Storm water runoff is a major concern for cities around the world, including San Diego. When it rains, water flows off of rooftops, roads, parking lots, and other surfaces, carrying with it pollutants such as oil, grease, pesticides, and litter. This polluted water then enters our storm drains and ultimately ends up in our rivers, creeks, bays, and the ocean.
The City of San Diego is committed to protecting its waterways and has implemented various measures to prevent storm water pollution. One of these measures is the Storm Water Code Enforcement program, which focuses on enforcing municipal codes related to storm water management.
The Off Site Enforcement System is a key component of the Storm Water Code Enforcement program. This system monitors construction sites, industrial facilities, and other businesses that have the potential to generate storm water pollution. The system uses a variety of methods to ensure compliance with storm water regulations, including inspections, investigations, and enforcement actions.
One of the primary goals of the Off Site Enforcement System is to educate businesses and residents about the importance of preventing storm water pollution. The system provides informational materials and training sessions to help people understand the impact of their actions on the environment and how they can take steps to reduce pollution.
Another important function of the Off Site Enforcement System is to conduct inspections of businesses and construction sites to ensure that they are properly managing their storm water. The system looks for potential sources of pollution such as uncovered dumpsters, uncovered material storage, and improperly stored hazardous materials. If violations are found, the system can issue citations or take other enforcement actions.
The Off Site Enforcement System is just one piece of the City’s overall strategy for preventing storm water pollution. The City also provides free and low-cost resources to residents and businesses to help them manage their storm water, including rain barrels, rain gardens, and permeable pavement. In addition, the City has implemented measures to reduce pollution from municipal sources, such as street sweeping, litter removal, and regular maintenance of storm drains.
Overall, the City of San Diego is committed to protecting its waterways and ensuring a healthy environment for its residents and visitors. The Storm Water Code Enforcement program, including the Off Site Enforcement System, is a crucial part of this effort. By working together, we can all play a role in preventing storm water pollution and preserving our natural resources for future generations.