Source Control & Business Inspection Program

Stormwater Source Control & Business Pollution Prevention


What is Source Control?Paint Containers

Source control is a best management practice that stops stormwater pollution and water quality degradation at the source. The city will begin working with businesses starting January 1, 2023, to identify potential pollution sources and stop them from mixing with stormwater and entering into storm drains. Stormwater that enters storm drainage systems in Monroe discharge to nearby waterbody's like Lake Tye, French Creek, Skykomish River, and many others without treatment. That means that the pollutants going in to the storm drain make it in to our beloved local waterways, and have the potential to seriously impact the environment and public health.

Where does Source Control come from?

The Source Control Business Program is a state mandate described in the city's Phase II NPDES Municipal Stormwater General Permit (stormwater permit) issued by the Department of Ecology.

What businesses will be inspected?

If your business falls under one of the following business/activity types, it will be inspected by the city:

  • Ambulatory Health Care Services and Hospitals
  • Automotive Dealers and Gasoline Service Stations
  • Beverage, Food, and Tobacco Manufacturing
  • Building Materials, Hardware, Garden Supplies Dealers
  • Chemical Manufacturing
  • Construction of Buildings
  • Educational Services
  • Electrical Equipment, Appliance, and Component
  • Fabricated Metal Product Manufacturing
  • Food and Beverage Stores
  • Food Services and Drinking Places
  • Heavy and Civil Engineering Construction
  • Leather and Allied Product Manufacturing
  • Machinery, Computer, and Electronic Product Manufacturing
  • Manufacturing
  • Museums, Historical Sites, and Similar Institutions
  • Nonmetallic Mineral Product Manufacturing
  • Paper Manufacturing
  • Petroleum and Coal Products Manufacturing
  • Plastics and Rubber Product Manufacturing
  • Primary Metal Manufacturing
  • Printing and Related Support Activities
  • Rail Transportation
  • Rental and Leasing Services
  • Repair and Maintenance
  • Specialty Trade Contractors
  • Support Activities for Animal Production
  • Support Activities for Transportation
  • Transit and Ground Passenger Transportation
  • Transportation Equipment Manufacturing
  • Truck Transportation and Warehousing
  • Wholesale Trade – Durable Goods
  • Wholesale Trade – Nondurable Goods
  • Wood Product Manufacturing

For more information regarding businesses that will be required to be inspected, please see the Department of Ecology's Appendix 8 - Businesses and Activities that are Potential Sources of Pollutants. Business types that will be subject to inspection through the Source Control Program are grouped by NAICS codes.

IMG_0138What will the Source Control business inspections involve?

The initial inspection will consist of an evaluation of business practices that could pollute stormwater or the stormwater system and if best management practices are being implemented to prevent or minimize pollution potential. This may include verifying stormwater systems are being cleaned as needed, chemicals are being stored responsibly, spills are being cleaned up on-site, items are being stored in way that does not pollute stormwater.

If there are any activities found that may pose a threat to water quality or public health, an action plan will be provided to the business. The city will work with the business to come up with solutions to resolve any concerns observed during the inspection. Follow-up inspections or documentation may be required to ensure issues are addressed. Voluntary compliance will be the goal of this program, however the city does have the authority to refer cases to the city's Enforcement Officer if repeated non-compliant practices are not resolved.

Can I prepare ahead of time for an inspection?

Implementing good housekeeping practices is a great first step in pollution prevention and can involve best management practices such as:

  • Sweep and clean outside areas regularlyIMG_0283 Opens in new window
  • Clean up spills and dispose of waste properly
  • Keep liquids inside or undercover
  • Keep dumpster areas tidy
  • Conduct all washing operations in an area that drains to the sanitary sewer
  • Cover piles and materials being stored outside

Additional best management practices and good housekeeping practices can be found in the Department of Ecology's Stormwater Management Manual for Western Washington.