What You Can Do

Activities that can result in pollution to stormwater and local streams commonly include wastewater or wash water, soaps, oils, fertilizers, pesticides, grass clippings, and litter.

Water Pollution

Water pollution can come from many different sources. One of these sources is untreated runoff after a rain storm from streets, construction sites, buildings, parking lots, and private driveways that goes directly into storm drains and eventually into our local streams and rivers. Water flows off these surfaces and transports a variety of chemicals, fertilizers, oil and grease, pesticides, and litter into area streams, rivers, and lakes. Look through the flyer that shows how non-point source pollution ends up in the river.

Stormwater Improvement Programs

Murfreesboro has set up a program that seeks to improve stormwater and surface water quality. “Clean water is essential in every aspect of life. Beyond sustaining our local water resources, it ensures continued economic growth and prosperity. Controlling pollution is critical to preserving our aquatic resources and the economic viability of Murfreesboro," said former Mayor Tommy Bragg.

Clean Water Acts

In its efforts to preserve the quality of our lakes and rivers, federal and state governments are requiring cities and towns to comply with mandates for minimizing stormwater runoff. Murfreesboro is one of those cities. Stormwater management is required by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under the Clean Water Act of 1972.

Phase II Stormwater Regulations

Murfreesboro falls under the Phase II stormwater regulations as set forth under the Clean Water Act of 1987 and EPA regulations. For more information, see Phases of the NPDES Stormwater Program.

Activities that can result in pollution to stormwater and local streams commonly include wastewater or wash water, soaps, oils, fertilizers, pesticides, grass clippings, and litter.

Erosion & Sediment Control Problems

Notify city staff of erosion and sediment control problems found at construction sites. You can report illicit discharges to 615-848-3200 or, for after hour calls, 615-893-1223.

Illicit Discharge

An illicit discharge is disposal of anything other than storm water into the storm water drainage system. Illegal connection or tie-ins to the storm sewer system are included. For example: 

  • Sanitary wastewater (sewage)
  • Septic tank waste
  • Car wash, laundry, or industrial wash water
  • Concrete truck washout
  • Improper disposal of automotive fluids and household toxins
  • Soapy water used to wash parking lots, sidewalks, and buildings