Environmental Concerns

In order to help protect the environment, the City has adopted ordinances prohibiting illicit discharges (pollutants) to be discharged into storm drainage systems.

Sec. 20-131 - Littering and littering material, prohibits the blowing of yard clippings (among other harmful items) onto any surface area, stormwater management system, or water body within the City. Yard clippings blown into the street can clog stormwater drainage pipes, which can then cause flooding during heavy rainstorms. Clippings can also flow into the public waterways surrounding our Island City, thereby altering nutrient levels which negatively affect water quality and marine life. There is a $500 fine per offense for violations of this ordinance. 

 Sec. 20-141 - Disposal of grease waste, requires the proper collection and disposal of grease waste generated by businesses. Grease dumped into storm drainage systems will clog these pipes, potentially causing irreparable damage.  Substantial fines can be assessed in such cases.

The City encourages our residents and guests to report observed violations. If you witness an incident that is actively occurring, contact our Regional Communications Dispatch Center non-emergency line at (954) 764-4357 (HELP), and request a code or police officer respond to investigate. To submit information about an incident where there is a delay in reporting it, contact our code compliance unit at (954) 390-2157 or codecompliance@wmpd.org, and we will investigate.

You can learn about Illicit Discharges to see the effects from pollutants discharged into storm drains, and how to report illegal dumping.

Additional pollutants to be aware of include:

Mercury - Mercury evaporates easily and travels great distances through the atmosphere. It ends up in our waterways where it accumulates in fish and other creatures. Mercury, a nerve toxin, is especially dangerous when ingested (i.e., eating contaminated fish) by pregnant women, women planning to have children in the future, and children. The best way to keep mercury out of the home and the environment is not to buy mercury-containing products. However, when that’s unavoidable and when it comes time to throw these products away, please make sure they are taken to the household hazardous waste facility for recycling. It is against the law to throw mercury-containing products away in the garbage. Proper disposal of mercury-containing products means keeping the mercury intact and bringing it to the household hazardous waste facility.

Household Chemicals - Environmentally toxic chemicals such as grease, dirt, solvents, fertilizers, etc., can enter waterways and public places.  Be mindful that car washing can release harmful materials.  If possible, consider car washes or washing over grassy areas to help filter water prior to reaching storm systems.  Apply fertilizers carefully according to manufacturers recommendations.  Never empty grease and chemical products onto the ground.  Instead residential properties can schedule a household hazardous waste collection

For further information on pollution and protecting our waterways, contact the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Broward County resources online.