Household Information

In Massachusetts, polluted stormwater runoff and discharges in urbanized areas result in serious water-quality problems. Polluted runoffs to water bodies have affected plant and animal life in streams and lakes and can also affect recreational activities such as boating and swimming.

Common Stormwater Pollutants

  • Antifreeze (Engine Coolant)
  • Concrete
  • Cooking Grease
  • Debris
  • Detergent
  • Fertilizers
  • Motor Oil
  • Paint
  • Pesticides
  • Pet Waste
  • Sediments
  • Yard Waste

Benefits

Stormwater control helps the citizens and businesses of Brookline:

  • Prevent pollutants from entering the storm drain and discharging to rivers, streams and wetlands
  • Prohibit illicit connections and unauthorized discharges to the storm drain
  • Remove all such illicit connections
  • Comply with state and federal statues and regulations relating to stormwater discharges
  • Establish the legal authority to ensure compliance with the provisions of this section through inspection, monitoring, and enforcement

The Town of Brookline regulates stormwater discharges under By-Law 8.25. Non-stormwater discharges contain contaminants and supply additional flows to the town's storm drain system. Non-storm drain discharges are a major cause of impairment of water quality and water flow (in lakes, ponds, streams, rivers, wetlands and groundwater), contamination of drinking water supplies, alteration or destruction of aquatic and wildlife habitat, and flooding. These can be prevented through the use of this by-law.

Stormwater Related Resources

What can you do to help reduce stormwater pollution?

Contact Information

Please contact the Town of Brookline Department of Public Works Engineering Division at 617-730-2139 or by email with any questions, concerns or comments or to report possible illegal discharges to the town's storm drain system.

Remember: Only rain down the drain!