The District of Columbia has two systems to manage stormwater, the Combined Sewer System (CSS) and the Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4). Stormwater in the CSS is treated at DC Water’s wastewater treatment facility before being released into the Potomac River. In the MS4 sewershed, stormwater enters our local waterways untreated, bringing all the pollutants it picks up along the way.
DOEE investigates water pollution in the MS4 sewershed.
How to Report a Spill
Example of Spills
- Vehicle fluids leaking onto the street
- Dumping vehicle fluids into storm drains
- Soapy water from washing cars, sidewalks, buildings, or awnings
- Dumping food or grease into storm drains
- Dumping wastewater into storm drains or the street
- Raw sewage
- Yard waste
- Draining swimming pools into the street Stockpiling landscape dirt on the street
Examples of spills:
Stormwater Runoff Frequently Asked Questions
What is Stormwater Pollution?
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Stormwater pollution comes directly from runoff during a storm event. This water can runoff of roof tops, driveways, parking lots, yards, and streets. During this event, water picks up many of the pollutants that are already on these surfaces such as toxic metals, pesticides, fertilizers, vehicle oils, dirt particles, trash, and leaves. The water, and all its pollutants, travels to the local storm sewer and into local rivers and streams and eventually into the Chesapeake Bay.
What is the City's Responsibility?
- Stormwater Management Rule and Guidebook
- The District enforces stormwater regulations for new development and at industrial facilities
- Installs low-impact green infrastructure throughout the city to help capture pollutants before they enter our rivers and streams
What is the Property owner's Responsibility?
- Ensure that all drains on your property are clean
- Properly contain and dispose of waste
- Make sure all areas of natural land cover are not eroding
- If you have a stormwater best management practice (BMP) make sure that it functions as designed.
What if Runoff from my Neighbor's Propery is Impacting Mine?
What if runoff from my neighbor's property is impacting mine?
How Do I Report a Spill or Illicit Discharge?
How Do I report a Clogged Stormdrain?
- Public property: DC Water Report a problem
- Private Property: Property owners are responsible for maintaining all stormwater drains and structures on private property
- Stormwater BMP Self-Inspection and Self-Reporting