The Public Works, Environmental Compliance Division of the city of Simi Valley is reminding residents that water from recreational swimming pools, Jacuzzis, fishponds and fountains often contain chemicals used for sanitizing or cleansing purposes. These chemicals, such as chlorine or copper-based algaecides, may be damaging to the environment if the wastewater is allowed to flow to the Arroyo Simi by way of storm drains.

To drain water from any of these structures, an encroachment appplication and Permit is required and may be obtained from the city's Department of Public Works, City Hall, 2929 Tapo Canyon Road, Simi Valley. There is no fee for this permit.

Discharging is allowed between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m. to assist scheduling of street maintenance activity.

Only rainwater is allowed to enter the storm drain system without a special permit, according to government regulations. Drainage from swimming pools whose chemical levels are within acceptable limits may be discharged under special permit.

Other maintenance discharges from swimming pools, spas and fountains, such as acid wash, filter backwash and plaster wastes, should never be discharged into the street or storm drains.

For more information about stormwater pollution prevention and discharge regulations, please call Kevin Gieschen, environmental compliance program coordinator, at (805) 583-6462.