A Small Spill Is a Big DealWater Quality DivisionInspection and Enforcement

Water Quality:Regulations and Fine Amounts

Discharging pollutants to the waters of the District without a permit Class 1 Violation $4,000.00

Discharging used motor oil into a sewer Class 2 Violation $2,000.00

Discharging corrosive, flammable or explosive material into a sewer Class 2 Violation $2,000.00

Discharging oil, gasoline, anti-freeze, acid, or other hazardous substance, pollutant or nuisance material on a public space Class 3 Violation $1,000.00

Water Quality Division Inspections

1. Facility walkthrough

2. Interview with facility manager or other designated employee

3. Records review

4. Consultation

Know Where Your Drains Go

Garage drains and street drains often empty directly to our rivers. This means that everything that washes from your property ends up in the rivers and streams of our communities.

Protecting Water Quality1. Know the location and

discharge point of all drains on your property.

2. Accidents Happen. Have a spill response kit on site at all times.

3. Never allow any automotive fluids, cleaners, degreasers, paints, solvents, or other waste materials to enter a drain, or wash into the public space.

Preventing Pollution at the Source

• Clean all fluid spills, leaks, and drips immediately using absorbent materials.

• Use dry methods to clean your facility (broom, vacuum, and absorb). Never hose down your garage, or outdoor lot.

Preventing Pollution at the Source

• Store all automotive fluids in easily accessible, closed and labeled containers.

• Ensure all automotive parts (i.e. engine blocks, and transmissions) are stored under cover, and raised off of the ground.

• Have a spill prevention plan for your facility.

• Know who to call, and how to protect your drains in emergencies.

• Always dispose of waste materials properly.

Poor Housekeeping and Common Problems…