The City of Austin storm drain marking program is a hands-on project for volunteers who are interested in educating the public about pollution prevention.
To help prevent dumping in storm drains, volunteers place markers on the drains as a visual reminder that the storm drains run directly to our creeks. Volunteers can also distribute door hangers in the area to remind citizens that rain washes garden chemicals, pet waste, motor oil, and other pollutants from our yards, driveways, sidewalks, and all areas of land into our waterways.
The program runs year-round, so participants can sign up to participate whenever it is convenient for their schedule. The volunteer program is great for individuals or groups. Volunteers ages 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
Checking out storm drain marking kits is available on an appointment only basis.
Participants must be available to attend a short, pre-activity training. Training and supply pickup/drop-off will be at the One Texas Center, 505 Barton Springs Road.
Training hours and supply pickup/drop off hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., by appointment only. Participants have up to one month to mark storm drains when it is convenient for their schedule.
Each kit is good for between one and four people and includes 25 storm drain markers. We can customize your kit. Let us know if you’d like fewer or more markers (up to a maximum of 50 markers per individual and 200 markers per group).
To volunteer to mark storm drains, contact the program coordinator. Include the number of people who will mark drains (and note if any participants are under age 18), the area of town most convenient for you (name a street intersection) or if you are willing to work anywhere there is a need.
For storm drain inquiries not related to volunteering, please call 3-1-1 or 512-974-2000 or use the 3-1-1 mobile app.
Learn how you can Adopt A Storm Drain near you!