When water flows off our streets, it carries trash, oil, and other pollutants with it through the storm drain system and local waterways, to the Santa Ana River, and eventually to the Pacific Ocean.  These bodies of water are used for recreation, groundwater recharge, and are home to local wildlife.

Residents can keep stormwater pollutants out of the storm drain system by:

• Placing litter in the trash can or recycling container, not down a storm drain or into the street.
• Using pesticides and fertilizers only when necessary and never allowing them to be washed into the street by rain or sprinkler runoff.
• Rinsing water-based paints off of painting equipment in the sink instead of the curb.
• Sweeping up yard clippings and placing them into your green waste container.
• Fencing off stream side areas to keep horses away from waterways.

Businesses can go to the business section of the San Bernardino County Stormwater Pollution Prevention website to get information about best management practices to prevent stormwater pollution.

If you observe illegal dumping or the release of known or suspected hazardous materials, call 911 immediately.  Stay away from the material and spill area and also keep others away. 

To report non-emergency violations, call the 24 hour pollution hotline at (877) WASTE18 or complete a form online at http://www.sbcountystormwater.org/.

For information about proper disposal of household hazardous waste, collection facilities, and hours of operation call (800) OILYCAT or visit http://www.sbcfire.org/hazmat/hhwcollection.asp.