Carlsbad’s Storm Water Protection Program is part of a nationwide effort to protect natural water bodies from pollution. Storm drains are not connected to the sanitary sewer and therefore the water flowing through them has no treatment prior to discharge to Carlsbad's creeks, lagoons and ocean.

The storm water program includes inspection, monitoring, testing, and education and outreach to the public. Through this program, the city has been able to inform residents and businesses how to prevent pollutants and other hazardous materials from entering storm drains.  

• Best management practices: Best management practices (BMPs) are procedures and practices residents can implement to prevent pollutants and other hazardous materials from entering Carlsbad's storm drains. 
• Studies and reports: The city's Storm Water Protection Program is regulated by the Municipal Storm Water  Permit, which was issued by the Regional Water Quality Control Board.

If there is a storm water or storm drain related issue that is currently occuring, please call the storm water HOTline at 602-2799.