The City of Cottleville is determined to provide you the necessary and educational information to help you understand and make educated decisions regarding storm water.
The Department of Public Works handles all aspects of storm water related issues.
For questions or additional information please contact the City Engineer.
636-498-6565, ext 9 or [email protected].
What is Storm Water?
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) storm water is generated by precipitation and runoff from land, pavements, building rooftops and other surfaces. Storm water runoff accumulates pollutants such as oil and grease, chemicals, nutrients, metals, and bacteria as it travels across land.
Heavy precipitation or snow melt can also cause sewer overflows which, in turn, may lead to contamination of water sources with untreated human and industrial waste, toxic materials, and other debris. EPA controls storm water and sewer overflow discharges through its National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES).
NPDES provides guidance to municipalities and state and federal permitting authorities on how to meet storm water pollution control goals as flexibly and cost-effectively as possible.
Report Illegal Discharges
When Rain flows over streets and other surfaces, it picks up pollutants and carries them into the stormwater conveyance "storm drain" system.
Did you know storm drains are NOT connected to sanitary sewer systems and treatment plants? This storm drain system is designed to prevent flooding by transporting water away from developed areas. However, this water is not filtered or treated, and all the contaminants it contains eventually flow to our streams and lakes where we swim and fish.
Once there, polluted runoff can harm wildlife and habitats. In some cases, it can even cause stream/lake closures or make our fish unsafe to eat.
It is illegal to dump or spill anything but storm water into a public storm drain facility. A person or business who discharges pollutants into a storm drainage facility could be charged with a misdemeanor and fined/imprisoned.
Making A Report
There are two ways to report illegal dumping in storm drains:
1. Call the City Engineer: 636-498-6565, ext 9
2. Email: [email protected]
Common Investigations Involve:
- Illegal dumping of used motor oil,
- Spills which contaminate soils, water bodies, or ground water,
- Immediate attention is given to cases that represent a threat to public health or the environment, or are in violation of the City's illicit discharge Code.