Frequently Asked Questions

Storm drain discharges are flows that enter the storm drain system and do not consist entirely of rainwater. Any water that flows from households and businesses can carry pollutants into the storm drain system. Pollutants entering the storm drain system are harmful to our environment and our quality of life. Because of this, storm drain discharges are prohibited.

Examples include, but are not limited to:

• Irrigation runoff.
• Sediment and dirt.
• Wash water from cleaning equipment or surfaces, including mobile operations.
• Hazardous materials and chemicals.
• Illegal dumping of trash and debris.
• Improper Pool discharges.
• Pet waste.
• Building or home improvement materials.

All prohibited storm drain discharges are defined in Escondido Municipal Code, Chapter 22, Article 2, Section 22-22. For a list of exceptions, see Escondido Municipal Code Section 22-23.

It is imperative that we learn to use water efficiently both indoors and outdoors to help achieve long term conservation goals. To achieve these goals, we must avoid behaviors that could contribute to water waste.

Examples include, but are not limited to:

• Watering landscapes between 10:00 am and 6:00 pm
• Watering landscape areas in a manner causing significant runoff (irrigation runoff).
• Watering outdoor landscapes during or within 48 hours of measurable rainfall.
• Washing any vehicle with a hose not having a water shut-off nozzle.
• Washing off hardscape with a hose.
• Leaks and line breaks resulting in water leaving the property.

Water Violations are actions that are defined in the Escondido Municipal Code, Chapter 31, Article 5, including Section 31-230 and Section 31-232.