Clean Water Program

Programs & Services

About the Clean Water Program

Storm water runoff is the leading cause of water pollution. When excess water flows over land, it can pick up and carry contaminants like oil, pesticides, trash, fecal matter, and other materials on the ground. This contaminated water runs down storm drains and flows into our creeks and the San Francisco Bay.

The Alameda County Public Works Agency Clean Water Program is responsible for:

  • Inspecting industrial areas
  • Assessing and monitoring watersheds
  • Monitoring construction sites
  • Conducting outreach to the public

The ACPWA Clean Water Program ensures that the County meets the requirements of its storm water permit with the San Francisco Bay Regional Water Quality Control Board. In doing this work, the Clean Water Program also protects and enhances the quality of water in our local creeks and watersheds.

Prevent Contamination

Water pollution affects every habitat and ecosystem. It’s important to remember that anything we leak onto the ground can be carried off with stormwater runoff and can contribute to contamination of our waterways. Here are some tips to help prevent contamination:

  • Remember: only rain down the storm drain!
  • Please do not litter. Always place trash in a garbage can.
  • Keep cars free of leaks.
  • Use non-toxic methods when dealing with pests.
  • Never clean paint brushes or rinse containers into gutters or storm drains. 
  • To report an emergency spill, please call 911.
  • To report illegal dumping or any non-emergency spill, please contact ACPWA at 510-670-5500. 

For helpful tips on how to care for your home and garden with less toxic methods, or if you need information on how you can help protect our waterways, please visit the Alameda Countywide Clean Water Program website.

Tips for Business Owners

We work with variety of local businesses and professionals to help them understand how storm water quality regulations affect them, and to support companies in adopting techniques that help protect our waterways and the San Francisco Bay.

For more information on requirements for your business, visit the following: