Stormwater

Stormwater ordinances can be searched here.

Be Part of the Solution to Stormwater Pollution

In the City of Whitehouse, the stormwater system is separate from the sanitary sewer system. When it rains, pollutants such as oil, antifreeze, detergents, and pesticides are washed from driveways, yards, parking lots, and streets into storm drains.

This water is then discharged into our local watershed with no treatment. Stormwater Management is the process of controlling the runoff that comes primarily from impervious surfaces like parking lots, driveways, and rooftops.

How You Can Help

  • Keep grass clippings, trash, and dirt off the streets and out of the gutter.
  • Park your car on the grass before washing.
  • Recycle used motor oil - do not dump! Most automotive stores collect waste oil.
  • Spread the word about protecting our waters from polluted runoff to friends and family.
  • Use fertilizers and pesticides as directed.

Wastewater & Stormwater

  1. Automotive Repair & Maintenance
  2. Construction Industry Stormwater Tips
  3. Residential Stormwater Tips
  4. Watersheds

How Automotive Fluids Impact Stormwater

One of the leading sources of stormwater pollution is automobile fluids. Automotive Repair/Maintenance facilities are considered to be stormwater Hotspots, due to the volume of hydrocarbons, trace metals, and other pollutants found onsite. Common pollutants that can be found at these type facilities include:

  • Antifreeze
  • Batteries
  • Brake Fluid
  • Fuels (Gasoline, Diesel, Kerosene)
  • Lubricating Grease
  • Motor Oils
  • Solvents (Paints and Paint Thinners)

What You Can Do

To prevent stormwater pollution, automobile products should be properly handled and stored. For example, make sure waste containers are in good condition, secure, and kept away from water resources. Some additional best management practices (BMP) for automotive repair/maintenance facilities include:

  • All activities should be in a contained area on either a concrete or asphalt surface
  • Mix the right amount of paint needed for the job
  • Use less toxic substances, when available
  • Use funnels or pumps when handling liquids or wastes
  • Never discharge any waste into a street, ditch, or stream