Discharges to the Storm Sewer System

Regulations regarding discharges to the storm sewer system can be complex and confusing. In addition to stormwater, some non-stormwater discharges can enter the storm sewer system. Some of these are allowed outright such as foundation drains, while others may require city authorization and implementation of Best Management Practices.

Examples of non-stormwater discharges to the storm sewer system that require authorization from the City include trench or groundwater pumped from a construction site or discharging groundwater from well development. The city generally approves these types of discharges with a Discharge Authorization or through the Batch Discharge process.

For More Information

Call the Pollution Prevention Services group at 503-823-5547 if you have questions about regulatory requirements for discharges to the storm sewer system, or want to know how to safely dispose of stormwater or other water or wastewater to the storm or sanitary sewer system.