Businesses

The places where we shop and eat as well as where we work, learn, and worship all contribute to the pollution of stormwater runoff. Simple management practices can prevent stormwater pollution, and prevention is good business. It means clean water, clean neighborhoods and it shows your customers that you care about your community.

Chemical Alternatives

Take advantage of less-toxic alternatives to dangerous chemicals. From detergents to drain openers, there are a lot of ways to get the same or better result without having to rely on toxic substances.

  1. Restaurants
  2. Automotive Services
  3. Commercial Landscape Maintenance
  4. Carpet Cleaning
  5. Mobile Vehicle Maintenance
  6. General Industrial & Manufacturing

Overview

Food waste, grease, cleaning fluids, mop water, and trash from restaurant operations often make their way into the storm drain system and do not get treated before reaching the rivers. Follow these best management practices to prevent pollution, protect public health and avoid fines or legal action.

  • Cleaning and Maintenance: Clean equipment, floor mats, filters, and garbage cans in a mop sink, wash rack or floor drain connected to the sewer through a grease trap. Don't wash them or pour wash water in a parking lot, alley, sidewalk or street.
  • Recycle oil and grease: Oil and grease wastes can be recycled. Look in the yellow pages for rendering companies, or call 706-291-5266 for disposal information. Don't pour oil or grease into sinks, floor drains or onto a parking lot or street. Keep grease bins covered and contained.
  • Dumpster areas: Keep dumpster lids closed and the areas around them clean. Do not fill with liquid waste or hose them out. Do not wash down or steam clean the trash enclosure area or trash bin unless you collect the water and dispose of it into the sanitary sewer.
  • Managing spills: Use dry methods for spill cleanup, sweeping, and using cat litter instead of hosing.
  • Handling toxic chemicals: Dispose of all unwanted toxic materials like cleaners, solvents, and detergents through a hazardous waste hauler.