Mobile Pet Groomers
It is illegal to allow anything other than rainwater to be discharged to a storm drain.
Wash water should never be discharged to a street, gutter, parking lot, or storm drain. If discharged or disposed of improperly, materials such as soaps, including biodegradable soaps, and insecticides can be harmful to water quality and creek habitats.
Individuals and businesses that improperly handle and dispose of non-stormwater materials down the storm drain are both subject to civil and criminal prosecution.
HOW ARE THE STORM DRAIN AND SANITARY SEWER SYSTEMS DIFFERENT?
The storm drain system transports rainwater to local creeks, rivers, and the ocean. This system was created to prevent flooding within communities and homes.
All water and materials that enter the storm drain system are untreated.
The sanitary sewer is a plumbed system that transports used water from buildings to a wastewater collection and treatment facility, where the water and sewage is treated.
If you see an outdoor drain and are unsure of its use, assume it is a storm drain and do not discharge wash water to it.
Clean creeks are important. They provide vital fish habitat, recreation, and add to the beauty of our city.
Cleaning products labeled “nontoxic” and “biodegradable” can still harm wildlife if they enter the storm drain system. These products are prohibited discharges to the storm drain system.
Best Practices:
Always drain wash water to the sewer. Never let it go to the street, storm drain, or landscape.
Before you get started, find the sewer clean out or a sink you can use. Or, be prepared to collect the wash water in a holding tank or drum for later disposal to the sewer system at the business's office or other approved location.
Keep your equipment and hoses in good repair to eliminate any leaks.
Filter wash water through a wire mesh strainer to remove solids prior to discharge to the sanitary sewer.
Throw away solids in the trash. Fur/excess hair or other solids present in the wash water can cause blockages in the sewer system.
All chemicals and cleaning agents must be securely stored on vehicles.
Are You Ready to Respond to a Spill?
Have a written plan.
Train employees annually on storm water regulations, spill response, personal safety, and hazardous waste handling and disposal.
Have spill cleanup materials onsite.
Have Safety Data Sheets for all products used.
Where Can You Dispose of Wash Water?
A one-time discharge permit may be required for disposal to the sanitary sewer.
Check your local jurisdiction for discharge requirements.
For more information about obtaining a Waste-water Discharge Permit, contact your local Wastewater authority.
With permission from the sanitary sewer district and the property owner, wash water from mobile pet groomers can be discharged into a:
Floor, Utility or Mop Sink
Toilet
Drain connected to sanitary sewer
For an emergency or a spill involving hazardous materials or hazardous waste call 911 or your local Fire Department.
FOR ALL NON-EMERGENCY / NON-HAZARDOUS SPILLS
To report a Non-Hazardous spill, or for other useful phone numbers, see Spill Numbers informational reference sheet for your local agency contact information or visit: www.streetstocreeks.org/spill-numbers/