In this month’s development digest, we will learn about storm drain tags, and how developers in Warren County can easily add them into their construction process to protect the natural waters. Storm drain tags are an important tool that we can use to keep pollutants out of the natural waters, and so this article will go into what a storm drain tag is, different types of tags, and why it is worth the extra little bit of effort to install these tags.
What is a storm drain tag?

• A storm drain tag is a type of label placed on a storm drain to prevent anyone from dumping harmful pollutants into the drain.
• The main purpose of the label is to provide a visual warning to keep people from illegally dumping into the drain, and to also provide education to those who may not know about the pollutants that can’t be dumped into the drain.

 
Why might a developer want to spend money on storm drain tags?

• Storm drain tags are an inexpensive way to promote a healthier and more environmentally conscious community.
• They can protect the integrity of storm drains.
• Ensuring that only rain goes down the drain will help keep retention basins clear and attractive. Reduces the need to use excess pond dye since the water is already healthy and clear.
• Can save money in the future by preventing spills of hazardous material that requires clean-up.

 
Types of Drain Tags

• There are a few main types of drain tags: Pre-cast, plastic, and metal tags.
  • Pre-cast: Pre-cast storm drain tags are casted onto the storm drain when the structure is built. Pre-cast tags require the least effort since they are made with the rest of the storm drain.
  • Plastic: Plastic storm drain tags are typically attached to the drain using glue. A substantial amount of glue should be used to install the tags to create a proper seal.
  • Metal: Metal storm drain tags can be installed either with glue like the plastic, or some tags have a bolt and a nut that holds the tag in the grate of the storm drain.
  • All three of these tags are effective methods to keep pollution from entering the drains.

 
If you have any questions regarding storm drain tags or the installation of the tags you can contact us at the Warren County Soil and Water Conservation District website https://www.warrenswcd.com/ or by our phone number at (513) 695-1337.
 
 
Additional Resources
Nonpoint Source Pollution – US EPA

In an effort to protect the health of our local waterways- rule 901:10-3-11 of the Ohio Administrative Code prohibits solid and liquid waste from being discharged into stormwater runoff. You know the drill- only rain should go down the drain!
 
Since the risk of stormwater pollution increases with construction activity and land development- the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency’s Construction General Permit (CGP) takes storm drain dumping prohibitions to another level. While the permit largely discusses sediment and erosion control measures, it also lists specific potential pollutants to be mindful of and requires a site-specific Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) be written and maintained.
 
Prohibited Discharges

• Concrete washout
• Stucco washout, paint, form release oils, curing compounds, and other construction materials
• Fuels, oils, and other vehicle fluids
• Soaps or solvents from vehicle and equipment washing
• Wastes from any activity that is expected to elevate concentrations of carcinogens, hydrocarbons, metals, or toxics in stormwater runoff

 
Other Potential Pollutants to Minimize

• Trash
• Sanitary wastes
• Landscape materials, fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides

 
Spills and Unintended Releases
Intentionally dumping waste down the drain is certainly prohibited but accidental discharges are just as serious and should be addressed immediately. Keeping up on your periodic site inspections is a great way to identify and address these problems. When possible, locate dumpsters, fueling stations, concrete washout areas, and portable bathrooms away from storm drains and watercourses.
 
For more details on reportable quantities, please refer to this Release Reporting of a Hazardous Substance guide by the Ohio EPA. While an emergency can also constitute a violation, an emergency should be reported immediately to Ohio EPA’s 24-hour spill hotline at 1-800-282-9378 or 614-224-0946.
 
Additional Resources
Nearby Sanitary Landfills & Construction and Demolition Debris Facilities
Ohio EPA NPDES General Construction Permit (OHC000006)
Ohio Rainwater and Land Development Manual