The Problem
Rain and melting snow (also called stormwater) can pick up trash and other pollution from our lawns and streets and carry it to our creeks and streams. This pollution eventually makes its way back to the Cumberland River, the source of our drinking water.
How the Stormwater System Works
Nashville's stormwater system is made up of street drains, pipes, and ditches that lead to our natural waterways. Rainwater that does not soak into the ground is directed to a ditch or to a stormwater pipe to minimize street and yard flooding in our neighborhoods.
Ditches allow rainwater to soak into the ground or, if there is too much rain, the water flows down the ditch to a creek or stream. Storm drains and pipes send excess rainwater, or runoff, directly to these waterways.
How You Can Help
Prevent pollution at home
Learn how to prevent common household pollutants from reaching our creeks and streams.
Prevent Pollution at Work
Commercial and industrial guidance to help your business stay in compliance with local regulations.
Only Rain in the Drain
Remember, only rain in the drain! (video)
Report Water Pollution
For polluted streams, storm drains, or ditches, call 615-880-2420 or email us
When brush, yard waste, and other debris is left in the ditch or on storm drains, it will act like a dam and prevent water flow. When ditches and pipes become clogged, your yard, your neighbor's yard, or even your street may flood. Public Works offers some simple guidance for setting out brush for collection.
Remember, only rain belongs in the drain.
Stormwater Management and Regulations
Nashville is a Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) that is managed by Metro Water Services Stormwater Division and regulated by the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC). To comply with state regulations, Metro Codes issued the Illicit Discharge Ordinance (Metro Code 15.64.205--Non-Stormwater Discharges) making environmentally hazardous dumping illegal and violators subject to a fine.
Metro Water Services has also developed appropriate plans and guidelines to meet the requirements of the MS4 Permit including a Stormwater Management Manual, Stormwater Management Plan, and a Public Information and Education Plan. Additionally, our compliance is monitored by the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) for which we provide an annual NPDES report.
Watershed Stewardship
In 2012, the Mayor's office, Metro Water Services, The Cumberland River Compact, and the Nature Conservancy joined forces to develop the Watershed Stewardship Plan. The plan helped guide decisions for the Richland Creek Watershed Management Plan.