Port Coquitlam urges residents to keep pollutants out of storm drains

The City of Port Coquitlam is reminding residents that storm drains are for rainwater only and send runoff directly to local streams, rivers and eventually the ocean without treatment.

Soap, oil, chemicals, pet waste and litter can harm fish and wildlife, damage habitat and reduce water quality, the city says. Residents are asked to put pet waste in the garbage, never flush cat litter, and avoid washing vehicles where soapy runoff can enter drains. The city recommends washing vehicles on grass or using commercial car washes that treat wastewater.

Motor oil, paint, bleach and other hazardous products should be taken to designated collection sites rather than poured into any drain. Pool and hot-tub water should be discharged to a sanitary sewer connection, not a storm drain, and food fats, oils and grease should not go into storm drains or catch basins.

The city is supporting the Yellow Fish Road education program, whose fish symbols near drains remind people that the drains lead to fish habitat. Community groups and schools interested in DFO-led initiatives can contact Public Works at [email protected].

Residents can use the Sort & Report app at portcoquitlam.ca/sortreport, the online reporting service at portcoquitlam.ca/report, or call 604-927-3111 to report concerns. Polluting streams, creeks or drains is prohibited under city bylaws and may lead to fines and other environmental liability. More information is available at portcoquitlam.ca/watercourse.