Stormwater Quality

No Dumping - Drains to CreekThe Leander Storm Water Management Program protects the quality of our ponds and creeks. Clean water is a life-giving natural resource and the centerpiece of any healthy environment. Our waterways support a wealth of wildlife and aquatic habitat, and provide us with a glimpse of nature in an urban setting.

Storm water pollution is one of the biggest threats to the health of our surface waters. The problem is magnified by widespread development, which puts stress on the environment. By converting land from an undisturbed condition to a developed state we've covered the landscape with impervious (not allowing fluid to pass through) surfaces - buildings, roads, rooftops and parking lots. Rainwater that used to soak into the ground now becomes urban runoff. As it flows over the land, the runoff collects pollutants on its way to the nearest storm drain or creek. Unlike sewage, which is collected and treated, anything that flows into the storm sewer system empties directly into waterways without any treatment. In Leander, the polluted storm water runoff eventually flows into local waterways such as Brushy Creek.

Common pollutants include sediment, oil and grease, detergents, fertilizers, pesticides, toxic metals, and harmful bacteria. Oil and grease and detergents are washed off of roads and parking lots. Fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides are released from lawns and landscaped areas.

To reduce the impacts of storm water pollution on surface waters, The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality has issued regulations to protect local waterways. A TCEQ regulation designated Leander as a Phase II City, and requires the City to guide efforts to reduce water pollution. Under the rules, the City is issued a permit and is required to develop a program to minimize the amount of contaminants discharged from the storm sewer system.

It's important to realize that we, the citizens - not industry - are responsible for most of today's water quality impacts. As stewards of this indispensable resource, we must make changes in our daily activities to preserve the ecological integrity of our waterways for generations to come.

To report an incident that negatively impacts our water, please email Stormwater or call 512-259-2640. After hours contact Police Department. Dispatch at 512-528-2836.

  1. Don't Litter
  2. Don't over-fertilize your lawn or fertilize before a storm.
  3. Don't apply pesticides or herbicides if rain is anticipated. Follow the manufacturer's instructions.
  4. Maintain your septic system. Quickly replace wastewater clean-out caps to prevent clogs and overflows.
  5. Clean up after pests, dispose of pet wastes in a trash can.
  6. Maintain your car or truck, promptly fix leaks, and recycle old motor oil.
  7. Never dump anything down a storm drain or gutter.
  8. Use a broom instead of hosing down your driveway and sidewalk.