Australian City Implements Residential Storm Water Fine

Residents of Hastings, Victoria, Australia, now face a minimum $750 on-the-spot fine for allowing pollutants to enter the local storm water system via drains. In light of consistently reported incidents of storm water pollution, the Port Macquarie-Hastings Council has issued the pollution warning to protect the Hastings River and local creeks and beaches.

"Waste of any kind should not be washed into or thrown down the drain," said Matt Rogers, the council's natural resources manager. "Residents shouldn't be blowing their grass clippings from their lawns straight into the drains on the street. Nor should you be washing wheelie bins and animal cages and pouring the wash residue straight into the storm water system. We are urging residents to be mindful of whether their actions on their property may be contributing to storm water pollution."

The city has suggested some simple ways for residents to help keep their local waterways clean: putting litter in bins; sweeping up leaves and grass clippings from driveways and gutters before they wash away; using a broom instead of a hose for outdoor cleaning; picking up after pets; washing paintbrushes in a container and not over a drain; and washing cars on lawns while using minimal water and detergent.

Source: Wauchope Gazette