Stormwater pollution is rapidly growing in importance as a national environmental issue. In California, stormwater pollution is a major source of water pollution. To help combat the problems of stormwater pollution, federal and state governments have developed a program for monitoring and permitting discharges to municipal storm drain systems, creeks, and water bodies such as the Pacific Ocean.
Municipalities in the Los Angeles area are required by the Clean Water Act to develop stormwater management programs that include requirements for construction activities. Your construction project will need to comply with local municipal requirements. If your construction activity will disturb five acres or more, you must also obtain coverage under the General Construction Activity Permit
Blueprint for a Clean Ocean is an introductory guide to stormwater quality control on construction sites. It contains several principles and techniques that you can use to help prevent stormwater pollution. This booklet has been developed as a resource for all general contractors, homebuilders, and subcontractors working on construction sites.
Storm Drain System
Stormwater or runoff from sources like sprinklers and hoses flows over the ground into the storm drain system. In the Los Angeles Area, storm drain systems consist of gutters, storm drains, underground pipes, open channels, culverts, and creeks. Storm drain systems are designed to drain directly to the Pacific Ocean with no treatment.
Pollution From Construction Sites
Stormwater runoff is part of a natural hydrologic process. However, land development and construction activities can significantly alter natural drainage patterns and pollute stormwater runoff. Runoff picks up pollutants as it flows over the ground or paved areas and carries these pollutants into the storm drain system. Common sources of pollutants from construction sites include: sediments from soil erosion; construction materials and waste (e.g., paint, solvents, concrete, drywall); landscaping runoff containing fertilizers and pesticides; and spilled oil, fuel, and other fluids from construction vehicles and heavy equipment.
Adverse Effects from Stormwater Pollution
Stormwater pollution is a major source of water pollution in California. It can cause declines in fisheries, disrupt habitats, and limit water recreation activities. Even more importantly, stormwater pollution poses a serious threat to the overall health of the ecosystem.
To report a Storm Water Pollution violation call (562) 570-DUMP.
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