Detergents and Soaps

Detergent and chemicals in soap can pollute local waterways. This happens when soapy wash water enters a storm drain or stream when you're washing your car or carpet cleaning. You can help protect the environment by making sure this water does not go into the stormwater system.

If you observe stormwater pollution, call the Stormwater Helpline at 919-996-3940 or send an email to IllegalDischarge@raleighnc.gov.

At-Home Tips

• Keep water out of the street - Wash your car in the yard or on a gravel area.
• Use half the amount of soap so that the detergent breaks down faster.
• Direct wash water toward the lawn or a planted area.

Mobile Carwashes

• Use cool water and biodegradable detergents.
• Clean vehicles on grass or gravel areas (when possible).
• Cover nearby storm drains before washing vehicles.
• Don't do any engine or parts cleaning.
• Avoid acid-based wheel cleaners.

Is a mobile carwash coming to your neighborhood? Let us know! This will help prevent issues with carwash water going into a storm drain. Call the Stormwater Helpline at 919-996-3940 or email IllegalDischarge@raleighnc.gov.

Commercial Carwashes

• Direct soapy water from the carwash to the sanitary sewer system. Don't put wash water in the stormwater system. 
• If a sewer connection is not available – direct wash water to collection pools or a similar method. Dispose of wash water properly in a sink.
• Let us know if you see a mobile carwash that isn’t properly disposing wash water. They should follow the same rules as commercial carwashes.

Carpet Cleaning

There are chemicals and fibers from carpets that can go directly to our streams and creeks if you dump the dirty water into a storm drain. This water is not treated and is unsafe for the environment.

Watch the video to learn how to prevent water pollution from carpet cleaning!

Practices for Professionals

Do you do sanitary sewer maintenance or sidewalk/concrete repair? Follow these tips to properly dispose of wash water:

1. Don't use soaps or chemicals when pressure washing pavement.
2. Sweep surfaces before pressure washing. 
3. Collect wash water and dispose in a sink or drain that connects to the sewer system. If you cannot collect the water, use a drain seal, filter sock, or other method to either filter the water or redirect it away from a drain.
4. Follow the directions on the package or Materials Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) when disposing of chemicals.
5. Carry spill response details with you. Contact us if you can't contain the spill by calling 919-996-3940 or email IllegalDischarge@raleighnc.gov.
6. Wash out equipment in a designated area, i.e. indoors or where you can use inlet protection.