Mayor's Office

Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4)

The City of Flint's Municipal Storm System (MS4) is a drainage system (roads, storm drains, pipes, and ditches, etc.) that is separate from the sewage system. During periods of heavy rain or snow, pollutants are directed to Flint's water shed through the MS4.

Public Education Plan

In the Flint community, an integral component of our environmental stewardship is the comprehensive stormwater management plan. This strategic plan addresses the challenges posed by occasional intense rainfall events, ensuring that our neighborhoods remain resilient and sustainable. Through education and awareness campaigns, the community collaborates to mitigate the impact of heavy rainfall, safeguarding against flooding and contamination.

Report environmental emergencies to the Pollution Emergency Alerting System (PEAS) Hotline at 800-292-4706. 

Oil spill

Illicit Discharge Elimination Program

Our city has implemented a vigilant program to address and report any illicit discharge into the water system. This initiative empowers community members to be the eyes and ears of our shared ecosystem. The city actively investigates and takes necessary actions to prevent further harm to our water resources.

Report improper disposal of pollutants or the illicit release of substances into storm drains.

Municipal Storm Sewer Outfall Locations

Explore our user-friendly map to view rivers, streams, culverts, and storm sewer outfall locations throughout the City of Flint. By accessing the interactive features, community members can gain valuable insights into the city’s stormwater management infrastructure.

Documentation Reference

Browse documentation on the City of Flint's Municipal Storm System.

Resource Description Actions
Snow Pollution Snow’s ability to absorb noise creates a quieter world of white setting the scene for the holiday season. However, snow absorbs much more than just the noise. Open File | Download
Protect Our Environment and Keep Drains Clear of Fat, Oil & Grease Fat, oil, and grease (FOG) in sewer pipes can create severe pollution problems in our City. FOG enters sewer pipes through restaurant, residential, and commercial sink drains. Once in the sewer, FOG sticks to the pipe and thickens. Here are some tips on how to keep FOG out of our sewer systems. Open File | Download
Proper Medication Disposal for Water Quality Never place expired pharmaceuticals down a toilet or sink, where they can enter our drinking water supply. Contact your local fire or police station to verify if they accept drop off during normal business hours. Open File | Download
Erosion and Sediment Control Inspection and Maintenance Erosion and sediment controls (ESCs) need regular inspections to ensure their effectiveness, and many permitting authorities require construction staff to perform self-inspections. ESC inspections fall into three categories: routine inspections, inspections before rain events and inspections after rain events. Open File | Download
Stormwater Tip Sheet for Business Construction When water from rain, snow, or sleet ows over the ground, it becomes “stormwater.” When stormwater ows through a construction site, it can pick up sediment, oil, and chemicals and carry them downstream to local water bodies. That’s why it’s important for construction sites to protect the community by putting up special fences, barriers, and truck pads to prevent pollution in our rivers, lakes, and streams. Open File | Download
Stormwater General Construction Site Waste Management Construction staff manage and dispose of building materials and other construction site wastes to reduce the risk of pollution to stormwater. Practices such as trash disposal, recycling, proper material handling, and spill prevention and cleanup measures can reduce the potential for stormwater flow to mobilize construction site wastes and contaminate surface or ground water. Open File | Download
Keep Sewers Clear: No Wipes Down the Drain! Protect your pipes and the environment by avoiding flushing wipes, diapers, and other non-biodegradable items. Dispose of them properly to prevent costly backups and environmental damage. Open File | Download
Volunteer Opportunity: Storm Drain Awareness Campaign Join the Flint River Watershed Coalition's volunteer effort to educate Genesee County residents on reducing contaminants in the Flint River. Perfect for groups, ages 7+, with flexible scheduling from June to October. Open File | Download
Rain Garden Guide: Design and Maintenance Tips Learn how to create a beautiful and functional rain garden to manage stormwater runoff, protect local freshwaters, and boost native plant populations. Open File | Download
DIY Rain Barrel Assembly Guide Step-by-step instructions for assembling a rain barrel to collect rainwater, complete with parts list and tools needed. Efficient, eco-friendly solution for watering landscaping. Open File | Download
Protect Freshwaters from Animal Waste Prevent contamination by promptly disposing of pet waste in the trash. Pick up before lawn watering and avoid feeding waterfowl to minimize harmful bacteria in storm water runoff. Spread awareness about the importance of responsible pet waste management for water quality. Open File | Download
Citizen’s Guide to Native Landscaping Enhance water quality and biodiversity with native plants. Reduce water usage, erosion, and pollution while creating habitat for wildlife. Open File | Download
Household Hazardous Waste Protect our waterways by responsibly managing hazardous products. Store them properly, dispose of them at designated locations, and explore eco-friendly alternatives for cleaning and maintenance. Open File | Download
FOG Prevention Safeguard our environment by keeping drains free of Fat, Oil & Grease. Avoid pouring grease down drains or garbage disposals to prevent costly blockages and pollution. Open File | Download
Fall Lawn Care & Composting for Water Quality Enhance your lawn while protecting waterways. Use eco-friendly practices like mulching clippings and composting to nurture healthy landscapes. Open File | Download
Citizen’s Guide: Winter Practices & Year-round Pollution Prevention Embrace eco-friendly snow and ice removal. Reduce salt usage, choose alternatives, and adopt sustainable landscaping for a cleaner environment. Open File | Download
Protect Waterways: Simple Tips for Vehicle Care Caring for vehicles impacts Kawkawlin River and Saginaw Bay health. Simple tips like grass washing and eco-cleaners prevent pollution. Responsible maintenance safeguards waterways. Open File | Download
MS4 Permit Authorization to discharge under the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System. Contact Megan McReynolds at [email protected] or 248-836-4045 with questions. Open File | Download
Storm Water Management Program This document outlines the City of Flint (City) Storm Water Management Program (SWMP),which is required under Part I.B of National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Permit Number MI0053864 (the permit) for regulating discharges from the City municipal separate storm sewer system (MS4). Open File | Download

Public Education Events

Through education and awareness campaigns, the community collaborates to mitigate the impact of heavy rainfall, safeguarding against flooding and contamination. Stay up to date with our latest community events.

Contact Municipal Storm System

Sewer System Maintenance
Jiggy Mitchell
HOURS
24/7

Report Sewer Issues

Report any illicit discharge or sewer blockage issues here. Our team is notified 24/7 and will respond ASAP.

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