Prevent Pollution

Olivette residents are responsible for doing their part in preventing pet waste and grease from polluting our community. Please read the guidelines below for instructions on how to properly dispose of both pollutants

Disposing Pet Waste

Pet waste left in yards and public areas comes into contact with stormwater when it rains. The stormwater then becomes contaminated from contact with pet waste and carries pollutants into the storm sewer system. Storm sewers quickly drain the water directly to our area streams without any treatment.

Dogs are major contributors to pet waste in our environment, however, all pets can contribute to the problem.

Pet owners should be responsible stewards of our environment by following the recommendations below:

• Put the waste in a sealed bag and place it in the trash
• Pet waste stations are conveniently located in Olivette Parks
• Flush down the toilet (DO NOT flush plastic bags or kitty litter)
• Bury waste in the soil at least six inches deep
• DO NOT place pet waste in compost piles or around vegetable gardens where pathogens can contaminate food products

Dog and cat feces must be handled carefully because it contains bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can infect humans and cause serious illness. Always wash your hands after handling pet waste.

Grease Disposal

Grease accumulation in the sewer system causes obstruction by constricting ow or outright blockage of sewer pipes and interfering with the normal operation of the wastewater treatment system.

All households play an important role in preventing neighborhood sewer system blockages. All too often fats, oils, and grease are poured down the sink or garbage disposers which are not designed to properly handle these materials. Once fats, oils, and grease enter the drain, it begins to build up in the pipes and can eventually cause blockage and backups.

You can help prevent grease blockages by disposing of cooking grease with your local waste collection facility and not into drains or ushed-down commodes. Allow the fat to cool and solidify, then scrape it out, wrap it in newspaper or tin foil and dispose of it in your trash bin. Alternatively, pour it into a plastic container, and when it has cooled dispose of it in your trash bin.

If you are interested in learning about more ways to protect public sewer systems please visit the education and outreach page of the MSD website.

Draining Swimming Pools

Draining swimming pools usually involves a large volume of water with chlorine levels that can impact aquatic life in local streams. Learn the acceptable draining procedures on the Swimming Pool Maintenance Guidelines page.