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1. How do I drain my swimming pool?

Draining Pools/Spas
Pools/spas should be dechlorinated, have a neutral pH, and all other chemicals and salts dissipated before draining. Use a home pool test kit to confirm that the chlorine residual levels do not exceed 0.1 ppm, and that the pH level is between 6.5 and 8.5.  Pools/spas should be drained to the street gutter at a low flow rate.  Be sure to regulate the rate of the discharge so that it does not cause problems such as erosion, flooding, water entering a neighboring property, water entering slopes, or overburden the downstream drainage facility.  When chlorine, salts, and other chemicals enter stormdrains and waterways it harms aquatic life.

For further information contact the City's Environmental Program Coordinator at (909) 364-2835.

2. What is storm water pollution?

Storm water pollution occurs when pollutants, such as automobile fluids, pet wastes, and sediments, enter the storm drain system. Rain water picks up pollutants as it flows across paved surfaces and carries them into the storm water conveyance system and out to local waterways.

3. Are sewers and storm drains the same thing?

Sewers and storm drains are not the same thing. Sewers collect wastewater from indoor plumbing, such as toilets, sinks, washing machines, and floor drains. A municipal sewer system includes the collection, treatment, and disposal of sewage water. A municipal storm water system only transports water for flood control purposes; no treatment of storm water occurs before it is discharged to local bodies.

4. How do I report a storm water pollution concern?

Concerns regarding possible pollutants being discharged to a street gutter, storm drain, or storm channel should be directed to the Environmental Program Coordinator in the Engineering Division of Public Works at (909) 364-2770.

Additionally, the County of San Bernardino maintains a 24-hour toll free water pollution reporting hotline at (800) CLEANUP.

To report serious spill emergencies, call 911.

5. If yard clippings and leaves are natural, why are they considered pollutants?

As yard clippings and leaves decompose, they deplete water of dissolved oxygen that aquatic species, including fish and turtles, need to survive. Excessive plant material also encourages algae growth.