Stormwater

Human activity is largely responsible for stormwater pollution. Everything we put on the ground or into the storm drain can end up in our water. Each of us has a responsibility to make sure these contaminants stay out of our water.

Pollution on streets and chemicals from our lawns enter into storm drains when it rains, then directly into our drinking water supply. This storm water pollution is one of New Jersey's greatest threats to clean and plentiful water. In order to keep our water clean, municipalities have ordinances and rules prohibiting activities that contribute to storm water pollution.

The official definition of stormwater under the N.J.A.C. 7:14A rules is:

'Stormwater' means water resulting from precipitation (including rain and snow) that runs off the land's surface, is transmitted to the subsurface, or is captured by separate storm sewers or other sewage or drainage facilities, or conveyed by snow removal equipment.

These ordinances protect the Borough of Somerville from stormwater pollution:

• Stormwater Control
• Pet Waste
• Wildlife Feeding
• Litter Control
• Improper Disposal of Waste
• Yard Waste Collection Program
• Private Storm Drain Inlet Retrofitting
• Illicit Connection
• Salt Storage

For the full ordinance, read Chapter 149 Stormwater System of the Municipal Code.

For more information on storm water related topics, visit:

• US Environmental Protection Agency
• New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Division of Water Quality
• NJ Site Mart Database