Pool and hot tub owners have an important role to play in protecting our water, wildlife, and plants from high levels of chlorine and other contaminants. To safely dispose of pool and hot tub water, follow these steps:
- Remove the chlorine. Use dechlorination chemicals or leave the pool or hot tub uncovered and untreated for at least two weeks to allow the chlorine to evaporate.
- Use test strips to check that the chlorine is gone.
- Once dechlorinated and any large solids are removed, the water from the pool can be discharged into your yard (not the neighbors’ yard!) or the stormwater system.
Dechlorination supplies and test strips are available from a pool dealer.
Pool Filter Backwash Water
Water from the filter has a high concentration of hair and other contaminants and belongs in the sanitary sewer system — just like water from your toilet or shower. Filter backwash can never go to the stormwater system.