You might not see it, but the water that runs off your driveway in Agoura and Old Agoura can end up in local creeks and the coast. The good news is you can keep that runoff clean with a few simple habits. This guide explains who manages stormwater locally and the easy steps you can take at home to help protect Malibu Creek.
Why stormwater matters here
When it rains or you water the yard, that runoff can flow through storm drains to Malibu Creek and eventually the ocean. The City participates in the Malibu Creek Watershed Management Program to protect local waterways. Regional rules and Total Maximum Daily Loads set targets for pollutants like nutrients, bacteria, sediment, and trash that drive local cleanup efforts. Read about the regional MS4 permit framework.
Who manages stormwater
The City of Agoura Hills Public Works Department runs the local NPDES program, covering public outreach, illicit-discharge response, construction controls, and more. See the City’s NPDES responsibilities. Countywide, Los Angeles County Public Works serves as the principal permittee and supports inspections and citizen reporting. Explore the County stormwater program.
Common pollutants
Typical sources at home include pet waste, fertilizers, soil and sediment, trash, vehicle fluids, and pool chemicals. These can impair creek health and violate permit limits if they reach the storm drain. Check the City’s water-quality focus. Storm drains are not connected to the sanitary sewer.
Yard and landscape basics
Healthy yard habits keep soil and chemicals out of the gutter and save water.
Do this
- Direct roof downspouts to vegetated areas, rain gardens, or rain barrels. Use permeable surfaces where you can. See practical yard tips.
- Choose drought-tolerant or native plants and mulch bare soil to prevent erosion.
- Sweep patios and driveways instead of hosing them down.
- Use fertilizers and pesticides sparingly and never right before rain. Store and dispose of chemicals safely.
Avoid this
- Letting soil, mulch, or debris wash into the street. Cover stockpiles and stabilize bare areas quickly.
- Blowing leaves or grass clippings into the gutter. Bag, compost, or use green waste bins.
Pool and spa tips
Pool water must be clean before any discharge. Prefer draining to the sanitary sewer through an indoor cleanout or tub. If you discharge outdoors, test and confirm chlorine or bromine is at or below 0.1 mg/L and pH is about 6.5 to 8.5, and remove visible contaminants. Review practical pool-draining guidance. Do not release water with algaecides, detergents, heavy salt, or dyes to the storm drain. See additional tips for pools and fountains.
Car care tips
Use a commercial car wash that sends water to the sanitary sewer and often reuses water. If you wash at home, do it on grass or gravel so water soaks in, or use a low-water method and capture runoff. Maintain your vehicle to prevent leaks, and recycle used oil and filters properly. Find simple actions that help.
Project and grading rules
For any yard, driveway, or landscaping work, install basic erosion and sediment controls. Cover stockpiles, protect nearby inlets, stabilize disturbed soil, and avoid working just before rain. Projects that disturb 1.0 acre or more, or are part of a larger plan totaling at least 1 acre, generally require the State Construction General Permit and a SWPPP. Check the construction stormwater rules.
Report problems fast
If you see dumping, a spill, or runoff that looks polluted, call 1-888-CLEAN-LA (1-888-253-2652) or submit a report online. Use the CleanLA resources. For city-specific questions, contact Agoura Hills Public Works through the NPDES page above. For countywide program info, visit Los Angeles County Public Works Stormwater.
Quick checklist
- Pick up pet waste every time and place it in the trash.
- Sweep, don’t hose, driveways and patios.
- Keep oil, paint, and chemicals off the driveway and out of gutters.
- Choose native plants, use mulch, and water wisely.
- Test and dechlorinate pool water before any discharge.
- Cover soil piles and stabilize bare areas during projects.
Protect property value
Clean, well-managed lots show better, reduce maintenance headaches, and lower the risk of citations or costly fixes during escrow. Simple BMPs also help your landscaping last longer and keep neighborhood creeks healthier. That stewardship benefits you and the wider Agoura Hills community.
Ready to plan a project or prep your home for market with eco-smart steps? Reach out to Sarah Quaker for local guidance that connects curb appeal with responsible stormwater practices.
FAQs
What is NPDES and why does it matter here?
- It is the stormwater permit system that guides how the City and County reduce pollution in runoff and protect Malibu Creek and downstream waters.
Can I wash my car in my driveway?
- Yes, but keep wash water out of the gutter by washing on a pervious surface or using a commercial car wash.
How should I drain my pool safely?
- Prefer the sanitary sewer. If discharging outdoors, dechlorinate to 0.1 mg/L or less, keep pH around 6.5 to 8.5, and remove visible contaminants.
Do small DIY landscaping projects need permits?
- Small projects may not need the state permit, but you still must control erosion and sediment. Projects that disturb 1 acre or more require state coverage.
Who do I call to report dumping?
- Call 1-888-CLEAN-LA or submit a report online through the County’s CleanLA resources.
