The importance of keeping pollutants from entering out street drains is something that each San Francisco resident and business should be aware of as they go through their day.  According to the State Water Resource Control Board, urban storm water runoff is the leading cause of water pollution in California - to learn more about why this is, click here.

To increase public awareness and promote reporting of illegal dumping to 695-2020, the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission is installing new and highly visible No Dumping: Only Rain Down the Drain decals throughout the City.

To do your part, follow the tips below:

Only Rain Down the Drain!!

• Don't dump waste in or around storm drains -- report any illegal dumping or potential storm water pollutants to (415) 695-2020.     
  
  
  
  

Pet Waste

• Pick up after your pets

Lawn and Garden Care

• Minimize the use of fertilizers, pesticides and insecticides in your lawn and garden
• Use less-toxic gardening and pest control techniques and products - go to  www.ourwaterourworld.org for fact sheets and to find retailers that carry less-toxic products 
• Do not apply lawn or garden products when rain is forecast
• Don't overwater - consider using a soaker hose instead of a sprinkler
• Do not over apply lawn and garden products and follow all instructions - never buy more than you need
• Minimize soil erosion on your property - plant vegetation on all bare areas
• Cover piles of dirt or mulch being used in landscaping projects
• Compost or mulch yard waste - don't sweep it onto the street or into storm drains

Car Care

• Inspect your car for leaks and regularly maintain your vehicle
• Take your car to a car wash instead of washing it in the driveway - if you do wash your own car, do it on a grassy area if possible and don't use harsh cleaners
• Drive less - to minimize the accumulation of break dust and vehicle emission particulates on the ground

Proper Disposal

• Recycle used motor oil, antifreeze and other fluid
• Properly dispose of household chemicals and hazardous wastes through the San Francisco Household Hazardous Waste Facility - go to www.sfenvironment.org for details.  Products that say caution, warning, danger or poison on the label should generally be taken to a hazardous waste facility
• Have your septic tank pumped and system inspected regularly

General Clean Up

• Sweep sidewalks and driveways clean - don't hose them down.  Let your neighbors and local retailers know that they should do the same.
• Note that litter and debris that accumulates on your side walk can legally be swept into the street, but only in the hour prior to scheduled street sweeping.
• Never sweep anything into a street drain!
• Don't use water to hose spills into the gutter - use kitty litter to clean up
• Participate in neighborhood and beach cleanups - go to www.sfcleancity.com and www.surfrider.org for details