Storm Water Pollution Management

The Engineering Division manages the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Program, also known as the Storm Water Pollution Program. The purpose of this program is to protect receiving waters (oceans, lakes and rivers to where storm water flows) from pollutants carried in the storm water flow, as well as flow from irrigation, construction and similar activities.

The storm drain system consists of flood control channels and easements, gutters, rivers, streams and other such natural waterways. A commonly believed, but untrue myth, is that flood control channels and gutters release their flow in to the sewer system. The reality is that the entire storm drain system in the City flows into Big Bear Lake. On a larger scale, Big Bear Valley, and most of the San Bernardino Valley, are part of the Santa Ana River Watershed.

Water Quality Management Plans (WQMP)

The City of Big Bear Lake, along with 15 other local jurisdictions, is part of a permit group that reports to the California Regional Water Quality Control Board, Santa Ana Region (Region 8). As part of this permit, all new construction will require preparation of either a Category WQMP or a Non-Category WQMP. Even some additions will require preparation of a WQMP depending on the size and scope of the addition. The City of Big Bear Lake Engineering Division is available for assistance in determining whether or not a project will require a WQMP and guidance on preparation. Several templates are available for download and have been specifically prepared for public use within the City of Big Bear Lake. In addition, the State website for the Santa Ana Watershed is http://www.waterboards.ca.gov/santaana/. The site contains helpful information, including requirements and best management practice (BMP) tips for a range of home activities to heavy construction.

Home Auto Maintenance

Recycling: Motor oil and car batteries can be recycled by taking them to any County Household Hazardous Waste Collection Center. The Center in Big Bear Lake is located at 42040 Garstin Drive, and operates from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. every Saturday, weather permitting. You may also dispose of other automobile fluids such as antifreeze, brake fluid, and oil filters. NEVER dump these materials into a storm drain or gutter!

Spills: You can avoid spills by using drip pans and funnels when draining and changing automobile fluids. In the case of a spill, remember to clean the spilled material with an absorbing substance such as kitty litter or sawdust. NEVER squirt the material with water into a gutter or storm drain!

Washing Vehicles: Whenever possible, take your vehicle to a washing facility to avoid oil and other toxics from washing into the storm drains. Whenever washing vehicles outside of washing facilities, always try to wash the vehicle over a pervious surface such as a lawn, to avoid unwanted or harmful runoff.

Painting Activities

Always keep all paint products and wastes away from streets, gutters, and storm drains. Try to reuse paint thinner by setting aside the used thinner in a closed, labeled jar for future use. Dried paint residue may be thrown away in the trash. Also, always purchase water-based paint whenever possible. Water-based paints may be washed out in the sink.

For information on paint disposal:
County Hazardous Waste Services: (909) 382-5401
City of Big Bear Lake: (909) 866-5831 x 138

Home & Garden Activities

Fertilizers and pesticides are often carried into the storm drain system by storm water or sprinkler runoff. To minimize this type of pollution, use organic or non-toxic pesticides and fertilizers whenever possible. Also, try not to apply these materials just before a rain. Additionally, avoid over-watering after applying such chemicals. You will conserve water and keep the materials in your garden!

Pet waste should be collected and thrown away in the trash to prevent the potential spread of diseases from entering the storm drain system or by coming in contact with others. When walking your pet, please carry a scoop and bag so you may collect and properly dispose the waste. Most trash haulers will collect the pet waste in the trash provided it is properly bagged. Please keep garden and grass clippings out of the storm drain system. Do not blow, sweep, or hose yard waste into the street, gutter, or storm drain. Most of these organic clippings may be used for compost in your garden. For information on backyard composting, please contact the Mojave Desert and Mountain Integrated Waste Management JPA. Master Composter training is available at no charge.

Remember to store your home and garden chemicals off the ground in a covered area, and prevent contact with water.

Commercial Construction Activities

For any information on best management practices for commercial development activities such as concrete and mortar work, general construction, excavation and grading, home remodeling, and roadwork and paving, please contact the City at (909) 866-5831.