Stormwater Quality for Building and Remodeling

The storm drainage system is designed to collect stormwater - rain and snowmelt - and release it directly into Windsor waterways. Pollutants are transported in stormwater as rain and snowmelt travel across surfaces such as lawns, roads and parking lots, picking up substances such as fertilizers, pesticides, oil and sediments before entering rivers and streams. Contaminants that enter our waterways degrade the quality of drinking water sources for people downstream, our own recreation areas, and the quality of fish and wildlife habitats. 

Sediment is the biggest pollutant of concern during construction due to the removal of soil cover. Heavy metals and nutrients attach to soil particles that, if allowed to reach the storm drain, degrade water quality. Sediment can also smother fish and active spawning areas, lead to dredging costs from excess material, and contribute to flooding problems as a result of deceased channel capacity. In addition to sediment, there are many chemicals of concern including paint, mortar, and trash.

Best Management Practices for Building and Remodeling

Use soil erosion and sediment control practices
  • Minimize removal of existing vegetation.
  • Divert runoff around disturbed soils.
  • Reduce traffic on disturbed soils.
  • Request contractors park on paved areas, whenever possible.
  • Revegetate as soon as possible using native seed mix, mulch and tackifier.
  • Frequently sweep streets and sidewalks of soil back onto the site.
  • Construct a gravel stabilized site access.
  • Sweep paved surfaces rather than hosing down or using blowers.
  • Use sediment control devices including silt fence, inlet protection, sediment basins, diversion ditches, and swales to minimize soil that leaves the site.
Maintain good housekeeping practices while work is underway
  • Properly store and dispose of materials such as paints and solvents.
  • Properly contain and dispose of wash water, sweepings and sediments.
  • Use non-toxic substitutes for chemicals when possible.
  • Inspect vehicles and equipment for leaks regularly and fix problems as soon as possible.
  • Keep a clean up kit of safety equipment and absorbent material, such as kitty litter or sand, in case a spill does occur. Never hose down an area to clean up after a spill.
  • Control litter by sweeping and picking up trash on a regular basis.
  • Cover dumpsters and replace leaking ones.