FREQUENTLY
ASKED QUESTIONS
General Questions
What is stormwater pollution?
What are catch basins or storm drain inlets?
Are sewers and storm drains the same thing?
Do drain inlets get cleaned out?
Why doesn't the City clean out all of the storm drain inlets right before a storm?
Why doesn't the City install filters or screens in front of drain inlets?
What types of pollutants are found in the storm drain system?
Illegal Dumping
What is the City of Ripon doing about illegal dumping?
I see people dumping their used oil into storm drains all the time. What can I do?
What should I do if I see a neighbor, or know someone who's throwing trash into a storm drain?
I have some paint/thinners/chemicals/ at home that need to be disposed of. Where can I take these?
What is the fine/penalty for illegal dumping?
How can I be environmentally responsible when washing my car?
Yard clippings and leaves are natural, so they don't cause any problems, right?
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No 1
What is stormwater pollution?
Runoff from rainstorms is called stormwater. Stormwater becomes polluted by flowing over dirty surfaces, such as parking lots. Stormwater pollution also takes place when someone dumps materials, like oil or paint, directly into the storm drain. Polluted stormwater flows without treatment directly to creeks and rivers, where it can be harmful to aquatic life.
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No 2
What are catch basins or storm drain inlets?
Catch basins and storm drain inlets are curbside receptacles whose sole function is to catch surface water runoff from rainfall and deliver it to the storm drain system, where it's eventually delivered to local creeks and rivers.
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No 3
Are sewers and storm drains the same thing?
No. Storm drains and sanitary sewers have two distinct functions. Storm drains are intended to collect and transport runoff from rainfall. Storm drain systems do not remove pollutants from water before it is discharged into streams and rivers. These are typically the drains found in streets and in parking lots. Sanitary sewers collect wastewater from indoor plumbing such as toilets, sinks, washing machines and floor drains and take it to a sewage treatment plant. The treatment plant removes many pollutants from wastewater before it is discharged to the river.
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No 4
Do drain inlets get cleaned out?
Yes. City crews maintain approximately 50 miles of storm drain pipelines citywide.
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No 5
Why doesn't the City clean out all of the storm drain inlets right before a storm?
There are too many for City crews to clean in a short period of time. Storm drain inlets are maintained on a year-round schedule.
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No 6
Why doesn't the City install filters or screens in front of drain inlets?
It sounds like a good idea, but during a rainstorm, trash is quickly swept into drain inlets. Any screen or filtration device placed in front of the drain inlet would cause trash to accumulate and clog the grate, preventing proper drainage and potentially creating a flood hazard. City maintenance crews would be unable to keep up with cleaning these devices potentially creating flooding
hazards. However there are new technologies being developed in the form of filtration or screening devices to be installed and inserted inside catch basins. The Stormwater Program Engineering groups are always evaluating these new technologies for possible future use.
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No 7
What types of pollutants are found in the storm drain system?
Heavy metals, paint thinner and paint products, motor oil, pesticides, fertilizers, human and animal feces, antifreeze, and dead animals - are but a few examples of the pollutants typically found in the storm drain system.
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No 8
What is the City of Ripon doing about illegal dumping?
The City's Stormwater Ordinance makes it an environmental crime to knowingly dump or discharge hazardous materials into the storm drain system and the City can impose fines on violators when they are caught.
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No. 9
I see people dumping their used oil into storm drains all the time. What can I do?
Dumping used oil into the storm drain system is illegal. One gallon of motor oil can pollute 250,000 gallons of drinking water. To report the problem, call 599-2108. All city residents can recycle their used, uncontaminated motor oil free. Contact the Public Works Department at 599-2151 or the Police Department at 599-2102.
You may also contact Andy Varian at City Hall by e-mail at
avarian@cityofripon.org to
report any illicit discharges into our stormwater drains.
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No 10
What should I do if I see a neighbor, or know someone who's throwing trash into a storm drain?
Storm drains are designed for catching rain water only. Dumping trash or other pollutants down storm drain inlets is illegal and is a violation of the Federal Clean Water Act of 1972 as well as the City of Ripon's Stormwater Ordinance. If a neighbor is disposing of trash in the storm drain, they may not understand that drain inlets directly connect to our creeks and rivers. If you have an amicable relationship with your neighbor, it may be just a matter of informing and making them aware of its environmental impact. If it is someone who you feel is knowingly violating and repeatedly dumping into storm drains, please call the City of Ripon 599-2108.
You may also contact Andy Varian at City Hall by e-mail at
avarian@cityofripon.org to
report any illicit discharges into our stormwater drains.
You do not need to give your name.
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chemicals
I have some paint/thinners/chemicals/batteries at home that need to be disposed of. Where can I take these?
Paints, paint thinner, chemicals and batteries are all household hazardous waste that need proper disposal.
If you are a resident or business owner living within San Joaquin County you can take your household hazardous waste materials to a Household Hazardous Waste event, or to the Hazardous Waste Facility at 7850 South R.A. Bridgeford Street off of Dixon Drive at the Stockton Airport
Call (800) 449-4840 for drop off times, locations, or for more information.
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No. 11
What is the fine/penalty for illegal dumping?
Fines and penalties are based on type and amount of illegally discharged material. Each violation can be based on, but not limited to, a cost recovery fine and/or enforcement fine.
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No. 12
How can I be environmentally responsible when washing my car?
The best place to wash your car is over a lawn or gravel area. Use biodegradable soaps to wash your vehicle, using as little water as possible. Shut off water while washing your car, or use a trigger nozzle to stop the flow. Remember not to leave your car on the lawn. We would highly recommend going to a full or self service car wash since these facilities use recycled water.
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No 13
Yard clippings and leaves are natural, so they don't cause any problems, right?
Grass, leaves and yard clippings that are repeatedly swept into catch basins can clog the drain, causing flooding and the potential for becoming a breeding ground for rodents and insects. Additionally, when grass and leaves decompose they encourage excessive growth of algae which can deprive fish of adequate oxygen.
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No. 14
Household Hazardous Waste
San Joaquin County has opened a permanent collection facility for Household Hazardous Waste. It is located at 7850 South R.A. Bridgeford St off of Dixon Drive at the Stockton airport. It is open Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 9:00am until 3:00pm. They will accept paint, oil, antifreeze, pool chemicals, pesticides, household cleaners, transmission fluid, solvents, varnishes and medical waste. There is no charge for disposal.
Never mix any chemicals. Make sure that all liquids are in sealed containers. Transport materials in the trunk of your car or bed of your pick up truck....not in the cab. Do not transport more than 15 gallons at one time. For further information you can contact the County Solid Waste Division at 468-3066
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No. 15
CONSTRUCTION
Notice to Construction Permittees
Background:
Storm water discharges associated with construction activity are a potential source of pollutants. The most common pollutant associated with construction activity is sediment. Sediment and other construction related wastes could degrade water quality in creeks, rivers, lakes, and other water bodies. In 1992, the State Water Resources Control Board adopted a statewide General Permit for all storm water discharges associated with construction activity that disturbs five or more acres of land. The General Permit is intended to ensure that construction activity does not impact water quality.
Modifications have been made to the General Permit that are effective March 10, 2003. On March 10, 2003 all construction sites disturbing one or more acres of land will be required to obtain permit coverage.
FAQS
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STORM WATER PERMIT
REQUIREMENT FAQs
No.
16
How do I know if I need this permit?
Construction activity resulting in a land disturbance of one acre or more, or less than one acre but part of a larger common plan of development or sale must obtain a Construction Activities Storm Water General Permit (General Permit). Construction activity includes clearing, grading, excavation, stockpiling, and reconstruction of existing facilities involving removal and replacement of soil. Construction activity does not include routine maintenance such as, maintenance of original line and grade, hydraulic capacity, or original purpose of the facility.
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Who should apply, and who is the proper signatory?
The General Permit currently states the owner of the land where the construction activity is occurring is responsible for obtaining a permit and for signing the certification statement on the Notice of Intent (NOI). Language in Section C 9: "Signatory Requirements" allows a duly authorized representative to sign documents including the
NOI.
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18
What are the fees associated with the Permit?
The fee is calculated by the acre. Contact the state for a current fee schedule.
You will continue to receive an annual invoice until your project is complete and a Notice of Termination is submitted and approved by the Regional Water Quality Control Board.
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Where do I send the NOI application?
Mail a complete NOI package including: the original signed NOI, site map, and appropriate fee to the State Water Resources Control Board at the following address:
Regular Mail:
State Water Resources Control Board
Division of Water Quality
Attn: Storm Water Section
PO Box 1977
Sacramento, CA 95812-1977
Fedex or other overnight mail:
State Water Resources Control Board
Division of Water Quality
Attn: Storm Water Section
1001 I Street
Sacramento, CA 95814
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No
20
Who should I contact if I have questions?
If you have any questions concerning the General Permit please email the State Water Resources Control Board at
stormwater@swrcb.ca.gov or call (916) 341-5537.
California Regional Water Quality Control Board Central Valley Region
http://www.swrcb.ca.gov/rwqcb5/
Regional Water Quality Control Board
Phone Number: (916) 464-3291
Information is also available at the SWRCB web site:
http://www.swrcb.ca.gov/stormwtr/construction.html
Construction Best Management Practice Manual This BMP manual, created by the California Stormwater Quality Association (CASQA), has a Microsoft Word Document Template that you can download to create your Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan.
New Development and Redevelopment Best Management Practice Manual This BMP manual was also created by CASQA. It is an excellent tool for project planning and design.
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No.
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GLOSSARY OF TERMS AND
ACRONYMS
Terms
A - B - C - D - E -
F - G - H - I
- J - K - L - M - N - O - P
- Q - R -
S - T - U - V - W
Aquifer: Water bearing layer of the earth's crust.
Best Management Practices (BMPs): Good housekeeping solutions that include the proper handling, storage and disposal of toxic materials to prevent stormwater pollution. BMPs can include source controls (controls that keep pollutants out of runoff) and treatment controls (controls that remove pollutants from runoff).
Catch Basin: (also known as a storm drain): Box-like underground concrete structure with openings in curbs and gutters designed to collect runoff from streets and pavements.
Conduit:
Any channel or pipe for directing the flow of water.
Construction General Permit: An NPDES permit issued by the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) for the discharge of stormwater associated with construction activity from soil disturbance of five (5) acres or more.
Conveyance System: Any channel or pipe for collecting and directing stormwater.
Culvert: A channel or a large diameter pipe that crosses under a road, sidewalk, etc.
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Detention Basin: Reservoir designed to temporarily store stormwater.
Delta: A delta is usually a triangular alluvial deposit at the mouth of the river. The San Joaquin Delta is the convergence of the Sacramento River and the northbound San Joaquin River which creates a 700-mile maze of waterways. The San Joaquin Delta provides the largest inland port in the state of California.
Discharge: A release or flow of stormwater or other substance from a conveyance system or storage container.
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Erosion: The wearing away of land surface by wind or water. Erosion occurs naturally from weather. Runoff can be intensified by land-clearing practices.
Estuary: Body of water at the lower end of a river which is connected to the ocean and is semi-enclosed by land. In an estuary, sea water is measurably diluted by freshwater from the land.
Fertilizer: A substance, such as manure or chemical mixtures, that is used to make soil more fertile.
First Flush: The first big rain after an extended dry period (usually summer) which flushes out the accumulated pollutants in the storm drain system and carries them straight to local waterways.
Flood Control Channel: Open waterway that is designed to carry large amounts of rain water. These structures are often lined with concrete to help control flood waters.
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Grading: The cutting and/or filling of the land surface to a desired shape or elevation.
Gutter: Area formed by the curb and the street. Helps prevent flooding by channeling runoff to storm drains.
Hazardous Substance: Any material that poses a threat to human health and/or the environment. Typical hazardous substances are toxic, corrosive, ignitable, explosive or chemically reactive.
Hazardous Waste: By-products of society that can pose a substantial or potential hazard to human health or the environment when improperly managed. Possesses at least one of four characteristics (flammable, corrosivity, reactivity or toxicity) or appears on special Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) lists.
Herbicide: A chemical substance used to kill unwanted plants and weeds.
Household Hazardous Waste: Common, every-day products that people use in and around their homes (including paint, paint thinner, herbicides and pesticides) that, due to their chemical nature, can be hazardous if not properly disposed.
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Illicit Connection: Any connection to a storm drain system for which there is no permit or that is used for an illegal discharge. This includes, but is not limited to: (1) any connections that convey sewage, process wastewater and wash water to the storm drain system, (2) all connections from indoor drains or sinks, and (3) all unapproved, undocumented drains from loading docks and hazardous materials handling areas directly connected to the storm drain system.
Illegal Discharge: Any non-stormwater flow either intentionally or inadvertently discharged to the City's storm drainage system. This does not include discharges authorized by an NPDES permit or discharges resulting from fire fighting activities.
Impervious Surface: Paved surface or other land cover that does not allow water to percolate into the ground.
Industrial General Permit: An NPDES permit issued by the State Water Resource Control Board for the discharge of stormwater associated with industrial activity.
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Metals: Elements such as mercury, lead, zinc, nickel and cadmium that are of environmental concern because they can accumulate in the food chain and, in high enough concentrations, can be hazardous to the environment and the public's health.
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES):
Non-Point Source Pollution: Pollution which does not come from a single, identifiable point, but from a number of points that are spread out and difficult to identify and control, such as residential neighborhoods.
Non-Stormwater Discharge: Any discharge to surface waters, storm drains, or any other stormwater drainage facility that is not composed entirely of stormwater. Examples include process wastewater, non-contact cooling waters and sanitary wastewater.
Non-Stormwater Control Measure: Low technology, low cost activities, procedures or management practices designed to prevent pollutants associated with site functions and activities from being discharged with stormwater runoff. Examples include good housekeeping practices, employee training, standard operating practices, inventory control measures, etc.
Notice of Intent (NOI): A formal notice to State Water Resources Control Board submitted by the owner/developer that a construction project is about to begin. The NOI provides information on the owner, location, type of project, and certifies that the permittee will comply with the conditions of the construction general permit.
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Outfall: Opening at the end of a storm drain system that allows water to flow into a channel, lake, river, bay or ocean.
Percolation: Process where surface waters are absorbed through the soil into ground water.
Pesticide: A chemical or biological agent used to kill pests.
Point Source: Any discernible, confined and discrete conveyance from which pollutants are or may be discharged. Examples include pipes, ditches, channels, tunnels, conduits, wells, container collection systems or vessels.
Point Source Pollution: Pollution from a single identifiable source such as a smoke stack or a sewage treatment plant.
Pollutant: Generally are substances introduced into the environment that adversely affect the usefulness of a resource.
Pollution: A human or naturally caused change in physical, chemical, or biological conditions that result in an undesirable effect on the environment.
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Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB): State agency responsible for administration and enforcement of the NPDES stormwater permits. In the Stockton area, the local Regional Board is the Central Valley Regional Water Quality Control Board, Region 5.
Retention: The storage of stormwater to prevent it from leaving the development site; may be temporary or permanent.
Runoff: Water originating from rainfall and other precipitation (such as sprinklers) that is found in drainage facilities, rivers, streams, springs, seeps, ponds, lakes, wetlands and shallow groundwater.
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Sanitary Sewer System: A network of pipelines carrying sewage to a wastewater treatment facility. In Stockton, storm drains are separate pipeline systems and are not connected to sanitary sewers.
Secondary Containment: Structures, usually dikes or berms, surrounding tanks or other storage containers and designed to catch spilled material from the storage containers.
Sediment: Finely divided solids usually derived from rocks, soil, or biological materials which are carried and deposited by stormwater.
Sedimentation: The process of depositing soil particles, clays, sands, or other sediments that were picked up by runoff.
Slough: An inlet on a river.
Source Control: Action to prevent pollution at its origin.
Storm Drains (also known as drop inlet or drain inlet): Grated or unguarded opening in or at the side of the curb or gutter into which runoff flows.
Storm Drain System: A vast network of underground pipes and open channels designed for flood control, which discharges directly into local waterways.
Stormwater: Rain and water from irrigation, garden hoses, or other activities that can wash materials such as motor oil, paints, fertilizers, and pesticides off of streets, parking lots, yards and landscapes and into the storm drain system.
Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP): In compliance with the State General Permit, the SWPPP is a document which identifies sources and activities at a particular facility that may contribute pollutants to stormwater and commits the operator to specific control measures and time frames to prevent or treat such pollutants.
Stream: Small natural waterway originating from underground springs, snow melt, runoff, or other natural sources which drains to lakes, rivers, channels or oceans.
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Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL): A calculation of the maximum amount of a pollutant that a water body can receive and still meet water quality standards. It is the sum of the allowable loads of a single pollutant from all contributing point and non-point sources.
Treatment Control: Treatment methods to remove pollutants from stormwater.
Watershed: Geographic area of land from which all runoff drains into a single waterway.
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ACRONYMS
BMP: Best Management Practice
CEQA: California Environmental Quality Act
CWA: Clean Water Act
EPA: Environmental Protection Agency
HHW: Household Hazardous Waste
NOI: Notice of Intent
NOT: Notice of Termination
NPDES: National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
NPS: Non Point Source
RWQCB: Regional Water Quality Control Board
SWPPP: Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan
SWRCB: State Water Resources Control Board
TMDL: Total Maximum Daily Load
WQA: Water Quality Act
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tormwater Pollution Prevention
Responsive
