Show All Answers

1. Is stormwater treated?

No. During a storm event, water runoff is carried by the City's storm drain, which drains to the Jordan River. Contaminated stormwater receives no treatment because of the sheer volume of runoff.

2. Is there a difference between the stormwater system and the sanitary sewer system?

Yes. The sanitary sewer system and the stormwater system are two completely separate systems. The sewer (wastewater) system routes all household wastewater into a water treatment facility. The stormwater system, on the other hand, routes rainwater off the streets and into the Jordan River.

3. What are the effects of stormwater pollution?

• Health: Stormwater pollution can pose a serious health risk due to pesticides, bacteria, and chemicals that are washed from our city streets, parking lots, and drainages.
• Environment: Plants and animals living along the waterways where stormwater discharges may become sick or die from contact with contaminated stormwater.
• Neighborhoods: Clogged catch basins significantly decrease the quality of life in many neighborhoods throughout Salt Lake County. These "nests" of trash and debris can attract rats and cockroaches, create foul odors, and clog the storm drain system affecting neighborhood aesthetics and property values, and can even cause local flooding.

4. What Should I do if I see someone littering in the storm drain or gutter?

Please call our 24-hour hotline at 801-412-3245  to report any littering or dumping in the storm drain or gutter.