Discharged pool water and waters containing chlorine or other chemicals can be detrimental to aquatic life if not handled responsibly. It is extremely important that these waters are handled correctly.
Pool waters must not be discharged to any storm sewer or on land in which a storm sewer is accessible because runoff can kill fish and create unsafe aquatic conditions.
When draining a swimming pool this year, make sure to protect Pennsylvania by following these tips:
- Pool water may be disposed of through the sanitary sewer system ONLY with municipal permission.
- Never dispose of pool water through a storm sewer, as it will discharge to a stream.
- If lowering the water level of the pool, let it drain to a lawn to prevent it from running off into a storm sewer.
- If a sanitary sewer system is not available, water may be used for irrigation if it does not run off the property pr into a storm sewer.
The discharge of swimming pool water to any waters of the commonwealth without a permit is a violation of the Clean Streams Law. Property owners and pool companies that violate this law may be prosecuted and penalized for damages. Don’t let this happen to you!