Show All Answers

1. How do I report a spill?

To report a spill or possible water pollution situation, call 425-837-3470. At any time, if you need to report emergency concerns that involve imminent danger to people or the environment, call 911.

2. Why is pet waste a problem?

Stream monitoring in Issaquah has detected elevated levels fecal coliform concentrations, exceeding state water quality standards on a regular basis during rainfall events. Fecal coliform comes from human waste, pet waste and wildlife.

To keep our waters clean, pet owners should pick up their pet waste from paved and landscaped areas and dispose of it properly so that is does not wash off into storm drains, lakes and rivers.

Follow these pet waste tips:
• Carry a plastic bag with you on walks.
• Pick up pet waste and dispose of it in the trash.
• Pet waste does not go in yard waste bin.
• Do not dispose of pet waste in native growth and vegetative areas.

3. What is a water quality violation?

By definition of the Issaquah Municipal Code, with very few exceptions, the only discharge allowed to a public or private storm system is rainwater. Water quality violations can range from minor incidents, such as car washing, to large spills from an overturned vehicle. Water quality violations can also come from multiple sources, including roadways, underground problems, failing septic systems or hazardous materials stored outside and uncovered from the rain.

4. What are safer products to use in my home that are better for the environment?

The Washington Department of Ecology has shared recommendations for a healthy home, safer household products to purchase. 

5. What are prohibited discharges?

Anything other than rainwater that enters a storm drain or stream is considered a prohibited discharge, subject to enforcement and penalties. This includes:
• Illicit connections to storm drainage systems or surface water, including sewers, process water, sump overflows, building drains, or other similar connections.
• Chemicals, petroleum products, paints, detergents, solvents, or other toxic materials.
• Trash, food waste, debris, animal waste, street cleaning waste or similar refuse.
• Unstabilized soils, pavement debris, or materials that can erode in an uncontrolled manner into drainage or surface water.
• Lawn clippings, leaves, branches, or other landscaping materials and yard debris deposited in a drainage facility or stream channel.
• Turbid water from construction site runoff, dewatering or other excavation activities.