Help Us Keep City Storm Drains Clean! Do Not Blow or Rake Lawn Clippings into Storm Drains or Streets

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Maylynne Wilbert, 636-4349, Maylynne.Wilbert@memphistn.gov

Memphis, TN (February 5, 2020) – Disposing of lawn clippings, leaves, or branches into the City’s storm water drainage system is a violation of City Ordinance. The debris collected can create blockages in the storm drain system leading to neighborhood flooding.

The City of Memphis Storm Water Department uses various avenues to educate residents and lawn care companies about the detrimental results of this practice. If necessary, the Department will issue a civil penalty to violators.

A beneficial way to handle lawn clippings and leaves is to scatter them on your lawn. They quickly decompose creating nutrients which are returned to the soil. The lawn clippings can also be used as mulch, which will reduce the amount of water required for flowerbeds. Another option is bagging your leaves for collection by the City.

If you observe anyone, including a lawn care service, disposing of lawn clippings or other waste into the storm water drainage system, please note the time, the location of the incident, the name of the lawn care service and their vehicle license plate number (if applicable), and provide the information to the Storm Water Department at 901-636-4349 to investigate. We appreciate your assistance in keeping our City clean and safe.

PLEASE! BE PROUD OF YOUR CITY. HELP KEEP OUR WATERWAYS CLEAN AND BEAUTIFUL.