Swimming Pool Discharge

Pollution Prevention and Good Housekeeping for Swimming Pool Discharges

In order to protect storm drains, channels, creeks and bays, guidelines have been established regarding the discharge of pool water in the City of Corona. Regulatory issues regarding the discharge of pool water and the two methods by which it may be discharged are explained below.

Acceptable and Preferred Method of Disposal

Before you plan to drain your pool, please contact City of Corona Public Works Department at (951) 736-2266. An Inspector will visit your home to test the level of chlorination in your pool water. Based on the testing and facilities in the area, the Inspector will direct you to discharge to either the storm drain or sewer. Sewer discharge may include pumping to your in-ground sewer clean-out if safe and accessible.
Where the discharge of pool water to the sanitary sewer is not feasible, federal law allows the release of dechlorinated swimming pool water into the storm drain system. In general, the guideline for such releases requires pool owners to ensure that all the following criteria are met:

• The residual chlorine does not exceed 0.1 mg/l (parts per million);
• The pH is between 6.5 and 8.5;
• The water is free of any unusual coloration;
• There is no discharge of filter media;
• There is no discharge of acid cleaning wastes;
• The discharge will not cause erosion; and
• The discharge will not cause transport of pollutants such as: motor oil; pet waste; trash and other debris into the storm drain system.

The Inspector will advise the best method based on each situation. No permit is necessary; however you must have the water tested before discharging.

How can I find out if I'm within the standards?

Compliance with this guidance for pH can be verified using a pool testing kit. If high levels of chlorine are found, either purchasing and administering dechlorination chemicals or simply not adding additional chlorine can cure the situation in a few days. If this occurs, another testing by a City Inspector is necessary prior to discharge; and you must have the water tested by the Public Works Department before you may discharge your pool.

Why is this procedure necessary?

By complying with these guidelines set forth by the City, you are making a significant contribution toward keeping pollutants out of Riverside County's creeks, streams and receiving waters and helping to protect organisms that are sensitive to pool chemicals.

Home Maintenance 

• Buy household products such as cleaners and furniture polish labeled "non-toxic". Purchase smaller quantities to control the amount that remains after use.
• Properly use and store all toxic products, including cleaners, solvents and paints. Use up all paint cleaners and other products or share leftovers with a neighbor.
• Take household hazardous materials and containers to a hazardous material collection center.
• Click here to see information regarding Corona's local HHW events.
• For any questions regarding future HHW events, please call 800-304-2226 or 951-486-3200, or click here.
• Use kitty litter or other absorbent materials to clean spills. Depending on the substance, dispose absorbents in the trash can or at a hazardous materials collection center.
• Rinse water based paint brushes in the sink. Filter and reuse paint thinner or brush cleaners. Dispose of used thinner, oil and latex paint at a hazardous materials collection center.
• Recycle reusable materials. Throw litter into trash cans and keep cans tightly covered to prevent foraging by animals.
• Control erosion at construction and landscape sites to prevent dirt and debris from entering storm drains.

Lawn and Garden

• Use pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers in accordance with label gardener instructions. Do not apply before rain and dispose leftovers at a hazardous materials collection center.
• Use a broom rather than a hose to clean up garden clippings. Put leaves and clippings in a trash can or a compost pile.
• Divert rain spouts and garden hoses from paved surfaces onto grass to allow water to filter through the soil. Water only your lawn and garden. Caution! Do not use this suggested action in areas with steep slopes or landslide potential.

Automotive

• Take used motor oil and antifreeze to gas stations that accept recyclable automotive fluids, or to a hazardous materials collection center.
• Reduce and prevent oil, anti-freeze and other leaks by maintaining vehicles regularly.
• Reduce automotive emissions through routine auto maintenance, ride sharing and public transportation.
• Conserve water when washing vehicles and use biodegradable soap. Clean engines at a "Do It Yourself Car Wash" where the drainage is not connected to the storm drain.

Pet Waste

• Pet waste can be a major source of bacteria and excess nutrients inDog park sign local waters.
• Carry extra bags when walking pets and make them available to other pet owners who are without.
• Pick up pet waste and flush it down a toilet or dispose of it in a trash can.
• NEVER dump pet waste into a storm drain or catch basin.
• Tell friends and neighbors about the ill effects of animal waste on the environment and encourage them to clean up after their pets.

You can control urban runoff by supporting city and county activities to keep Corona's streets clean. You can help by participating in recycling, beach clean-ups, and the proper disposal of hazardous materials.
Since many businesses and residents are unaware of the storm water and urban runoff problem, encourage neighbors and co-workers to be careful not to pollute the storm drain system.

Questions should be directed to:
City of Corona
NPDES/Stormwater Section
(951) 736-2266