Storm Drain Dumping Prohibitions

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