Southlake Reminds Residents to Keep Pool Water Out of Storm Drains

As pool season ends, Southlake residents and pool services are being reminded to drain pools carefully and keep chemically treated water out of the storm drain system.

The City of Southlake recommends two options for safely disposing of pool water. The first is draining through the lawn, if the property can safely absorb the water. Before starting, pool water must be dechlorinated to less than 0.1 parts per million and have a pH between 6 and 8, if adjustments are needed.

Residents should also make sure the lawn is free of pet waste, natural debris and excess fertilizer. Pool water should not be drained onto a lawn recently treated with pesticides or fertilizer. Water should be pumped from the deepest part of the pool, with the flow controlled to prevent erosion or runoff into the street or neighboring yards.

Draining across the lawn allows the water to slowly disperse, helping it filter into the ground instead of flowing into a street or storm drain.

If a property cannot safely absorb the water, pool water may be discharged through the sanitary sewer system. Residents must first contact Southlake Public Works and receive approval. The department will coordinate with Wastewater services and confirm that the system can handle the additional water. Public Works can be reached at 817-748-8082 for guidance and instructions.

The City notes that every storm drain in Southlake flows directly into local waterways, including ponds, lakes and creeks. Pool water may contain chlorine and other chemicals that can harm the environment if improperly disposed of.

Discharging pool water into the storm drain system in a way that may adversely affect water quality violates the City of Southlake Code of Ordinances, Chapter 9.5, Article IX. This includes water with chlorine levels above 0.1 ppm, a pH outside the range of 6 to 8, and filter backwash discharged into storm drains.

Residents can learn more through the City’s Stormwater Quality webpage.