Pollution from pet waste provides a very serious threat to our environment.  Although it is not the most noticeable form of pollution, animal waste left on the ground can be washed into storm drains from rain and melting snow and ice.  Once it has been washed into storm drains, the waste flows to rivers, lakes, oceans, and even drinking water.  With its high concentration of bacteria and disease-causing microorganisms, animal waste poses a serious pollution threat to everyone within the community.

In order to keep animal waste from contaminating our community, anyone who walks a pet should properly dispose of waste by picking it up, wrapping it, and either placing it into the trash or flushing it UNWRAPPED down the toilet. 

Pet owners and keepers are required to properly and immediately dispose of any pet waste deposited on any public or private property not owned or possessed by that person.  The only exception to this is those people with assistance animals (i.e. Seeing Eye Dogs).

Residents seeking more information can contact the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection's Division of Water Quality or the United States Environmental Protection Agency via the information below.

New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection

Division of Water Quality

Bureau of Nonpoint Pollution Control

Municipal Stormwater Regulation Program

(609) 633-7021

www.njstormwater.org or www.notpointsource.org

United States Environmental Protection Agency www.epa.gov/npdes/stormwater or www.epa.gov/nps