The quality of storm water (water that drains to the ocean, lakes, and rivers) within the City of Lawndale is regulated by the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System Permit (NPDES). The City of Lawndale is a co-permittee under the NPDES program.
The storm drains underneath the City carry away rainwater to prevent flooding in the streets. Unlike the water that enters the sewer system, which is filtered and treated before being released back to the environment in reclaimed form, storm drain water goes directly to the ocean without being treated.
Pollutants the storm water comes in contact with - including pesticides, automotive fluids, construction debris, and yard waste - are carried through the storm drain system and out to the ocean as well.
We need the community to take an active role in keeping our local beaches pollution free by keeping our City litter free.