The mission of Public Works – Watershed Protection is to reduce pollutants entering storm drains, sanitary sewers, creeks, and the San Francisco Bay. Watershed Protection also works in partnership with the Regional Water Quality Control Plant (RWQCP) to meet Regional Water Quality Control Board permit requirements and City of Palo Alto Council Priorities.

Our Programs

Summary of Programs

Stormwater Pollution Prevention and Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG) Programs

Inspects and regulates commercial businesses, food facilities, construction sites, City-owned facilities and rights-of-way
Facilitates construction and maintenance of green stormwater infrastructure
Liaises with the Stormwater Management Oversight Committee, which oversees Stormwater Management Fund use

Pretreatment and Regulatory Compliance Program

Regulates business discharges to the RWQCP from businesses such as photo processors, dentists, automotive service facilities, industrial dischargers, businesses handling contaminated groundwater, and machine shops. Refer to the Regional Water Quality Control Plant for more information
Supports the RWQCP in regulatory tracking, advocacy, compliance, optimization, and resource recovery (e.g., recycled water, biosolids treatment) through special studies and evaluations

Public Outreach and Policy Program

Provides pollution prevention public outreach and school programs in the Regional Water Quality Control Plant service area.
Leads special projects for sea level rise adaptation planning and stormwater permit compliance