Environmental Programs -
Stormwater

The Federal Stormwater regulations require reduction of pollutants in stormwater discharges to the maximum extent practicable. These regulations apply to construction sites, industrial facilities and municipalities such as the City of Mesa.

The City of Mesa operates under a Municipal Permit issued in 1997 by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The permit requires that various best management practices (BMP) be implemented to reduce stormwater pollutants. Examples of BMPs are conducting household hazardous waste collection events, inspecting retention basins for pollutants, disseminating public education materials and screening major stormwater discharge points for pollutants. In addition, Mesa has a Stormwater Pollution Control Ordinance (Title 8, Chapter 5 of the Mesa City Code) that prohibits most discharges (direct or indirect) to the storm sewer system.

Environmental Impacts to the Stormwater System

The City of Mesa's storm sewer system is designed to collect storm event runoff and drain it directly into the Salt and Gila rivers without treatment. The purpose of this collection system is to protect against flooding and water damage. This storm sewer system is completely separate from the sanitary sewer system, which is designed to capture and treat wastewater from sinks, toilets and other sources.

Stormwater contamination occurs when chemicals, debris, and waste enter the storm sewer system. These materials can enter into the system through:

• the illegal dumping of products or waste into the storm sewer system and/or curb and gutter
• the over application of pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers 
• leaking fluids from motor vehicles

Once these hazardous materials enter the storm sewer system they drain to our rivers where they can:

• harm fish and wildlife
• promote weed growth
• create stagnant pools that breed disease carrying pests
• inhibit the natural beauty and safety of our outdoor recreation sites

You can help to protect the City’s storm sewer system by:

• Picking up any spills of automotive fluids, pesticides, fertilizers or other materials on your property immediately so they do not reach the curb and gutter
• Use only the amount of pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers that is necessary to do the job
• Dispose of empty containers of automotive fluids, pesticides, fertilizers or other materials properly by enclosing them in a plastic bag before putting them in the trash
• Bring household hazardous waste to one of the City’s scheduled Household Harzardous Waste Events.

If you have an environmental complaint or concern, please call or email.