Restaurant Best Management Practices to Prevent Stormwater Runoff

Pollutants which enter into stormwater catch basins are harmful to the environment. Substances such as Fats, Oils and Grease (FOG) are especially of concern. Because stormwater contents are deposited into streams or the ocean untreated, they can cause harm to fish, waterfowl, and other aquatic wildlife. Oil and grease can clog fish gills and may also form a shiny layer on top of water, preventing crucial aquatic plants and seaweed from receiving sunlight.

• Locate dumpsters and storage containers away from stormwater catch basins.
• Make sure dumpsters do not have any leaks. If there is a leak, contact your waste collection company, who will either repair the leak or replace the dumpster.
• Use absorbent pads (not loose material such as kitty litter), to clean up FOG spills outside, and dispose of the used pads in the garbage.
• Use absorbent pads in stormwater catch basins if grease dumpsters are located within 20 feet of the catch basin.
• Clean exhaust hoods regularly. FOG may collect and accumulate on the roof of your building. The accumulated waste may runoff during a rainstorm. In addition, the accumulation of FOG on your roof may start a fire.
• Avoid using outside cleaning products that contain harsh ingredients such as phosphates.
• Clean stormwater catch basins at least twice a year; once in the spring and once in late fall. They should also be cleaned after any spills.
• Make sure that any company you hire to clean your exhaust hoods, vents, or grills is not dumping the material down a storm drain or leaving wastes in roof gutters.