Responsible Home Maintenance

Stay green with home maintenance and repairs

Ready to tackle some of those home maintenance or repair projects you’ve been putting off, or spruce up your yard? Just remember – allowing any polluted wash water or other hazardous substances into the public storm drains is against the law in Bothell (BMC 18.04.260). Whether you’re doing the work yourself or hiring a contractor, you’re responsible for what goes into the public storm system.

Common sources of pollution

Car washing
Carpet cleaning
Chlorinated water from a swimming pool
Concrete work
Hazardous materials
Painting
Pesticides and fertilizers
Pressure washing
Vehicle maintenance

Pollutants from these activities can harm you, your pets, and the environment. Protect yourself, your family, and your local streams by keeping polluted water and hazardous chemicals out of Bothell’s storm drains.

When hiring a professional to do the work, use carpet cleaning, maintenance, and pressure washing services that don't dump their wash water into our storm drains. When using a landscaper, look for businesses that use organic products instead of pesticides and fertilizers.

Using and storing hazardous products

If you use or store any chemicals or other hazardous items in your home, please follow these safety guidelines.

Do not mix products with each other
Use only the recommended amount for the job, based on the manufacturer's instructions
Store products in separate cabinets away from food, and use locks or childproof latches
Make sure that products are clearly labeled and lids are tightly sealed
Keep products in original containers and never store in beverage or food containers
Keep products off the floor and away from any sources of heat, spark, or flame
Store volatile chemicals in well-ventilated areas
Keep containers dry, and if corrosion occurs, place into plastic containers with a nonflammable absorbent such as kitty litter

Learn more about preventing stormwater pollution.