Pollution Prevention Services is divided into two work divisions: Environmental Compliance and Environmental Investigations.

Environmental Compliance

Spill Protection and Citizen Response

The Spill Protection-Citizen Response team investigates spills, slicks and suspicious discharges 24 hours a day. Call 503-823-7180 or email BESDutyOfficer@portlandoregon.gov when you see pollution that threatens rivers and streams. Click here for more information about the Spill Protection and Citizen Response group.

Underground Injection Control (UIC)

The city has developed the Underground Injection Control (UIC) program to comply with state rules and with the Water Pollution Control Facilities (WPCF) permit issued to the City in 2005.  Click here for more information about the UIC program.

NPDES MS4

The City of Portland and Port of Portland both operate storm sewer systems within Portland's urban services boundary and hold a joint stormwater permit issued by DEQ in accordance with federal Clean Water Act regulations. Click here for more information about the City NPDES MS4 Permit.

Pollution Prevention Programs and EcoBiz Certification

Pollution Prevention Business Projects uses incentives rather than a traditional permitting process to control the discharge of industrial pollutants to the Portland sewer system. The staff also provides businesses with pollution prevention technical assistance. Click here for more information about Pollution Prevention Business Projects.

Building Plan and Development Review

The Pollution Prevention Projects Section reviews building and development plans to facilitate industrial, commercial, and site development projects. Click Here for more information about Building Plan and Development Review.

Industrial Stormwater

Industrial Stormwater group programs control pollutants in stormwater runoff at their source, and protect the storm sewer system from non-stormwater discharges. The group works with facilities to implement best management practices that reduce stormwater pollution. Click here for more information about the Industrial Stormwater group.

Industrial Pretreatment

The Industrial Pretreatment Section issues wastewater discharge permits to industries based on their wastewater characteristics or amount of discharge. The section also inspects industries regularly, and ensures city compliance with federal, state and local discharge regulations. Click here for more information about Industrial Pretreatment. 

Environmental Investigations

Laboratory Services

Laboratory chemists and technicians analyze treatment plant effluent, industrial waste discharges, stormwater, rivers and streams, and soil excavated during construction projects. Click here for more information about laboratory services.

Field Operations

The Field Operations Section provides environmental sampling and monitoring services for a wide range of city projects. Click here for more information about Field Operations.

Investigations and Monitoring Section

The Investigations and Monitoring Section (IMS) develops and manages environmental monitoring projects for the bureau and other outside agencies. Click here for more information about Investigations and Monitoring.

Data Acquisition and Management

The Data Acquisition and Management Section maintains a citywide system of rain gauges, flow monitors and pump stations for the operation, maintenance, repair, and design of city wastewater and stormwater collection systems, and for notification and compliance with federal and state regulations. Click here for more information about Data Acquisition and Management.

Coordinated Site Analysis Program

The Bureau of Environmental Services Coordinated Site Analysis Program investigates City properties and right-of-ways for contaminated media, analyzes contamination, and coordinates the safe cleanup and disposal of contaminated media. For more information about the CSA Program, please call (503) 823-7881.