What do we mean by stormwater?
Stormwater is water that comes from precipitation like snow and rain that flows across the ground and pavement. This includes snow and ice melt which is called stormwater runoff.
Where does this stormwater go?
Stormwater either seeps through the ground or drains into storm sewers. Storm sewer drains are located on street corners or low points along the curb, and are connected underground by pipes which lead directly to our local streams.
Why should I be concerned about stormwater?
Stormwater becomes an issue when it picks up chemicals, dirt, debris, and other pollutants as it flows. Along with the stormwater runoff, these pollutants go directly into our local streams.
How do I become part of the solution?
- Never dump anything down a storm drain.
- Pick up any trash you see, don’t be a litterbug.
- Pick up after your pet.
- Use a commercial car wash, or wash your car on the lawn so the water goes into the dirt and not into the storm sewer drains.
- Minimize use of fertilizers and pesticides.
- Report any stormwater problems, dumping incidents, stream irregularities, etc. (see Important Phone Numbers below).
Important Phone Numbers |
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DEP 24 Hour Water Quality Hotline |
484-250-5900 |
Call anytime, including evenings and weekends |
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DEP Water Quality Complaints (Weekdays) |
484-250-5991 |
Weekdays 8:30am to 4:30pm |
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Off Site discharge of sediment,erosion, and other improper controls during construction. |
Delaware Co. Conservation District: |
Send photo, full address, and directions |
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Clogged or leaking sanitary sewer lines; sewage smell in creek; illegal discharges into creeks or storm drains. |
Lower Chichester Township |
610-485-1472 Weekdays |
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Fish Kills |
PA Fish and Boat Commission |
DEP 24 Hour Water Quality Hotline 484-250-5900 |
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Dry weather outfall flows |
Lower Chichester Township |
610-485-1472 Weekdays |
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Broken water mains |
Chester Water Authority |
24 Hours |
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Broken water mains |
Aqua Pennsylvania |
24 Hours |
Educational articles and resources for residents
Green Guide to Clean Water for Residents
Keep Car Washing from Harming Our Streams
Winter De-Icing Tips for Residents
Important Web Link Resources
Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Links
Main Page
Stormwater Management
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Links
P.A. Main Page
NPDES Public Education and Outreach
NPDES Permit Program Basics
NPDES Stormwater Program
NPDES Stormwater Discharge for MS4s