San Diego Implements Runoff Reduction Plan

The San Diego City Council has agreed to invest $320 million over the next five years in preventing urban runoff from reaching local water bodies. Council members voted unanimously in favor of the plan, which is meant to help the city comply with its municipal storm water permit, granted by the San Diego Regional Water Quality Control Board.

The plan prohibits residents from washing cars in nondesignated areas, mandates the proper disposal of hazardous materials and calls for the elimination of irrigation runoff from yards and landscaping. It also requires pet owners pick up pet waste, fire system discharges be contained, storm drains and trash collection areas be better maintained and parking lots and streets undergo regular sweeping.

Education is also a key component in the runoff reduction plan. City staff will post signs at storm drain locations, label hazardous materials containers and receive storm water pollution prevention training.

Storm drain fees from San Diego's general fund will support the ongoing project's $320 price tag.

Source: Fox6 San Diego