Best Management Practices for Businesses

  1. Gas Stations and Fueling Facilities
  2. Horse Owners and Equine Industry
  3. Kennels
  4. Mobile Washers and Cleaners
  5. Nurseries

You can help prevent stormwater pollution from gasoline stations and fueling facilities.

General

  • Oil and gas spilled onto paved areas are easily washed to storm drains by water, either from hoses or rainfall. One gallon of oil can contaminate one million gallons of water!
  • Inspect storm drain inlets and catch basins within your facility boundary before October 1st of year. Clean, if necessary, to avoid flooding on the property during the rainy season.
  • Do not store drums or containers outside where they are susceptible to rainwater. If they must be stored outside, ensure that they are covered and in secondary containment to prevent spills from reaching the storm drain.

Fuel Dispensing Areas

  • Maintain fuel-dispensing areas using dry cleanup methods, such as sweeping, for the removal of litter and debris. Keep absorbent materials, such as kitty litter or rags, on site for cleanup of liquid spills. Remove absorbent materials promptly after clean up and dispose of properly. Fueling areas should never be hosed down unless the wash water is collected and disposed of properly.
  • Discourage “topping off” of fuel tanks. Post warning signs against this practice at the pumps. Overfilling of fuel tanks causes spills and vents gas fumes to the air.
  • The entire fueling area should be covered to prevent rain from washing away spills. The cover should extend several feet beyond the containment area.

Spill Control

  • Always be prepared for spills. Clean up spills using absorbent materials and then dispose of all waste properly. Never hose down spills into the storm drain system.

Outdoor Waste Receptacle Area

  • Use only watertight waste receptacles and keep the lids closed, or 
  • Grade and pave the waste receptacle area to prevent run-on of storm water, or
  • Install a roof over the waste receptacle area, or
  • Use and maintain drip pans under waste receptacles. Spot clean leaks and drips routinely to prevent runoff of contaminants and waste during storms.

Employee and Customer Education

  • Train all employees upon hiring on proper methods for spill cleanup, vehicle fueling, and the handling and disposal of waste. Make sure employees understand these Best Management Practices. Conduct and document annual review sessions.
  • Post Best Management Practices where both employees and customers can see them. Showing customers you are committed to protecting water quality is good public relations. 

(Spanish PDF)