Prevention and Collection
Orange County cities are required under federal and state law to prohibit the discharge of pollution to the storm drain system. Therefore, wastewater from mobile detailing, pressure washing, steam cleaning, carpet cleaning, or similar activities can not be discharged to the storm drain system.
What should I do to prevent pollutions?
- Evaluate the products used for cleaning and reduce or eliminate those that contain solvents, heavy metals, high levels of phosphates, or very high/very low pH;
- Prior to starting, review the area where the cleaning and identify all drains and catch basins where wastewater could enter the storm drain system;
- Block/seal off drains or catch basins using sand bags, plugs, rubber mats, or temporary berms;
- Collect all trash and debris from the project area and place in a trash bin for disposal;
- Sweep all surface areas prior to cleaning to remove suspended solids, soil, and grit.
- Identify the wastewater disposal option that will be used. Whether you are discharging to landscaping or the sanitary sewer, it is necessary that you meet all the requirements identified below.
What methods can be used to collect wastewater at a site?
There is no specific containment method that must be used for wastewater collection/diversion. However, the system must be adequately designed so that the wastewater does not flow into storm drain inlet. All mobile and existing businesses should use one of the following methods:
- Portable containment areas can be made from waterproof tarps, heavy-duty plastic, or rubber matting equipped with berms to prevent wastewater from running into storm drain inlets or off-site. Materials that can be used for berms include sand bags or water-filled tubing. Whatever containment material is used, it must seal tightly to the ground so that no wastewater can pass under or over the berms.
- When power washing smaller pieces of equipment, containment devices to use may include portable vinyl swimming pools, plastic 55-gallon drums on casters, and flat metal or plastic containment pads.
- Depending on the volume of wastewater generated, it may be necessary to use wet-dry vacuum or a sump pump to discharge the wastewater to the landscaping or sewer;
- Stationary or more permanent containment areas can be constructed with cement. Berms and pump systems may be used to contain wastewater and divert it to a holding tank;
- Commercial wastewater collection systems are also available for power washing. These systems can range from portable wash pits to self-contained water recycling systems. A list of companies selling this type of equipment can usually be found in the telephone book under “Pressure Washing Services and Equipment” and
- Storm drain inlet covers can be made of an impermeable barrier such as a heavy-duty vinyl or plastic secured in place with materials such as concrete blocks, gravel bags, or sand bags. Storm drain inlet covers may also be available though commercial vendors.
**Note: Blocking storm drain catch basin inlets in the public right-of-way is prohibited unless permitted through an encroachment permit. Wastewater should be contained on-site.
You wouldn’t wash your car in the ocean…
…so why would you let your soap, grease and dirty water enter the storm drains?
When you wash your car at home, the water you use can flow into the street, picking up dirt, chemicals and trash along the way. This water then runs into storm drains, where it flows untreated into channels, harbors, and the ocean. You can help protect the environment by using commercial car washes. If you must wash your car at home, use a trigger nozzle to minimize water usage. Washing your car on grass or gravel also helps absorb the water.
Brought to you by the City of Fountain Valley and the Orange County Stormwater Program.
For more information, call the City of Fountain Valley Public Works Department at (714) 593-4441 or visit www.ocwatersheds.com.