Can I flush my pool water onto the ground or down a storm drain?

The City of Mill Valley urges residents to work with pool service providers that commit to flushing pool water into the sewer system instead of into the ground or down the storm drain.

Because many of us swim in chlorinated water at relatively high concentrations, we often don't fully understand the toxicity of chlorine on the natural habitat that surrounds us. It's quite simple: the concentration of sodium hypochlorite (chlorine) in pool water is high enough to pollute a body of water 10 to 100 times its size if sent to the storm drain.

Because every storm drain in the City of Mill Valley empties into a sensitive natural body of water, such as a creek or wetland, introducing chlorine into those creeks and wetlands kills fish and frogs and the aquatic bugs they feed on.

City officials urge residents not to hire a pool service company that is unwilling to flush pool water into the sewer system.

Show All Answers

1. Can I flush my pool water onto the ground or down a storm drain?
2. What are the dangers of mold and mildew and whom do I call if I encounter this problem?
3. I disagree that my property has a violation. Can I appeal the staff's determination of the violation?
4. How much will my building permit cost?
5. What will happen if I don't get a permit for the work that generated the violation?
6. I received notice for a code violation. Who turned me in?
7. What is required regarding trash, debris, indoor and outdoor storage?
8. Who do I report graffiti to?
9. What do I do if I own or know of a vacant, unsecured substandard structure?
10. The person who turned me in has a violation on their property. Why aren't you investigating them?
11. Are gas-powered leaf blowers allowed in Mill Valley?
12. Can I keep bees?
13. Can I keep chickens or rabbits in my yard?
14. My neighbor's construction project is making a lot of noise - what is allowed?
15. Does the City require yard and lot maintenance? If so, why?
16. Why should pools be maintained and what should I do if I know of someone with a pool that is not being maintained?
17. Who do I contact if I want to change or put a new sign outside of my business?
18. Why do I have to pay penalties if I'm getting a permit to correct the violation?
19. How do I report a code violation?
20. How long do I have to fix the violation?
21. What are the rules if I want to run a business out of my home?
22. How do I report an encroachment on Steps, Lanes, or Paths?
23. Who do I contact if I am having an animal issue?