Step 1- Choose a Safe Drain

Select a drain near your home, workplace, or business that is easily accessible and in need of thorough cleaning!

Avoid Areas With:

• Standing water– these drains have a larger issue and should be reported to your city or county stormwater team
• Heavy Traffic– Never work in the street in areas with heavy traffic or high speed limits. Limit your work to quiet neighborhood streets.

Step 2- Gather Tools

Having the right tools makes storm drain cleaning safer and more effective:

• Broom or Rake: For sweeping leaves, pine needles, and trash away from the drain.

• Dustpan, Bucket, or Shovel: To collect debris rather than pushing it back into the street.

• Gloves: Thick work gloves protect from sharp objects or hidden hazards.

• Trash Bag or Yard Waste Bin: For collecting debris. Yard waste should go into yard waste bins, trash into garbage.

• Sturdy Shoes: Closed-toe shoes or boots keep feet safe and provide traction.

Step 3- Clean The Drain

Once you have your tools ready, take a few minutes to clear the drain and the area around it:

• Start with the Curb Line: Work a few feet up and down the curb line from the drain — this keeps leaves and trash from washing right back into the drain with the next rain.

• Sweep, Don’t Push: Sweep or rake debris away from the grate and collect it in a dustpan, bucket, or bag. Avoid pushing material further down the street or into the drain.

• Check for Hazards: Watch for sharp objects, needles, or hazardous materials. If you see anything unsafe, stop and report it to your city or county stormwater team.

• Leave the Grate in Place: Never attempt to lift or remove the grate — this can be dangerous and is the responsibility of your public works department.

• Work Safely: Be aware of traffic, wear bright or reflective clothing if near a road, and stay on the curb rather than stepping into the street whenever possible.

• Dispose: Put leaves and yard debris in your yard waste bin or compost. Add trash and litter in garbage.

Step 4- Post it!

When you’re done, take a moment to share your efforts with your friends, neighbors, or community groups. A quick photo of your cleared drain — or of the leaves and trash you collected — helps show that small actions can make a big difference.

If you’re on social media, post your photo using #CleanDrains and tag your city or county if they’re participating. This helps spread awareness and encourages others to join in.

Even if you don’t use social media, telling a neighbor or coworker about what you did can inspire them to clear the drain near their home or business. These simple actions add up, and together we can keep our streets cleaner and our waterways healthier.