Stormwater Management Public Education

Public Education & Participation

Storm drains discharge water, as well as any pollutants and litter that is picked up, directly into our waterways and eventually the ocean without any form of treatment. Because this water receives no treatment, it is especially important to keep all pollutants out.

Meadow

Draining a Swimming Pool or Spa

When Paso heats up, the pool starts calling your name. Before you jump in for the first time each season, you should first check the condition of your pool for holes in the liner, missing tiles, or other problems that might require the pool to be drained. This brochure gives you step-by-step instructions for draining your pool or spa safely and legally. 
Este folleto le brinda instrucciones paso a paso para drenar su piscina o spa.

Help Stop Water Pollution

The City of Paso Robles is required to implement a Phase II Municipal Stormwater Program in order to reduce or eliminate the pollutants that enter our waterways from both Stormwater and non-Stormwater flows.

This brochure (PDF) contains hints that you can use to reduce the pollutants in stormwater runoff and eliminate non-stormwater discharges.

Best Management Practices for Power Washing (Mobile & Surface Cleaning)

Power Washing is an activity that uses a water pressure system, including steam cleaning, to clean:

  • Buildings
  • Dumpsters
  • Equipment
  • Sidewalks
  • Vehicles or Other Impervious Surfaces

In addition to water, detergents, degreasers and other products may be used in commercial power washing.

The Problem with Power Washing

Did you know that storm drains are not connected to sanitary sewer systems or treatment plants? The primary purpose of storm drains is to carry rainwater away from developed areas to prevent flooding. Wash water from power washing (PDF)activities may contain significant quantities of oil, grease, chemicals, dirt, and detergents that could end up in our waterways and the ocean.

Best Management Practices for Mobile Cleaning Activities

Mobile cleaning activities can generate significant quantities of wastewater as a result of their washing operations. Wastewater can contain:

  • Acid Solutions
  • Debris
  • Dirt
  • Food Wastes
  • Grease
  • Metal
  • Oil
  • Paint Chips
  • Soap
  • Solvents

Wastewater discharged to the storm drain system contributes to urban runoff pollution.The Mobile Cleaning Booklet (PDF) contains information on how to dispose of wastewater from a various types of mobile services related to surface cleaning, transportation, food service, and carpet cleaning.

Preventing Stormwater Pollution at Your Business

If your business routinely generates a discharge to a storm drain or waterway, you may be able to discharge to the sanitary sewer. Please contact the City's Industrial Waste Program at 805-227-1654 for more information.

The Best Management Practices brochure (PDF) contains general tips that apply to many businesses for preventing stormwater pollution and non-stormwater discharges from your business.

Grease

Keeping Fats, Oils, and Grease Out of the Sewer (PDF) questions and answers for food service establishments regarding fats, oil, and grease and grease removal devices

Pet Care Tips to Help Stop Stormwater Pollution

Pet waste (PDF) can cause water pollution even if you do not live near a waterway. During rain events, pet waste left on the ground can wash into the storm drains and creeks which flow untreated to the ocean. Whether you own small animals or livestock, you can help prevent stormwater pollution by properly disposing of pet waste and manure. Shampoos and flea control products can also pose a threat to aquatic life in our creeks. Proper use and disposal of these products can help maintain water quality.