Mobile power washing

Mobile power washing businesses must adhere to Wastewater Bylaw 14M2012 and Stormwater Bylaw 37M2005. For detailed information refer to our Mobile power washing industry wastewater compliance handout.

Considerations for wastewater disposal

It is prohibited to discharge wastewater into the stormwater system.

  • Filter screens shall be installed at any water release point to capture all solid materials.
  • Identify high and low points within the site and determine where the wash water will naturally collect.
    • Common equipment used in the collection of wastewater includes:
    • Vacuum systems
    • Wastewater recovery systems
    • Absorbents
  • Solids must be diverted to a solids waste stream unless the materials are considered hazardous, in which case they shall be sent to an appropriate treatment facility.
  • Visit calgary.ca/hhw or contact 311 for the hazardous materials disposal requirements.

Management practices to safely dispose of generated wastewater

Identify the proper disposal options for the wash water based on the potential contaminants:

  • Obtain all necessary permits and authorizations for proper disposal.
  • Identify all locations of nearby storm drains and points where wash water can enter the stormwater system.
  • Prior to washing, confirm equipment is in proper working order, free of leaks and damage.

How to dispose of wastewater

Zero discharge

  • All solid and liquid waste from the cleaning process is to be disposed of at the Shephard Landfill (Industrial) Car Wash Disposal, where it is treated before being discharged.
  • An industrial permit application must be completed to dispose of wastewater at the Shephard Landfill (Industrial) Carwash Disposal.

Discharge to the Wastewater System

Drains connected to the Wastewater System (i.e. floor drains and sinks) may be used to dispose of wastewater if the following conditions are met:

  • Does not contain any substances listed in Schedule A Prohibited Substances.
  • Does not exceed any concentrations listed in Schedule B Restricted Substances and Schedule C Surcharge Substances.

If the wastewater exceeds Wastewater Bylaw limits, the wastewater can be disposed of at other waste treatment facilities where industrial wastewater is permitted.

What to do if you have an unintentional release

In the event of an unintentional release, it is important to act quickly to prevent the material from entering the wastewater or stormwater system. You should notify:

  • 911
  • The City of Calgary by contacting 311.
  • The owner of the premise where the release occurred.
  • Any other person that may be affected by the release.

For any spills that could harm the environment you will also need to report the spill to Alberta Environment & Protected Areas (1-800-222-6514).

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