
drain. Brushes and tools covered with non-water-based paints, finishes, or other
materials must be cleaned in a manner that enables collection of used solvents (e.g.,
paint thinner, turpentine, etc.) for recycling or proper disposal.
▪ Use a storm drain cover, filter fabric, or similarly effective runoff control mechanism
if dust, grit, wash water, or other pollutants may escape the work area and enter a
catch basin. The containment device(s) must be in place at the beginning of the work
day, and accumulated dirty runoff and solids must be collected and disposed of before
removing the containment device(s) at the end of the work day.
▪ If you need to de-water an excavation site, you may need to filter the water before
discharging to a catch basin or off-site. In which case you should direct the water
through hay bales and filter fabric or use other sediment filters or traps.
▪ Store toxic material under cover with secondary containment during precipitation
events and when not in use. A cover would include tarps or other temporary cover
material.

Mowing, Trimming, and Planting
▪ Dispose of leaves, sticks, or other collected vegetation as garbage, by composting or
at a permitted landfill. Do not dispose of collected vegetation into waterways or storm
drainage systems.
▪ Use mulch or other erosion control measures when soils are exposed.
▪ Place temporarily stockpiled material away from watercourses and drain inlets, and
berm or cover stockpiles to prevent material releases to the storm drain system.
Page 46 of 87 Stormwater Operation and Maintenance Manual
▪ Consider an alternative approach when bailing out muddy water; do not put it in the
storm drain, pour over landscaped areas.
▪ Use hand or mechanical weeding where practical.

Fertilizer and Pesticide Management
▪ Follow all federal, state, and local laws and regulations governing the use, storage,
and disposal of fertilizers and pesticides and training of applicators and pest control
advisors.
▪ Follow manufacturers’ recommendations and label directions. Pesticides must never
be applied if precipitation is occurring or predicted. Do not apply insecticides within
100 feet of surface waters such as lakes, ponds, wetlands, and streams.
▪ Use less toxic pesticides that will do the job, whenever possible. Avoid use of copper-
based pesticides if possible.
▪ Do not use pesticides if rain is expected.
▪ Do not mix or prepare pesticides for application near storm drains.
▪ Use the minimum amount needed for the job.
▪ Calibrate fertilizer distributors to avoid excessive application.
▪ Employ techniques to minimize off-target application (e.g. spray drift) of pesticides,
including consideration of alternative application techniques.
▪ Apply pesticides only when wind speeds are low.
▪ Work fertilizers into the soil rather than dumping or broadcasting them onto the
surface.
▪ Irrigate slowly to prevent runoff and then only as much as is needed.
▪ Clean pavement and sidewalk if fertilizer is spilled on these surfaces before applying
irrigation water.
▪ Dispose of empty pesticide containers according to the instructions on the container
label.
▪ Use up the pesticides. Rinse containers, and use rinse water as product. Dispose of
unused pesticide as hazardous waste.

Inspection
▪ Inspect irrigation system periodically to ensure that the right amount of water is being
applied and that excessive runoff is not occurring. Minimize excess watering, and
repair leaks in the irrigation system as soon as they are observed.

Training
▪ Educate and train employees on use of pesticides and in pesticide application
techniques to prevent pollution.
▪ Train employees and contractors in proper techniques for spill containment and
cleanup.
▪ Be sure the frequencies of training takes into account the complexity of the operations
and the nature of the staff.

Stormwater Operation and Maintenance Manual Page 47 of 87
Spill Response and Prevention
▪ Refer to SC-2, Spill Prevention, Control & Cleanup
▪ Keep your Pollution Prevention Plan (P3) up to date, and implement accordingly.
▪ Have spill cleanup materials readily available and in a known location.
▪ Cleanup spills immediately and use dry methods if possible.
▪ Properly dispose of spill cleanup material.

Page 48 of 87 Stormwater Operation and Maintenance Manual
6.12 Parking/Storage Area Maintenance SSP-12

Description
Parking lots and storage areas can contribute a number of
substances, such as trash, suspended solids,
hydrocarbons, oil and grease, and heavy metals that can
enter receiving waters through stormwater runoff or non-
stormwater discharges. The following protocols are
intended to prevent or reduce the discharge of pollutants
from parking/storage areas and include using good
housekeeping practices, following appropriate cleaning
BMPs, and training employees.

Approach

Pollution Prevention

▪ Encourage alternative designs and maintenance strategies for impervious parking lots.
▪ Keep accurate maintenance logs to evaluate BMP implementation.

Suggested Protocols

General
▪ Keep the parking and storage areas clean and orderly. Remove debris in a timely
fashion.
▪ Arrange rooftop drains to prevent drainage directly onto paved surfaces.

Controlling Litter
▪ Provide an adequate number of litter receptacles.
▪ Clean out and cover litter receptacles frequently to prevent spillage.
▪ Routinely sweep, shovel and dispose of litter in the trash.

Surface cleaning
▪ Use dry cleaning methods (e.g. sweeping or vacuuming) to prevent the discharge of
pollutants into the stormwater conveyance system.
▪ Establish frequency of public parking lot sweeping based on usage and field
observations of waste accumulation.
▪ Sweep all parking lots at least once before the onset of the wet season.
▪ If water is used follow the procedures below:
- Block the storm drain or contain runoff.
- Wash water should be collected and pumped to the sanitary sewer or
discharged to a pervious surface, do not allow wash water to enter storm
drains.
Objectives
▪ Cover
▪ Contain
▪ Educate
▪ Reduce/Minimize
▪ Product Substitution

Targeted Constituents
Sediment ✓
Nutrients ✓
Trash ✓
Metals ✓
Bacteria ✓
Oil and Grease ✓
Organics ✓
Oxygen Demanding ✓
Stormwater Operation and Maintenance Manual Page 49 of 87
- Dispose of parking lot sweeping debris and dirt at a landfill.
▪ When cleaning heavy oily deposits:
- Use absorbent materials on oily spots prior to sweeping or washing.
- Dispose of used absorbents appropriately.

Surface Repair
▪ Apply concrete, asphalt, and seal coat during dry weather to prevent contamination
from contacting stormwater runoff.
▪ Cover and seal nearby storm drain inlets (with waterproof material or mesh) and
manholes before applying seal coat, slurry seal, etc., where applicable. Leave covers
in place until job is complete and until all water from emulsified oil sealants has
drained or evaporated. Clean any debris from these covered manholes and drains for
proper disposal.
▪ Use only as much water as necessary for dust control, to avoid runoff.
▪ Catch drips from paving equipment that is not in use with pans or absorbent material
placed under the machines. Dispose of collected material and absorbents properly.

Inspection
▪ Have designated personnel conduct inspections of the parking facilities and
stormwater conveyance systems associated with them on a regular basis.
▪ Inspect cleaning equipment/sweepers for leaks on a regular basis.

Training
▪ Provide regular training to field employees and/or contractors regarding cleaning of
paved areas and proper operation of equipment.
▪ Train employees and contractors in proper techniques for spill containment and
cleanup.

Spill Response and Prevention
▪ Refer to SC-2, Spill Prevention, Control & Cleanup
▪ Keep your Pollution Prevention Plan (P3) up to date, and implement accordingly.
▪ Have spill cleanup materials readily available and in a known location.
▪ Cleanup spills immediately and use dry methods if possible.

Page 50 of 87 Stormwater Operation and Maintenance Manual
6.13 Housekeeping Practices SSP-13

Description
Promote efficient and safe housekeeping practices
(storage, use, and cleanup) when handling potentially
harmful materials such as fertilizers, pesticides, cleaning
solutions, paint products, automotive products, and
swimming pool chemicals. Related information is
provided in BMP fact sheets SC-2 Spill Prevention,
Control & Cleanup and SC-21 Waste Handling &
Disposal.

Approach

Pollution Prevention

▪ Purchase only the amount of material that will be
needed for foreseeable use. In most cases this will result in cost savings in both
purchasing and disposal. See SC-14 Safer Alternative Products for additional
information.
▪ Be aware of new products that may do the same job with less environmental risk and
for less or the equivalent cost. Total cost must be used here; this includes purchase
price, transportation costs, storage costs, use related costs, clean-up costs and disposal
costs.

Suggested Protocols

General
▪ Keep work sites clean and orderly. Remove debris in a timely fashion. Sweep the
area.
▪ Dispose of wash water, sweepings, and sediments, properly.
▪ Recycle or dispose of fluids properly.

Training
▪ Train all employees, management, office, yard, manufacturing, field and clerical in
BMPs and pollution prevention and make them accountable.
▪ Train municipal employees who handle potentially harmful materials in good
housekeeping practices.
▪ Train personnel who use pesticides in the proper use of the pesticides.
▪ Train employees and contractors in proper techniques for spill containment and
cleanup. The employee should have the tools and knowledge to immediately begin
cleaning up a spill if one should occur.

Objectives
▪ Cover
▪ Contain
▪ Educate
▪ Reduce/Minimize
▪ Product Substitution

Targeted Constituents
Sediment ✓
Nutrients ✓
Trash ✓
Metals ✓
Bacteria ✓
Oil and Grease ✓
Organics ✓
Oxygen Demanding ✓
Stormwater Operation and Maintenance Manual Page 51 of 87
Spill Response and Prevention
▪ Refer to SC-2, Spill Prevention, Control & Cleanup
▪ Keep your Pollution Prevention Plan (P3) up to date, and implement accordingly.
▪ Have spill cleanup materials readily available and in a known location.
▪ Cleanup spills immediately and use dry methods if possible.
▪ Properly dispose of spill cleanup material.

Page 52 of 87 Stormwater Operation and Maintenance Manual
6.14 Safer Alternative Products SSP-14

Descriptions
Promote the use of less harmful products. Alternatives
exist for most product classes including chemical
fertilizers, pesticides, cleaning solutions, janitorial
chemicals, automotive and paint products, and
consumables (batteries, fluorescent lamps).

Approach
Develop a comprehensive program based on:

▪ The “Precautionary Principle,” which is an alternative
to the "Risk Assessment" model that says it's
acceptable to use a potentially harmful product until
physical evidence of its harmful effects are established
and deemed too costly from an environmental or public health perspective. For
instance, a risk assessment approach might say it's acceptable to use a pesticide until
there is direct proof of an environmental impact. The Precautionary Principle
approach is used to evaluate whether a given product is safe, whether it is really
necessary, and whether alternative products would perform just as well.
▪ Integrated Pest Management (IPM) or Less-Toxic Pesticide Program, which uses a
pest management approach that minimizes the use of toxic chemicals and gets rid of
pests by methods that pose a lower risk to employees, the public, and the
environment.
▪ Energy Efficiency Program including no-cost and low-cost energy conservation and
efficiency actions that can reduce both energy consumption and electricity bills, along
with long-term energy efficiency investments.
Consider the following mechanisms for developing and implementing a comprehensive
program:
▪ Policies
▪ Procedures
- Standard operating procedures (SOPs)
- Purchasing guidelines and procedures
- Bid packages (services and supplies)
▪ Materials
- Preferred or approved product and supplier lists
- Product and supplier evaluation criteria
- Training sessions and manuals
- Fact sheets for employees
Training
▪ Employees who handle potentially harmful materials in the use of safer alternatives.
▪ Purchasing departments should be encouraged to procure less hazardous materials
and products that contain little or no harmful substances.
Objectives
▪ Educate
▪ Reduce/Minimize
▪ Product Substitution

Targeted Constituents
Sediment
Nutrients ✓
Trash
Metals ✓
Bacteria
Oil and Grease ✓
Organics ✓
Oxygen Demanding
Stormwater Operation and Maintenance Manual Page 53 of 87
6.15 Road and Street Maintenance SSP-15

Description
Streets, roads, and highways are significant sources of
pollutants in stormwater discharges, and operation and
maintenance (O&M) practices, if not conducted properly,
can contribute to the problem. Stormwater pollution from
roadway and bridge maintenance should be addressed on a
site-specific basis. Use of the procedures outlined below,
that address street sweeping, and repair, bridge and
structure maintenance, and unpaved roads will reduce
pollutants in stormwater.

Approach

Pollution Prevention

▪ Use the least toxic materials available (e.g. water based paints, gels or sprays for
graffiti removal).
▪ Recycle paint and other materials whenever possible.
▪ Enlist the help of citizens to keep yard waste, used oil, and other wastes out of the
gutter.

Suggested Protocols

Street Sweeping and Cleaning
▪ Maintain a consistent sweeping schedule.
▪ Perform street cleaning during dry weather if possible.
▪ Avoid wet cleaning or flushing of street, and utilize dry methods where possible.
▪ Consider increasing sweeping frequency based on factors such as traffic volume, land
use, field observations of sediment and trash accumulation, proximity to water
courses, etc. For example:
- Increase the sweeping frequency for streets with high pollutant loadings,
especially in high traffic and industrial areas.
- Increase the sweeping frequency just before the wet season to remove
sediments accumulated during the summer.
- Increase the sweeping frequency for streets in special problem areas such
as special events, high litter or erosion zones.
▪ Maintain cleaning equipment in good working condition and purchase replacement
equipment as needed. Old sweepers should be replaced with new technologically
advanced sweepers that maximize pollutant removal.
▪ Operate sweepers at manufacturer requested optimal speed levels to increase
effectiveness.
▪ To increase sweeping effectiveness consider the following:
Objectives
▪ Cover
▪ Contain
▪ Educate
▪ Reduce/Minimize
▪ Product Substitution

Targeted Constituents
Sediment ✓
Nutrients
Trash ✓
Metals ✓
Bacteria
Oil and Grease ✓
Organics ✓
Oxygen Demanding ✓
Page 54 of 87 Stormwater Operation and Maintenance Manual
- Institute a parking policy to restrict parking in problematic areas during
periods of street sweeping.
- Post permanent street sweeping signs in problematic areas; use temporary
signs if installation of permanent signs is not possible.
- Develop and distribute flyers notifying residents of street sweeping
schedules.
▪ Regularly inspect vehicles and equipment for leaks, and repair immediately.
▪ If available use vacuum or regenerative air sweepers in the high sediment and trash
areas (typically industrial/commercial).
▪ Keep accurate logs of the number of curb-miles swept.
▪ Dispose of street sweeping debris and dirt at a landfill.
▪ Do not store swept material along the side of the street or near a storm drain inlet.

Street Repair and Maintenance

Pavement marking
▪ Schedule pavement marking activities for dry weather.
▪ Develop paint handling procedures for proper use, storage, and disposal of paints.
▪ Transfer and load paint and hot thermoplastic away from storm drain inlets.
▪ Provide drop cloths and drip pans in paint mixing areas.
▪ Properly maintain application equipment.
▪ Paints containing lead or tributyltin are considered a hazardous waste and must be
disposed of properly.
▪ Use water based paints whenever possible. If using water based paints, clean the
application equipment in a sink that is connected to the sanitary sewer.
▪ Properly store leftover paints if they are to be kept for the next job or dispose of
properly.

Concrete installation and repair
▪ Schedule asphalt and concrete activities for dry weather.
▪ Take measures to protect any nearby storm drain inlets and adjacent watercourses,
prior to breaking up asphalt or concrete (e.g. place sand bags around inlets or work
areas).
▪ Limit the amount of fresh concrete or cement mortar mixed, mix only what is needed
for the job.
▪ Store concrete materials under cover, away from drainage areas. Secure bags of
cement after they are open. Be sure to keep wind-blown cement powder away from
streets, gutters, storm drains, rainfall, and runoff.
▪ Return leftover materials to the transit mixer. Dispose of small amounts of hardened
excess concrete, grout, and mortar in the trash.
▪ Do not wash sweepings from exposed aggregate concrete into the street or storm
drain.
▪ Collect and return sweepings to aggregate base stockpile, or dispose in the trash.
Stormwater Operation and Maintenance Manual Page 55 of 87
▪ When making saw cuts in pavement, use as little water as possible and perform
during dry weather. Cover each storm drain inlet completely with filter fabric or
plastic during the sawing operation and contain the slurry by placing straw bales,
sandbags, or gravel dams around the inlets. After the liquid drains or evaporates,
shovel or vacuum the slurry residue from the pavement or gutter and remove from
site. Alternatively, a small onsite vacuum may be used to pick up the slurry as this
will prohibit slurry from reaching storm drain inlets.
▪ Wash concrete trucks off site or in designated areas on site designed to preclude
discharge of wash water to drainage system.

Patching, resurfacing, and surface sealing
▪ Schedule patching, resurfacing and surface sealing for dry weather.
▪ Stockpile materials away from streets, gutter areas, storm drain inlets or watercourses.
▪ During wet weather, cover stockpiles with plastic tarps or berm around them if
necessary to prevent transport of materials in runoff.
▪ Where applicable, cover and seal nearby storm drain inlets (with waterproof material
or mesh) and maintenance holes before applying seal coat, slurry seal, etc. Leave
covers in place until job is complete and until all water from emulsified oil sealants
has drained or evaporated. Clean any debris from covered maintenance holes and
storm drain inlets when the job is complete.
▪ Prevent excess material from exposed aggregate concrete or similar treatments from
entering streets or storm drain inlets. Designate an area for clean-up and proper
disposal of excess materials.
▪ Use only as much water as necessary for dust control, to avoid runoff.
▪ Sweep, never hose down streets to clean up tracked dirt. Use a street sweeper or
vacuum truck. Do not dump vacuumed liquid in storm drains.
▪ Catch drips from paving equipment that is not in use with pans or absorbent material
placed under the machines. Dispose of collected material and absorbents properly.

Equipment cleaning maintenance and storage
▪ Inspect equipment daily and repair any leaks. Place drip pans or absorbent materials
under heavy equipment when not in use.
▪ If refueling or repairing vehicles and equipment must be done onsite, use a location
away from storm drain inlets and watercourses.
▪ Clean equipment including sprayers, sprayer paint supply lines, patch and paving
equipment, and mud jacking equipment at the end of each day. Clean in a sink or
other area (e.g. vehicle wash area) that is connected to the sanitary sewer.

Bridge and Structure Maintenance

Paint and Paint Removal
▪ Transport paint and materials to and from job sites in containers with secure lids and
tied down to the transport vehicle.
▪ Do not transfer or load paint near storm drain inlets or watercourses.
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▪ Test and inspect spray equipment prior to starting to paint. Tighten all hoses and
connections and do not overfill paint container.
▪ Plug nearby storm drain inlets prior to starting painting where there is significant risk
of a spill reaching storm drains. Remove plugs when job is completed.
▪ If sand blasting is used to remove paint, cover nearby storm drain inlets prior to
starting work.
▪ Perform work on a maintenance traveler or platform, or use suspended netting or
tarps to capture paint, rust, paint removing agents, or other materials, to prevent
discharge of materials to surface waters if the bridge crosses a watercourse. If
sanding, use a sander with a vacuum filter bag.
▪ Capture all clean-up water and dispose of properly.
▪ Recycle paint when possible (e.g. paint may be used for graffiti removal activities).
Dispose of unused paint at an appropriate household hazardous waste facility.

Graffiti Removal
▪ Schedule graffiti removal activities for dry weather.
▪ Protect nearby storm drain inlets prior to removing graffiti from walls, signs,
sidewalks, or other structures needing graffiti abatement. Clean up afterwards by
sweeping or vacuuming thoroughly, and/or by using absorbent and properly disposing
of the absorbent.
▪ When graffiti is removed by painting over, implement the procedures under Painting
and Paint Removal above.
▪ Direct runoff from sand blasting and high pressure washing (with no cleaning agents)
into a landscaped or dirt area. If such an area is not available, filter runoff through an
appropriate filtering device (e.g. filter fabric) to keep sand, particles, and debris out of
storm drains.
▪ If a graffiti abatement method generates wash water containing a cleaning compound
(such as high pressure washing with a cleaning compound), plug nearby storm drains
and vacuum/pump wash water to the sanitary sewer.
▪ Consider using a waterless and non-toxic chemical cleaning method for graffiti
removal (e.g. gels or spray compounds).

Repair Work
▪ Prevent concrete, steel, wood, metal parts, tools, or other work materials from
entering storm drains or watercourses.
▪ Thoroughly clean up the job site when the repair work is completed.
▪ When cleaning guardrails or fences follow the appropriate surface cleaning methods
(depending on the type of surface) outlined in SC-71 Plaza & Sidewalk Cleaning fact
sheet.
▪ If painting is conducted, follow the painting and paint removal procedures above.
▪ If graffiti removal is conducted, follow the graffiti removal procedures above.
▪ Recycle materials whenever possible.

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Unpaved Roads and Trails
▪ Stabilize exposed soil areas to prevent soil from eroding during rain events. This is
particularly important on steep slopes.
▪ Dust suppressants should be used to minimize airborne transfer of fine aggregates
into the air.
▪ Quality aggregates should be used to minimize transfer of fine aggregates onto paved
surfaces.
▪ For roadside areas with exposed soils, the most cost-effective choice is to vegetate the
area, preferably with a mulch or binder that will hold the soils in place while the
vegetation is establishing. Native vegetation should be used if possible.
▪ If vegetation cannot be established immediately, apply temporary erosion control
mats/blankets; a comma straw, or gravel as appropriate.
▪ If sediment is already eroded and mobilized in roadside areas, temporary controls
should be installed. These may include: sediment control fences, fabric-covered
triangular dikes, gravel-filled burlap bags, biobags, or hay bales staked in place.

Non-Stormwater Discharges
Field crews should be aware of non-stormwater discharges as part of their ongoing street
maintenance efforts.
▪ Refer to SC-1 Non-Stormwater Discharges.
▪ Identify location, time and estimated quantity of discharges.
▪ Notify appropriate personnel.

Training
▪ Train employees regarding proper street sweeping operation and street repair and
maintenance.
▪ Instruct employees and subcontractors to ensure that measures to reduce the
stormwater impacts of roadway/bridge maintenance are being followed.
▪ Use a training log or similar method to document training.
▪ Train employees on proper spill containment and clean up, and in identifying non-
stormwater discharges.

Spill Response and Prevention
▪ Refer to SC-2, Spill Prevention, Control & Cleanup
▪ Keep your Pollution Prevention Plan (P3) up to date, and implement accordingly.
▪ Have spill cleanup materials readily available and in a known location.
▪ Cleanup spills immediately and use dry methods if possible.

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6.16 Salt Application and Storage SSP-16

Description
The Application and storage of deicing materials, most
commonly salts such as sodium chloride, can lead to water
quality problems for surrounding areas. Salts, gravel, sand,
and other materials are applied to highways and roads to
reduce the amount of ice during winter storm events. Salts
lower the melting point of ice, allowing roadways to stay
free of ice buildup during cold winters. Sand and gravel
increase traction on the road, making travel safer.

Approach
During road salt application, certain best management
practices can produce significant environmental benefits.
The amount of road salt applied should be regulated to
prevent over-salting of motorways and increasing runoff
concentrations. The amount of salt applied should be varied to reflect site-specific
characteristics, such as road width and design, traffic concentration, and proximity to
surface waters. Calibration devices for spreaders in trucks aid maintenance workers in
the proper application of road salts. Alternative materials, such as sand or gravel, should
be used in especially sensitive areas

Pollution Prevention

▪ Use the minimum amount of salt needed to get the job done.
▪ Establish “low salt” near sensitive environments. Salt can impact water supply wells.
▪ Establish "low salt and/or sand areas" near sensitive environments. Sand may be
detrimental in areas sensitive to sedimentation, such as streams, and salt can impact
water supply wells.
▪ Remove snow manually from driveways and sidewalks.
▪ Limit toxic metals in specifications for deicers.
▪ Cleanup road grit as soon as possible.
▪ Consider pre-wetting of salt or use brine solution as a way to reduce and better
control salt applications.
▪ Consider road temperatures when determining volume of salt to apply.
▪ Control the rate of spreading by equipping trucks with ground-speed sensors.
▪ Many of the problems associated with contamination of local waterways stem from
the improper storage of deicing materials. Salts are very soluble when they come into
contact with storm water. They can migrate into ground water used for public water
supplies and also contaminate surface waters.
▪ Facilities should be located on flat sites away from surface water and on impervious
surfaces that are easily protected from overland runoff.
▪ Salt should be stored under cover to prevent a loss due to runoff.
Objectives
▪ Cover
▪ Contain
▪ Educate
▪ Reduce/Minimize
▪ Product Substitution

Targeted Constituents
Sediment ✓
Nutrients ✓
Trash
Metals ✓
Bacteria
Oil and Grease
Organics ✓
Oxygen Demanding ✓
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▪ Contain wash water from trucks used for salting and sanding in a holding tank for
disposal or discharge into sanitary sewers.
▪ Place salt piles in areas not subject to flooding.
▪ Contain stormwater runoff from areas where salt is stored by using buffers to diffuse
runoff before entering waterbodies.
▪ Cleanup “track out” after storm events.

Suggested Protocols

▪ Sensitive areas, such as public water supplies, lakes and ponds, should be identified
and made known to salt applicators. Consider de-icing alternatives in sensitive areas.
▪ Ground-speed controllers should be used for all spreaders.
▪ Give salt time to work; time plowing operations to allow maximum melting by salt,
before snow is plowed off the highway.
▪ Know when to plow and reapply salt. The need for another salt application can be
determined by watching melting snow kicked out behind vehicle tires. If the slush is
soft and fans out like water, the salt is still working. Once the slush begins to stiffen
and is thrown directly to the rear of vehicle tires, it is time to plow.
▪ For lesser traveled roads, consider applying salt in a windrow in a four to eight foot
strip along the centerline of a two lane road. Less salt is wasted with this pattern and
quickly gives vehicles clear pavement under at least two wheels. Traffic will soon
move some salt off the centerline and the salt brine will move toward both shoulders
for added melting across the entire road width.
▪ Determine levels of service for all roads in a service area. Salt application rates and
frequency should be based on traffic volume, road grade and curvature, intersections,
and weather conditions. Sand or sand/salt mix should be used based on the level of
service requirements.

Training
▪ Train drivers to improve loading of materials, application techniques and reduce
losses.
▪ Train drivers to report areas of “over salting” to allow possible cleanup and to reduce
salt runoff.

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6.17 Plaza and Sidewalk Cleaning SSP-17

Description
Pollutants on sidewalks and other pedestrian traffic areas
and plazas are typically due to littering and vehicle use.
This fact sheet describes good housekeeping practices that
can be incorporated into the municipality’s existing
cleaning and maintenance program.

Approach

Pollution Prevention

▪ Use dry cleaning methods whenever practical for
surface cleaning activities.
▪ Use the least toxic materials available (e.g. water
based paints, gels or sprays for graffiti removal).

Suggested Protocols

Surface Cleaning
▪ Regularly broom (dry) sweep sidewalk, plaza and parking lot areas to minimize
cleaning with water.
▪ Dry cleanup first (sweep, collect, and dispose of debris and trash) when cleaning
sidewalks or plazas, then wash with or without soap.
▪ Block the storm drain or contain runoff when cleaning with water. Discharge wash
water to landscaping or collect water and pump to a tank or discharge to sanitary
sewer if allowed.
▪ Block the storm drain or contain runoff when washing parking areas, driveways or
drive-thrus.
▪ Use absorbents to pick up oil; then dry sweep. Clean with or without soap.
▪ Collect water and pump to a tank or discharge to sanitary sewer if allowed. Street
Repair and Maintenance.

Graffiti Removal
▪ Avoid graffiti abatement activities during rain events.
▪ Implement the procedures under Painting and Paint Removal in SC-15 Roads, Streets,
and Highway Operation and Maintenance fact sheet when graffiti is removed by
painting over.
▪ Direct runoff from sand blasting and high pressure washing (with no cleaning agents)
into a dirt or landscaped area after treating with an appropriate filtering device.
▪ Plug nearby storm drain inlets and vacuum/pump wash water to the sanitary sewer if
authorized to do so if a graffiti abatement method generates wash water containing a
cleaning compound (such as high pressure washing with a cleaning compound).
Objectives
▪ Cover
▪ Contain
▪ Educate
▪ Reduce/Minimize
▪ Product Substitution

Targeted Constituents
Sediment ✓
Nutrients
Trash ✓
Metals ✓
Bacteria
Oil and Grease ✓
Organics ✓
Oxygen Demanding ✓
Stormwater Operation and Maintenance Manual Page 61 of 87

Surface Removal and Repair
▪ Schedule surface removal activities for dry weather if possible.
▪ Avoid creating excess dust when breaking asphalt or concrete.
▪ Take measures to protect nearby storm drain inlets prior to breaking up asphalt or
concrete (e.g. place hay bales or sand bags around inlets). Clean afterwards by
sweeping up as much material as possible.
▪ Designate an area for clean-up and proper disposal of excess materials.
▪ Remove and recycle as much of the broken pavement as possible to avoid contact
with rainfall and stormwater runoff.
▪ When making saw cuts in pavement, use as little water as possible. Cover each storm
drain inlet completely with filter fabric during the sawing operation and contain the
slurry by placing straw bales, sandbags, or gravel dams around the inlets. After the
liquid drains or evaporates, shovel or vacuum the slurry residue from the pavement or
gutter and remove from site.
▪ Always dry sweep first to clean up tracked dirt. Use a street sweeper or vacuum truck.
Do not dump vacuumed liquid in storm drains. Once dry sweeping is complete, the
area may be hosed down if needed. Wash water should be directed to landscaping or
collected and pumped to the sanitary sewer if allowed.

Concrete Installation and Repair
▪ Schedule asphalt and concrete activities for dry weather.
▪ Take measures to protect any nearby storm drain inlets and adjacent watercourses,
prior to breaking up asphalt or concrete (e.g. place sand bags around inlets or work
areas).
▪ Limit the amount of fresh concrete or cement mortar mixed, mix only what is needed
for the job.
▪ Store concrete materials under cover, away from drainage areas. Secure bags of
cement after they are open. Be sure to keep wind-blown cement powder away from
streets, gutters, storm drains, rainfall, and runoff.
▪ Return leftover materials to the transit mixer. Dispose of small amounts of hardened
excess concrete, grout, and mortar in the trash.
▪ Do not wash sweepings from exposed aggregate concrete into the street or storm
drain. Collect and return sweepings to aggregate base stockpile, or dispose in the
trash.
▪ Protect applications of fresh concrete from rainfall and runoff until the material has
dried.
▪ Do not allow excess concrete to be dumped onsite, except in designated areas.
▪ Wash concrete trucks off site or in designated areas on site designed to preclude
discharge of wash water to drainage system.

Controlling Litter
▪ Provide litter receptacles in busy, high pedestrian traffic areas of the community, at
recreational facilities, and at community events.
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▪ Cover litter receptacles and clean out frequently to prevent leaking/spillage or
overflow.
▪ Clean parking lots on a regular basis with a street sweeper.

Training
▪ Provide regular training to field employees and/or contractors regarding surface
cleaning and proper operation of equipment.
▪ Train employee and contractors in proper techniques for spill containment and
cleanup.
▪ Use a training log or similar method to document training.

Spill Response and Prevention
▪ Refer to SC-2, Spill Prevention, Control & Cleanup
▪ Have spill cleanup materials readily available and in a known location.
▪ Cleanup spills immediately and use dry methods if possible.
▪ Properly dispose of spill cleanup material.

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6.18 Fountain & Pool Maintenance SSP-18

Description
The primary pollutant of concern in municipal
swimming pool water is chlorine or chloramine used
as a disinfectant. This water, if discharged to the storm
drain system, can be toxic to aquatic life. In lakes,
lagoons, and fountains, the pollutants of concern are
chemical algaecides that are added to control algae
mainly for aesthetic reasons (visual and odor).
Following the procedures noted in this fact sheet will
reduce the pollutants in this discharge.

Approach

Pollution Prevention

▪ Prevent algae problems with regular cleaning, consistent adequate chlorine levels, and
well-maintained water filtration and circulation systems.
▪ Manage pH and water hardness to minimize corrosion of copper pipes.

Suggested Protocols

Pools and Fountains
▪ Do not use copper-based algaecides. Control algae with chlorine or other alternatives,
such as sodium bromide.
▪ Do not discharge water to a street or storm drain when draining pools or fountains;
discharge to the sanitary sewer if permitted to do so. If water is dechlorinated with a
neutralizing chemical or by allowing chlorine to dissipate for a few days (do not use
the facility during this time), the water may be recycled/reused by draining it
gradually onto a landscaped area. Water must be tested prior to discharge to ensure
that chlorine is not present.
▪ Prevent backflow if draining a pool to the sanitary sewer by maintaining an “air gap”
between the discharge line and the sewer line (do not seal the connection between the
hose and sewer line). Be sure to call the local wastewater treatment plant for further
guidance on flow rate restrictions, backflow prevention, and handling special cleaning
waste (such as acid wash). Discharge flows should be kept to the low levels typically
possible through a garden hose. Higher flow rates may be prohibited by local
ordinance.
▪ Provide drip pans or buckets beneath drain pipe connections to catch leaks. This will
be especially pertinent if pool or spa water that has not been dechlorinated is pumped
through piping to a discharge location.
▪ Never clean a filter in the street or near a storm drain.
▪ Rinse cartridge filters onto a dirt area, and spade filter residue into soil.
Objectives
▪ Contain
▪ Educate
▪ Reduce/Minimize
▪ Product Substitution

Targeted Constituents
Sediment ✓
Nutrients ✓
Trash ✓
Metals
Bacteria ✓
Oil and Grease
Organics ✓
Oxygen Demanding ✓
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▪ If there is not a suitable dirt or grass area to discharge filter backwash or rinse water
to the sanitary sewer.

Ponds
▪ Reduce fertilizer use in areas around the water body. High nitrogen fertilizers can
produce excess growth requiring more frequent mowing or trimming, and may
contribute to excessive algae growth.
▪ To control bacteria, discourage the public from feeding birds and fish (i.e. place signs
that prohibit feeding of waterfowl).
▪ Educate the public on algae and that no controls are necessary for certain types of
algae that are beneficial to the water body.
▪ Control erosion by doing the following:
- Maintain vegetative cover on banks to prevent soil erosion. Apply mulch
or leave clippings to serve as additional cover for soil stabilization and to
reduce the velocity of stormwater runoff.
- Areas should be designed (sloped) to prevent runoff and erosion and to
promote better irrigation practices.
- Provide energy dissipaters (e.g. riprap) along banks to minimize potential
for erosion.
- Confine excavated materials to surfaces away from lakes. Material must
be covered if rain is expected.
▪ Conduct inspections to detect illegal dumping of clippings/cuttings in or near a lake.
Materials found should be picked up and properly disposed of.
▪ Avoid landscape wastes in and around lakes should be avoided by either using
bagging equipment or by manually picking up the material. Collect trash and debris
from within water bodies where feasible.
▪ Provide and maintain trash receptacles near recreational water bodies to hold refuse
generated by the public.
▪ Increase trash collection during peak visitation months (generally June, July and
August).

Training
▪ Train maintenance personnel to test chlorine levels and to apply neutralizing
chemicals.
▪ Train personnel regarding proper maintenance of pools, ponds and lakes.

Spill Response and Prevention
▪ Refer to SC-2, Spill Prevention, Control & Cleanup
▪ Have spill cleanup materials readily available and in a known location.
▪ Cleanup spills immediately and use dry methods if possible.
▪ Properly dispose of spill cleanup material.

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6.19 Landscape Maintenance SSP-19

Description
Landscape maintenance activities include vegetation
removal; herbicide and insecticide application;
fertilizer application; watering; and other gardening
and lawn care practices. Vegetation control typically
involves a combination of chemical (herbicide)
application and mechanical methods. All of these
maintenance practices have the potential to contribute
pollutants to the storm drain system. The major
objectives of this BMP are to minimize the discharge
of pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers to the storm
drain system and receiving waters; prevent the
disposal of landscape waste into the storm drain
system by collecting and properly disposing of
clippings and cuttings, and educating employees and
the public.

Approach

Pollution Prevention

▪ Implement an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program. IPM is a sustainable
approach to managing pests by combining biological, cultural, physical, and chemical
tools.
▪ Choose low water using flowers, trees, shrubs, and groundcover.
▪ Consider alternative landscaping techniques such as nature-scaping (planting native
species) and xeriscaping (using drought tolerate plants).
▪ Conduct appropriate maintenance (i.e. properly timed fertilizing, weeding, pest
control, and pruning) to help preserve the landscapes water efficiency.
▪ Consider grass cycling (grass cycling is the natural recycling of grass by leaving the
clippings on the lawn when mowing. Grass clippings decompose quickly and release
valuable nutrients back into the lawn).

Suggested Protocols

Mowing, Trimming, and Weeding
▪ Whenever possible use mechanical methods of vegetation removal (e.g mowing with
tractor-type or push mowers, hand cutting with gas or electric powered weed
trimmers) rather than applying herbicides. Use hand weeding where practical.
▪ Avoid loosening the soil when conducting mechanical or manual weed control, this
could lead to erosion. Use mulch or other erosion control measures when soils are
exposed.
Objectives
▪ Contain
▪ Educate
▪ Reduce/Minimize
▪ Product Substitution

Targeted Constituents
Sediment ✓
Nutrients ✓
Trash ✓
Metals
Bacteria
Oil and Grease
Organics
Oxygen Demanding ✓
Page 66 of 87 Stormwater Operation and Maintenance Manual
▪ Performing mowing at optimal times. Mowing should not be performed if significant
rain events are predicted.
▪ Mulching mowers may be recommended for certain flat areas. Other techniques may
be employed to minimize mowing such as selective vegetative planting using low
maintenance grasses and shrubs.
▪ Collect lawn and garden clippings, pruning waste, tree trimmings, and weeds. Chip if
necessary and compost (see waste management section of this fact sheet).
▪ Place temporarily stockpiled material away from watercourses, and berm or cover
stockpiles to prevent material releases to storm drains.

Planting
▪ Determine existing native vegetation features (location, species, size, function, and
importance) and consider the feasibility of protecting them. Consider elements such
as their effect on drainage and erosion, hardiness, maintenance requirements, and
possible conflicts between preserving vegetation and the resulting maintenance needs.
▪ Retain and/or plant selected native vegetation whose features are determined to be
beneficial, where feasible. Native vegetation usually requires less maintenance (e.g.,
irrigation, fertilizer) than planting new vegetation.
▪ Consider using low water use groundcovers when planting or replanting.

Waste Management
▪ Compost leaves, sticks, or other collected vegetation or dispose of at a permitted
landfill. Do not dispose of collected vegetation into waterways or storm drainage
systems.
▪ Place temporarily stockpiled material away from watercourses and storm drain inlets,
and berm or cover stockpiles to prevent material releases to the storm drain system.
▪ Reduce the use of high nitrogen fertilizers that produce excess growth requiring more
frequent mowing or trimming.
▪ Avoid landscape wastes in and around storm drain inlets by either using bagging
equipment or by manually picking up the material.

Irrigation
▪ Where practical, use automatic timers to minimize runoff.
▪ Use popup sprinkler heads in areas with a lot of activity or where there is a chance the
pipes may be broken. Consider the use of mechanisms that reduce water flow to
sprinkler heads if broken.
▪ Ensure that there is no runoff from the landscaped area(s) if re-claimed water is used
for irrigation.
▪ If bailing of muddy water is required (e.g. when repairing a water line leak), do not
put it in the storm drain; pour over landscaped areas.
▪ Irrigate slowly to prevent runoff and then only irrigate as much as is needed.
▪ Apply water at rates that do not exceed the infiltration rate of the soil.

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Fertilizer and Pesticide Management
▪ Utilize a comprehensive management system that incorporates IPM techniques. There
are many methods and types of IPM, including the following:
- Mulching can be used to prevent weeds where turf is absent, fencing
installed to keep rodents out, and netting used to keep birds and insects
away from leaves and fruit.
- Visible insects can be removed by hand (with gloves or tweezers) and
placed in soapy water or vegetable oil. Alternatively, insects can be
sprayed off the plant with water or in some cases vacuumed off of larger
plants.
- Store-bought traps, such as species-specific, pheromone-based traps or
colored sticky cards, can be used.
- Slugs can be trapped in small cups filled with beer that are set in the
ground so the slugs can get in easily.
- In cases where microscopic parasites, such as bacteria and fungi, are
causing damage to plants, the affected plant material can be removed and
disposed of (pruning equipment should be disinfected with bleach to
prevent spreading the disease organism).
- Small mammals and birds can be excluded using fences, netting, and tree
trunk guards.
- Beneficial organisms, such as bats, birds, green lacewings, ladybugs,
praying mantis, ground beetles, parasitic nematodes, trichogramma wasps,
seed head weevils, and spiders that prey on detrimental pest species can be
promoted.

▪ Follow all federal, state, and local laws and regulations governing the use, storage,
and disposal of fertilizers and pesticides and training of applicators and pest control
advisors.
▪ Use pesticides only if there is an actual pest problem (not on a regular preventative
schedule).
▪ Do not use pesticides if rain is expected. Apply pesticides only when wind speeds are
low (less than 5 mph).
▪ Do not mix or prepare pesticides for application near storm drains.
▪ Prepare the minimum amount of pesticide needed for the job and use the lowest rate
that will effectively control the pest.
▪ Employ techniques to minimize off-target application (e.g. spray drift) of pesticides,
including consideration of alternative application techniques.
▪ Fertilizers should be worked into the soil rather than dumped or broadcast onto the
surface.
▪ Calibrate fertilizer and pesticide application equipment to avoid excessive
application.
▪ Periodically test soils for determining proper fertilizer use.
▪ Sweep pavement and sidewalk if fertilizer is spilled on these surfaces before applying
irrigation water.
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▪ Purchase only the amount of pesticide that you can reasonably use in a given time
period (month or year depending on the product).
▪ Triple rinse containers, and use rinse water as product. Dispose of unused pesticide as
hazardous waste.
▪ Dispose of empty pesticide containers according to the instructions on the container
label.

Inspection
▪ Inspect irrigation system periodically to ensure that the right amount of water is being
applied and that excessive runoff is not occurring. Minimize excess watering, and
repair leaks in the irrigation system as soon as they are observed.
▪ Inspect pesticide/fertilizer equipment and transportation vehicles daily.

Training
▪ Educate and train employees on use of pesticides and in pesticide application
techniques to prevent pollution. Pesticide application must be under the supervision
of a qualified pesticide applicator.
▪ Train/encourage municipal maintenance crews to use IPM techniques for managing
public green areas.
▪ Annually train employees within departments responsible for pesticide application on
the appropriate portions of the agency’s IPM Policy, SOPs, and BMPs, and the latest
IPM techniques.
▪ Employees who are not authorized and trained to apply pesticides should be
periodically (at least annually) informed that they cannot use over-the-counter
pesticides in or around the workplace.
▪ Use a training log or similar method to document training.

Spill Response and Prevention
▪ Refer to SC-2, Spill Prevention, Control & Cleanup
▪ Have spill cleanup materials readily available and in a known in location.
▪ Cleanup spills immediately and use dry methods if possible.
▪ Properly dispose of spill cleanup material.

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6.20 Drainage System Maintenance SSP-20

Description
As a consequence of its function, the stormwater
conveyance system collects and transports urban runoff
that may contain certain pollutants. Maintaining catch
basins, stormwater inlets, and other stormwater
conveyance structures on a regular basis will remove
pollutants, prevent clogging of the downstream
conveyance system, restore catch basins’ sediment
trapping capacity, and ensure the system functions
properly hydraulically to avoid flooding.

Approach

Suggested Protocols

Catch Basins/Inlet Structures
▪ Municipal staff should regularly inspect facilities to ensure the following:
- Immediate repair of any deterioration threatening structural integrity.
- Catch basins should be cleaned as frequently as needed to prevent
clogging.
- Stenciling of catch basins and inlets (see SC-21 Waste Handling and
Disposal).
▪ Clean catch basins, storm drain inlets, and other conveyance structures in high
pollutant load areas just before the wet season to remove sediments and debris
accumulated during the summer.
▪ Conduct inspections more frequently during the wet season for problem areas where
sediment or trash accumulates more often. Clean and repair as needed.
▪ Keep accurate logs of the number of catch basins cleaned.
▪ Record the amount of waste collected.
▪ Store wastes collected from cleaning activities of the drainage system in appropriate
containers or temporary storage sites in a manner that prevents discharge to the storm
drain.

Storm Drain Conveyance System
▪ Locate reaches of storm drain with deposit problems and develop a flushing schedule
that keeps the pipe clear of excessive buildup.

Illicit Connections and Discharges
▪ During routine maintenance of conveyance system and drainage structures field staff
should look for evidence of illegal discharges or illicit connections:
- Is there evidence of spills such as paints, discoloring, etc.
- Are there any odors associated with the drainage system
- Record locations of apparent illegal discharges/illicit connections
Objectives
▪ Contain
▪ Educate
▪ Reduce/Minimize

Targeted Constituents
Sediment ✓
Nutrients ✓
Trash ✓
Metals ✓
Bacteria ✓
Oil and Grease ✓
Organics ✓
Oxygen Demanding ✓
Page 70 of 87 Stormwater Operation and Maintenance Manual
- Track flows back to potential dischargers and conduct aboveground
inspections. This can be done through visual inspection of up gradient
manholes or alternate techniques including zinc chloride smoke testing,
fluorometric dye testing, physical inspection testing, or television camera
inspection.
- Once the origin of flow is established, require illicit discharger to
eliminate the discharge.
▪ Stencil storm drains, where applicable, to prevent illegal disposal of pollutants. Storm
drain inlets should have messages such as “Dump No Waste Drains to Stream”
stenciled next to them to warn against ignorant or intentional dumping of pollutants
into the storm drainage system.
▪ Refer to fact sheet SC-1 Non-Stormwater Discharges.

Illegal Dumping
▪ Regularly inspect and clean up hot spots and other storm drainage areas where illegal
dumping and disposal occurs.
▪ Establish a system for tracking incidents. The system should be designed to identify
the following:
- Illegal dumping hot spots
- Types and quantities (in some cases) of wastes
- Patterns in time of occurrence (time of day/night, month, or year)
- Mode of dumping (abandoned containers, “midnight dumping” from
moving vehicles, direct dumping of materials, accidents/spills)
- Responsible parties
▪ Refer to fact sheet SC-1 Non-Stormwater Discharges.

Training
▪ Train crews in proper maintenance activities, including record keeping and disposal.
▪ Only properly trained individuals are allowed to handle hazardous materials/wastes.
▪ Train municipal employees from all departments (public works, water and sewer
plants maintenance, street cleaning, recreation and parks, water and sewer
maintenance) to recognize and report illegal dumping.
▪ Train municipal employees and educate businesses, contractors, and the general
public in proper and consistent methods for disposal.
▪ Train municipal staff regarding non-stormwater discharges (See SC-1 Non-
Stormwater Discharges).

Spill Response and Prevention
▪ Refer to SC-2, Prevention, Control & Cleanup
▪ Have spill cleanup materials readily available and in a known location.
▪ Cleanup spills immediately and use dry methods if possible.
▪ Properly dispose of spill cleanup material.
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6.21 Waste Handling and Disposal SSP-21

Description
It is important to control litter to eliminate trash and
other materials in stormwater runoff. Waste reduction
is a major component of waste management and
should be encouraged through training and public
outreach. Management of waste once it is collected
may involve reuse, recycling, or proper disposal.

Approach

Pollution Prevention

▪ Reuse products when possible.
▪ Encourage recycling programs with recycling
bins, used oil collection, etc.

Suggested Protocols

Solid Waste Collection
▪ Implement procedures, where applicable, to collect, transport, and dispose of solid
waste at appropriate disposal facilities in accordance with applicable federal, state,
and local laws and regulations.
▪ Include properly designed trash storage areas. If feasible provide cover over trash
storage areas.
▪ Regularly inspect solid waste containers for structural damage. Repair or replace
damaged containers as necessary.
▪ Secure solid waste containers; containers must be closed tightly when not in use.
▪ Do not fill waste containers with washout water or any other liquid.
▪ Ensure that only appropriate solid wastes are added to the solid waste container.
Certain wastes such as hazardous wastes, appliances, fluorescent lamps, pesticides,
etc. may not be disposed of in solid waste containers (see chemical/ hazardous waste
collection section below).
▪ Do not mix wastes; this can cause chemical reactions, make recycling impossible, and
complicate disposal.
▪ Refer to SC-10 Waste Handling and Disposal (solid waste) for more information
regarding solid waste facilities.

Waste Reduction and Recycling
▪ Recycle wastes whenever possible. Many types of waste can be recycled; recycling
options for each waste type is limited. All gasoline, antifreeze, waste oil, and lead-
acid batteries can be recycled. Latex and oil-based paint can be reused, as well as
Objectives
▪ Cover
▪ Contain
▪ Educate
▪ Reduce/Minimize

Targeted Constituents
Sediment ✓
Nutrients ✓
Trash ✓
Metals ✓
Bacteria ✓
Oil and Grease ✓
Organics ✓
Oxygen Demanding ✓
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recycled. Materials that cannot be reused or recycled should either be incinerated or
disposed of at a properly permitted landfill.
▪ Recycling is always preferable to disposal of unwanted materials.
▪ Recycling bins for glass, metal, newspaper, plastic bottles and other recyclable
household solid wastes should be provided at public facilities and/or for residential
curbside collection.

Controlling Litter
▪ Provide litter receptacles in busy, high pedestrian traffic areas of the community, at
recreational facilities, and at community events.
▪ Clean out and cover litter receptacles frequently to prevent spillage.

Illegal Dumping
Substances illegally dumped on streets and into the storm drain system and creeks
include paints, used oil and other automotive fluids, construction debris, chemicals, fresh
concrete, leaves, grass clipping, and pet wastes.
▪ Post “No Dumping” signs with a phone number for reporting dumping and disposal.
Signs should also indicate fines and penalties for illegal dumping
▪ Landscaping and beautification efforts of hot spots might also discourage future
dumping.
▪ See SC-20 Drainage System Maintenance, and SC-1 Non-Stormwater Discharges.

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6.22 Water & Sewer Utility Maintenance SSP-22

Description
Although the operation and maintenance of public
utilities are not considered chronic sources of
stormwater pollution, some activities and accidents
can result in the discharge of pollutants that can pose
a threat to both human health and the quality of
receiving waters if they enter the storm drain system.
Sewage incident response and investigation may
involve a coordinated effort between staff from a
number of different departments/agencies.

Approach

Pollution Prevention

Inspect potential non-stormwater discharge flow paths and clear/cleanup any debris or
pollutants found (i.e. remove trash, leaves, sediment, and wipe up liquids, including oil
spills).

Suggested Protocols

Water Line Maintenance and Cleaning
Procedures can be employed to reduce pollutants from discharges associated with water
utility operation and maintenance activities. Planned discharges may include fire hydrant
testing, flushing water supply mains after new construction, flushing lines due to
complaints of taste and odor, dewatering mains for maintenance work. Unplanned
discharges from treated, recycled water, raw water, and groundwater systems operation
and maintenance activities can occur from water main breaks, sheared fire hydrants,
equipment malfunction, and operator error.

1. Planned discharges
▪ Identify a suitable discharge option in the following order of preference:
- Apply to the land.
- Reuse water for dust suppression, irrigation, or construction compaction.
- Discharge to the storm drain system using applicable pollution control
measures. (Only available to clean water discharges such as water main/
water storage tank/water hydrant flushing).
▪ If water is discharged to a storm drain, control measures must be put in place to
control potential pollutants (i.e. sediment, chlorine, etc.). Examples of some storm
drain protection options include:
- Silt fence – appropriate where the inlet drains a relatively flat area.
- Gravel and wire mesh sediment filter – Appropriate where concentrated
flows are expected.
Objectives
▪ Cover
▪ Contain
▪ Educate
▪ Reduce/Minimize

Targeted Constituents
Sediment ✓
Nutrients ✓
Trash
Metals
Bacteria ✓
Oil and Grease ✓
Organics ✓
Oxygen Demanding ✓
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- Wooden weir and fabric – use at curb inlets where a compact installation
is desired.
- Other commercially available device for controlling sediment.
▪ Prior to discharge, inspect discharge flow path and clear/cleanup any debris or
pollutants found (i.e. remove trash, leaves, sediment, and wipe up liquids, including
oil spills).
▪ General Design considerations for inlet protection devices include the following:
- The device should be constructed such that cleaning and disposal of
trapped sediment is made easy, while minimizing interference with
discharge activities.
- Devices should be constructed so that any standing water resulting from
the discharge will not cause excessive inconvenience or flooding/damage
to adjacent land or structures.
▪ The effectiveness of control devices must be monitored during the discharge period
and any necessary repairs or modifications made.

2. Unplanned Discharges
▪ Stop the discharge as quickly as possible.
▪ Inspect flow path of the discharged water:
- Identify erodible areas which may need to be repaired or protected during
subsequent repairs or corrective actions
- Identify the potential for pollutants to be washed into the waterway
▪ If repairs or corrective action will cause additional discharges of water, select the
appropriate procedures for erosion control, chlorine residual, turbidity, and chemical
additives. Prevent potential pollutants from entering the flow path.

Sanitary Sewer Maintenance
▪ Clean sewer lines on a regular basis to remove grease, grit, and other debris that may
lead to sewer backups.
▪ Establish routine maintenance program. Cleaning should be conducted at an
established minimum frequency and more frequently for problem areas such as
restaurants that are identified.
▪ Cleaning activities may require removal of tree roots and other identified
obstructions.
▪ During routine maintenance and inspection note the condition of sanitary sewer
structures and identify areas that need repair or maintenance. Items to note may
include the following:
- Cracked/deteriorating pipes
- Leaking joints/seals at manhole
- Frequent line plugs
- Line generally flows at or near capacity
- Suspected infiltration or exfiltration.
▪ Prioritize repairs based on the nature and severity of the problem. Immediate clearing
of blockage or repair is required where an overflow is currently occurring or for
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urgent problems that may cause an imminent overflow (e.g. pump station failures,
sewer line ruptures, sewer line blockages). These repairs may be temporary until
scheduled or capital improvements can be completed.
▪ Review previous sewer maintenance records to help identify “hot spots” or areas with
frequent maintenance problems and locations of potential system failure.

Spills and Overflows
▪ Identify and track sanitary sewer discharges. Identify dry weather infiltration and
inflow first. Wet weather overflow connections are very difficult to locate.
▪ Locate wet weather overflows and leaking sanitary sewers using conventional source
identification techniques such as monitoring and field screening. Techniques used to
identify other illicit connection sources can also be used for sewer system evaluation
surveys (see SC-20 Drainage System Operation and Maintenance).
▪ Implement community awareness programs for monitoring sanitary sewer wet
weather overflows.
▪ Establish lead department/agency responsible for spill response and containment.
Provide coordination within departments.
▪ Record required information at the spill site.
▪ Perform field tests as necessary to determine the source of the spill.
▪ Develop notification procedures regarding spill reporting.

Septic Systems
▪ Ensure that homeowners, installers, and inspectors are educated in proper
maintenance of septic systems. This may require coordination with staff from other
departments. Outreach to homeowners should include inspection reminders informing
then that inspection and perhaps maintenance is due for their systems. Recommend
that the system be inspected annually and pumped-out regularly.
▪ Programs which seek to address failing septic systems should consider using field
screening to pinpoint areas where more detailed onsite inspection surveys are
warranted.

Training
▪ Conduct annual training of water utility personnel and service contractors. (field
screening, sampling, smoke/dye testing, TV inspection).

Spill Response and Prevention
▪ See previous section regarding spills and overflows.
▪ Refer to SC-2, Spill Prevention, Control & Cleanup
▪ Have spill cleanup materials readily available and in a known location.
▪ Cleanup spills immediately and use dry methods if possible.
▪ Properly dispose of spill cleanup material.

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7 BMP Implementation and Evaluation
Introduction
As noted in Section 1, each municipality regulated under stormwater NPDES permits,
whether categorized as a Phase I or Phase II municipality, is required to implement a
stormwater management program and to assess the effectiveness of the program.
Although specific program requirements and the level of implementation required differ
between Phase I and Phase II municipalities, both prohibit non-stormwater discharges
into storm drains, and require controls to reduce the discharge of pollutants to the
maximum extent practicable (MEP). As part of the program, the municipalities are
required to address municipal operations to reduce the discharge of pollutants and to
assess these efforts. Section 2 provides information on some of the necessary elements
and steps involved in identifying BMPs for municipal activities occurring at fixed
facilities and in field programs, whereas this Section discusses the components necessary
to successfully implement a BMP and evaluate its effectiveness.
BMP Implementation
Municipal employees perform numerous municipal activities that have the potential to
discharge pollutants. Staff should consistently implement the procedures or BMPs
applicable to these activities.

Successful implementation of a BMP is dependent on the following components:
▪ Effective training of municipal employees working in both fixed facilities and field
programs.
▪ Regular inspections of fixed facilities, field programs, and treatment controls.
▪ Maintenance of treatment controls as needed to ensure proper functioning.
▪ Periodic evaluation/monitoring of BMP performance consistent with NPDES permit
requirements.
▪ Follow-up action to correct deficiencies in BMP implementation noted during
inspections.
▪ Accurate record keeping to track training, inspections, monitoring, and BMP
maintenance.
Staff Training
Education and training is the key to the success of BMP implementation. Typically,
municipalities provide annual training sessions. In addition to municipally sponsored
training, staff may also attend local, regional, statewide, or national training seminars or
workshops related to stormwater management and water quality conducted by other
organizations.

In general, a municipality should consider a training program for employees working in
fixed facilities and/or field programs. The training program should address the following
subjects:

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▪ Maintenance Procedure Implementation and Inspection – In this training effort,
proper procedures for performing municipal activities that may adversely affect
stormwater quality are addressed. Maintenance procedures cover a wide range of
municipal activities and the training may address either all maintenance procedures
applicable to the municipality or a specific procedure (e.g. fertilizer and pesticide
use). This training can be conducted in either a formal or a tailgate-style format.
▪ Pollution Prevention/Spill Awareness – This training addresses the general techniques
municipal staff may implement to prevent pollution, as well as to respond to spills
once they have occurred. Training can be tailored to management and other municipal
staff who oversee pollution prevention measures, to field staff conducting activities
that may result in spills, or to field staff who may encounter spills or illicit discharges.
Site Inspections
Inspections of municipal fixed facilities and field programs should be performed to verify
that BMPs are being implemented, that they are appropriate for that facility or program,
and that they continue to reduce the discharge of pollutants. Inspections generally consist
of the following:

▪ Fixed Facilities – Inspections are typically performed by a combination of stormwater
program staff and on-site fixed facility managers. The inspection of a fixed facility
may include spot checks of the facility and activities being performed at the facility,
and interviews with key line staff.

▪ Field Programs– Inspections are typically performed by a combination of stormwater
program staff and field program supervisors. The inspection of a field program may
include spot checks of activities being performed, and interviews with key staff.

Inspection Frequencies

Fixed facility or field program inspection frequency depends on the nature of the facility
or program. Annual inspection is typical, with a more frequent schedule for
facilities/activities that pose a greater threat to discharge pollutants.

Inspection Documentation Procedures

Inspection forms may be developed and used to properly document all inspections and
gather the necessary information for record keeping and annual reporting. Examples
include:

▪ General Inspection Forms – These primary forms provide for a general
characterization of the fixed facility or field program being inspected, including the
type of facility or program, the reason for inspection, activities that may take place,
and BMPs applicable for the facility. A general form for all inspections and a single
fixed facility specific form should be completed.
▪ Activity Specific Inspection Forms – These secondary forms include a series of
questions or checklist items about specific activities taking place at a fixed facility or
as part of a field program, as well as a list of suggested corrective action plans that
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can be implemented should a problem be found. All forms applicable to the activities
being performed at a fixed facility or field program should be completed.
Recordkeeping
As applicable, the municipality should maintain records demonstrating successful
implementation of BMPs. Recordkeeping may include training, site inspection and
maintenance, and if applicable, monitoring.

Training and Workshops

Records of all training sessions provided to staff should be maintained to allow for:

▪ Determining which staff requires which training;
▪ Determining when training sessions must be conducted; and
▪ Documenting training activities for enforcement and compliance purposes.

Municipal staff may attend training sessions or workshops sponsored by non-Permittees
such as local or national organizations. For these sessions, the following information
should be recorded:

▪ Name of Workshop/Training
▪ Sponsoring Organization
▪ General Description of the Subject Matter
▪ Location and Date
▪ Attendee information (name, title, department, phone and/or email)

Site Inspection and BMP Maintenance

Inspection reports should be kept to track frequency and results of inspections, BMPs
implemented condition of BMPs inspected, and follow-up actions taken. It is also
important to keep a record of maintenance activities or any other BMPs that are of an
“action” nature. It is easy to demonstrate that a BMP that involves a physical change,
such as berming or covering, has been accomplished. However, actions that relate to
good housekeeping can only be demonstrated by recordkeeping. Besides demonstrating
compliance, records can assist in BMP management. Keeping a record of catch basin
cleaning, for example, also provides insight into how long it takes for the catch basin
sump to refill.
Reporting

Phase II municipalities are required under the Phase II General NDPES Permit to submit
annual reports to the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality each year, or
as otherwise required. Specific reporting requirements will include:

▪ Program implementation status.
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▪ Summary of stormwater activities performed.
▪ Results of information collected, such as monitoring data.
▪ Summary of proposed stormwater activities for the next reporting cycle.
▪ Changes made in BMP selection.
▪ Changes in stormwater management personnel.
▪ Changes made in program or measurable goals.

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8 Appendix A
8.1 Assessment of Municipal Operations
This appendix provides an example assessment worksheet that can be used for evaluating
fixed facilities to determine the level of BMP implementation.

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City of Burlington Facility BMP Worksheet
________________________________________________________________________
Facility Name: Address:
Contact Name: Phone:

1. Activities- In the table below check each activity present at the site and evaluate its potential for
pollutant discharge (PPD): 1= high, 2= medium, 3= low.
2. BMP Effectiveness- In the table below, provide an effectiveness rating using the provided scale.
(1) No BMPs used and stormwater pollution likely (2) Some BMPs used but not effective (3) Some BMPs used and
moderately effective (4) Source control BMPs used and very effective/structural BMPs needed (5) All necessary BMPs used
and very effective
BMP’s Applicable Activity
YES NO PPD
Effectiveness
Rating*
1) Building and Grounds Maintenance and
Repair
BMPs employed: [ ] [ ] [ ] (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
2) Parking/Storage Area Maintenance
BMPs employed: [ ] [ ] [ ] (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
3) Waste Handling and Disposal
BMPs employed: [ ] [ ] [ ] (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
4) Vehicle and Equipment Fueling
BMPs employed: [ ] [ ] [ ] (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
5) Vehicle and Equipment Maintenance
and Repair
BMPs employed: [ ] [ ] [ ] (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
6) Vehicle and Equipment Cleaning
BMPs employed: [ ] [ ] [ ] (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
7) Outdoor Loading and Unloading of
Materials
BMPs employed: [ ] [ ] [ ] (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
8) Outdoor Container Storage of Liquids
BMPs employed: [ ] [ ] [ ] (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
9) Outdoor Storage of Raw Materials
BMPs employed: [ ] [ ] [ ] (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
10) Outdoor Process Equipment
BMPs employed: [ ] [ ] [ ] (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
11) Landscape Maintenance
BMPs employed: [ ] [ ] [ ] (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
A. Other (Describe)
BMPs employed: [ ] [ ] [ ] (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)

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9 Appendix B
9.1 Municipal Operations Inventory
This appendix provides the lists of municipal operations with address, contact name and
phone number as well as identifier numbers for their respective activities associated with
potential stormwater runoff generated pollutions.

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10 Appendix C
10.1 Municipal Operations Inspection Forms
This appendix provides the forms to be utilized for both fixed facilities as well as field
programs.