BMP DEEP DIVE VOL. 7
Keeping Trash Out
of Stormwater
When industrial facilities think about stormwater compliance, attention usually goes to metals, sediment, oil and grease, or pH. But one of the most common and most visible compliance issues is often overlooked: trash and debris.
Bottles, wrappers, plastics, cigarette butts, and loose packaging don’t just look bad. They signal poor site control, weak BMP implementation, and a breakdown in basic housekeeping.
Why Trash and Debris Matter
to Regulators
Trash and debris are considered “non-stormwater pollutants,” meaning they should never leave an industrial site. During inspections, visible debris in discharge areas, drainage pathways, or receiving waters is an instant red flag.
Regulators interpret debris as evidence of:
Inadequate housekeeping practices
Poor BMP maintenance
Uncontrolled material handling
A lack of employee awareness
Even if your analytical samples meet benchmarks, visible trash can still result in inspection findings, required corrective actions, or increased scrutiny.
Common Sources of Trash
at Industrial Facilities
Trash and debris don’t usually come from a single event, they build up from everyday operations, including:
Pallet wrap, strapping, and packaging materials
Food and beverage waste from employee areas
Cigarette butts near entrances and loading docks
Broken pallets and scrap material
Lightweight plastics and paper from dumpsters
Windblown debris from neighboring properties
Once rain starts, this material quickly mobilizes and moves toward storm drains, catch basins, and outfalls.
Trash and debris don’t usually come from a single event, they build up from everyday operations, including:
Pallet wrap, strapping, and packaging materials
Food and beverage waste from employee areas
Cigarette butts near entrances and loading docks
Broken pallets and scrap material
Lightweight plastics and paper from dumpsters
Windblown debris from neighboring properties
Once rain starts, this material quickly mobilizes and moves toward storm drains, catch basins, and outfalls.
Why Trash Causes Bigger
Stormwater Problems
Trash does more than violate visual inspection standards. It can also:
Block drains and create localized flooding
Damage inlet protection and filters
Increase sediment and pollutant loading
Carry oils, chemicals, and residues attached to debris
In other words, trash magnifies other stormwater risks,turning a housekeeping issue into a system-wide problem.
BMPs That Effectively
Control Trash and Debris
Trash control is one of the most cost-effective areas of stormwater compliance when addressed correctly.
Good Housekeeping BMPs
Routine sweeping of paved and loading areas
Daily or weekly site walk-throughs
Wind-blown debris patrols after deliveries
Clearly labeled trash and recycling areas
Structural BMPs
Catch basin inserts
Trash racks in conveyance areas
Waste Management Controls
Covered dumpsters with closed lids
Secured waste bins and recycling containers
Scheduled waste removal during rainy season
Spill-proof compactors when possible
Employee Awareness
Training employees on litter prevention
Clearly posted housekeeping expectations
Designated smoking areas with receptacles
Inspection and Maintenance
Are Critical
Trash BMPs only work if they’re maintained. Full drain filters, overloaded catch basin inserts, and clogged screens can create backups and cause pollutants to bypass controls.
Facilities should:
Inspect BMPs before and after storm events
Document cleanouts and maintenance
Replace damaged or missing BMPs immediately
Track repeat problem areas and address root causes
Documentation matters! Maintenance records demonstrate active management and protect you during inspections.
Clean Site, Clean Samples,
Fewer Headaches
By controlling trash, facilities not only improve water quality but also reduce inspection findings, protect infrastructure, and present a professional image to customers, employees, and inspectors alike.
The Compliance Takeaway
If trash is leaving your site, something else is being missed too. Addressing trash and debris through housekeeping, structural BMPs, and employee engagement is a low-cost, high-impact step toward consistent stormwater compliance.
Clean pavement leads to clean runoff and fewer compliance surprises.