Frequently Asked Questions

Stormwater is the water that runs off the land surface when it rains or when snow melts. It enters the Town's storm drain system and is transported to waterbodies (streams, rivers, wetlands, and the ocean).

Stormwater typically contains a number of pollutants, such as oil, grease, soapy water, sand, and dirt from roads and parking lots, pesticides and fertilizers from lawns, sediment from construction sites, and trash such as cigarette butts, wrappers, and plastic bottles. When these pollutants enter water bodies, they can pollute the beaches, hinder recreation, and harm aquatic and other wildlife habitats. Improperly managed stormwater runoff can result in flooding and erosion, too.

On "natural" land with vegetation, stormwater usually infiltrates into the ground or is lost to evaporation. Impervious surfaces like streets, parking lots, and rooftops prevent rain and snowmelt from soaking into the ground and therefore create extra runoff.

During rain, pollutants are flushed into the Town's stormwater collection system. Little things can make a big difference. The following is a brief list of good household practices:

• Do not dump anything in a storm drain. Oil, soapy water, trash, cigarette butts, and anything else dumped down a catch basin will end up in a local waterbody, on the beach, or in the ocean.
• Use fertilizers sparingly (free compost from the Town is a great alternative to fertilizers) and avoid using them before a rain storm.
• Sweep up driveways and sidewalks. Sweeping is better than washing.
• Pick up pet waste
• Plant native and drought-tolerant species, consider grass
• Care for your yard, vegetate bare spots
• Consider washing your car at a car wash
• Report illegal dumping: If you see someone dumping pollution into the storm drain or a local waterbody, please contact the DPW at 617-846-1341.