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Maintain-A-Drain
You Can Protect The Bay!
Storm drains, also known as catch basins, inlets and or gutters are located at most corners of the City’s street intersections. They are designed to allow RAIN WATER to drain into the sewer system. Did you know that storm drains funnel their contents directly to the nearest creek or Lake Merritt and, from there, untreated into the bay, even when it isn't raining? During the winter, heavy rains wash a large amount of garbage, litter, and pollution into storm drains.
If It’s Plugged, It Will Flood!
With the help of dedicated volunteers, we can stop water pollution before it starts and keep our streets clean and safe. Join many others residents in helping to keep the drains clear of litter.
- Contact (510) 434-5113 or cralls@oaklandnet.com and let us know you want to participate.
- Volunteers will receive a rake and other supplies.
- Click here for the Adopt-A-Spot agreement (pdf format)
Helpful Information
- Before and during a storm, remember to periodically check the storm drains to make sure it is clear.
- Do NOT remove the grate from the storm drain opening. This does NOT unclog the system. Instead, it creates a hazard for small children and family pets!
- Use a rake (or shovel or broom) to remove leaves and garbage from the storm drain opening and gutter and place them in the appropriate container or bag. DO NOT LEAVE TRASH NEAR THE DRAIN.
- Add leaves to your compost pile or yard trimming container. Put garbage in your garbage cart.
The City also offers sandbags and plastic sheeting to residents and businesses.
Important Phone Numbers | |
| If there is an immediate hazard, such as oil being poured into a drain, call | 911 |
| Adopt-a-Creek / Storm Drain Stenciling | 510-238-6600 |
| Recycling Information and FREE curbside oil recycling kits | 510-238-SAVE (7283) |
| Illegal Dumping | 510-615-5566 |
| Adopt-a-Spot | 510-434-5113 |
| Graffiti Abatement Hotline | 510-615-5566 |