Food service establishments

Many routine business activities can pollute stormwater runoff or groundwater. Ecology’s goal under their partnership with the Snohomish County Health Department is to provide technical assistance and educational services to help local small businesses prevent stormwater contaminants and hazardous waste from entering our waterways.

FOG-Fats, Oil, Grease

Fats, oils, and grease from food preparation can build up in sewer pipes and cause costly blockages and sewage overflows. Never pour oil or grease down a drain or into a catch basin. It is important to maintain your onsite grease trap and grease interceptor as required by your local city. If you are collecting used oil for recycling, make sure to keep the oil bin clean and away from storm drains. 

CLEANING SUPPLIES AND DISINFECTANTS

If you use or find unused cleaners, detergents, or disinfectants:

• Try to find a use for them, and keep them out of solid waste bins
• Do not pour them down a storm drain or dump them on the ground
• Keep ammonia and chlorine products separate 
• Take them to the Hazardous Waste Drop-Off Station   

PRESSURE WASHING

Pressure wash water may contain sediments, chemicals, or hazardous waste. When pressure washing, block the storm drain entirely, collect the water, and divert it to a landscaped area for infiltration or send it to a sewer system. Make sure to use cold water with no detergents or degreasers. You may need to get permission from your sewer authority.