Illicit Discharge

• A/C condensation
• De-chlorinated pool water
• Discharge from potable water sources
• Diverted stream flows
• Landscape irrigation
• Lawn watering
• Rising ground water
• Street wash water
• Uncontaminated ground water
• Water line flushing

• Auto/household chemicals
• Car wash water
• Oil
• Industrial discharges
• Laundry wastewater
• Leaves
• Grass clippings and lawn debris
• Pesticides and fertilizers
• Litter
• Pet waste
• Radiator flush water
• Roadway accident spills
• Sanitary wastewater
• Septic tank effluent
• Chlorinated pool water*

*For guidance on properly draining swimming pools, see Swimming Pool Discharges below.

Swimming pool water often contains chlorine and other treatment chemicals that are harmful to fish and plant life – even at low levels. Cloudy water or debris from backwashing can also increase turbidity in nearby water bodies, which may violate water quality standards.

Florida limits chlorine in surface waters to very low levels, meaning pool water must be properly treated before it is discharged.

In Florida, swimming pool discharges are allowed under certain conditions:

• Pool water must be dechlorinated before discharge
• Discharges must not violate water quality standards
• No separate NPDES permit is required specifically for pool discharges in Florida

The Florida Department of Health regulates public pools and requires that pool wastewater disposal follow local municipal and permitting requirements.

To help protect water quality, follow these guidelines when draining or backwashing your pool:

Before Draining

• Only drain your pool when necessary
• Avoid draining during heavy rain or drought conditions
• Wait at least 48 hours after adding chlorine
• Ensure chlorine levels are below 0.01 mg/L before discharge
• Test water using a standard pool test kit

Water Quality Requirements

• Water should be clear and free of debris
• pH must be between 6.5 and 8.5
• Allow particles to settle before discharging
• Do not discharge murky or sediment-heavy water

Discharge Practices

• Drain water slowly across a vegetated area to allow filtration
• Prevent runoff from leaving your property
• Avoid creating standing water, flooding, or erosion
• Do not discharge directly into storm drains or surface waters

Chemical Use Considerations

• Use caution with algaecides containing copper or silver
• Follow manufacturer guidance before discharging treated water

Sanitary Sewer Disposal

• Do not discharge to the sanitary sewer system without approval
• Avoid discharging during or immediately after heavy rainfall