Stormwater Pollutants
Be prepared for rainy season 
With rainy season around the corner, recognize that flood control is a shared responsibility.
- Canals are managed by the drainage district they are located in.
- Understand YOUR neighborhood drainage limitations. Every neighborhood drains differently.
- If you are part of a homeowner’s association, identify the HOA representative authorized to operate any water control structures.
- Check for any structure, storm drain or canal blockages – remove debris and/or report any issues.
- Be aware that extreme rain can overwhelm drainage systems
What are Storm Drains?
Storm drains (like those found along curbs) do not go to wastewater treatment plants. Water entering storm drains flows untreated into streams, rivers, ponds, wetlands, lakes, sounds, bays, and oceans.
Since stormwater is not treated, it can pick up and carry numerous pollutants into our waterways. Many of these pollutants can cause problems in very small amounts.
Common Pollutants
Yard Waste – 50% of yard waste that enters waterways are grass clippings. When not properly disposed of, yard waste flows down storm drains and can cause drain and pipe blockages along the way. Yard waste contains nitrogen and phosphorus and can contribute to nutrient overloads. Proper fertilization, mulching and composting are ways to reduce this stormwater pollutant. Make sure to clear storm drains from yard waste to avoid flooding. You may place yard waste out for bulk pick-up or drop it off at the Waste Transfer Station on weekends.
It is against Coral Springs Ordinance 250835 B (4) to blow, sweep or dump grass clippings and yard waste into streets, ditches, driveways, or storm drains. Learn about our "Don't Blow It!" Campaign.
Litter – Litter can easily be moved and broken down by wind and water during rain events and can block storm drains causing local flooding issues. Waste items like broken down plastic can sometimes be mistaken for food by local wildlife and can bio-accumulate up the food chain. You can help with littering issues by making sure all trash is bagged, bin lids are secure and not overflowing, spreading litter awareness and participating in local clean-ups like the Keep Coral Springs Beautiful Clean up. Consider creative way you can reduce waste.
Pet waste – Bacteria and parasites found in pet waste can cause health problems for humans and other animals when washed downstream. Pet waste contains nutrients that can encourage algal blooms. Dog poop that is left on the grounds doesn’t decompose very fast and it’s too acidic to be used as fertilizer. Taking care of your pet waste is easy – bag it and toss it!
Pesticides/Herbicides – Excess herbicides can cause harm to native plant populations that help stabilize stream banks and filter water. When pesticides are washed downstream, they can end up harming “non-pest” insects that are important water quality indicators. If you use pesticides and herbicides in your lawn/garden, be sure to apply them when there is NOT a chance of rain.
Car Washing – Oils and other car fluids contain harmful metals and chemicals that can pollute water. Soaps used to wash cars also contain ingredients known to harm aquatic wildlife. Clean up oil/fluid spills when doing car maintenance or get these things done at a shop. Wash your car on your lawn instead of the driveway/street or go to a local car wash.
Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) – HHW includes cleaning agents, oil-based paints, cooking grease and medicines. DO NOT flush HHWs down the toilet or dump down a storm drain. Household Hazardous Waste may be dropped off at one of our special events.