Discharges from swimming pools result from the backwashing of filters or from the draining of pools either at the end of the swimming season or for periodic maintenance. This water often contains pool treatment chemicals that can cause damage to the receiving environment. The dis
Discharges from swimming pools result from the backwashing of filters or from the draining of pools either at the end of the swimming season or for periodic maintenance. This water often contains pool treatment chemicals that can cause damage to the receiving environment. The discharges from commercial and public bathing pools are regulated by a New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection permit. Discharges from residential pools are allowed through the town’s stormwater discharge permit but it is expected that residents will follow the best management practices outlined in the state wide permit. These practices include:
- Making sure the discharge flow is regulated so the amount of water and the rate of flow does no physical damage to the receiving environment. If the discharge is from the filter backwash the amount of water is usually low and the discharge can be kept on the property and the water will filter into the ground and replenish the ground water supply. If the discharge is from emptying the pool, it should be directed to the nearest water course or storm sewer. If the discharge is directed over the ground, the rate should be slow enough that it does not cause erosion of the soil. If the discharge is direct to a stream or storm drain it should be slow enough not to scour the stream bottom and stir up sediments.
- Making sure the discharge does not contain a high amount of suspended solids. Usually filter backwash is cloudy and full of 