Public Works and Environmental Services

CONTACT INFORMATION: Our administrative offices are open 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Mon - Fri
703-324-5500 TTY 711
12000 Government Center Parkway
Suite 449, Fairfax, Va 22035
Joni Calmbacher
Director, Stormwater Planning

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Car Washing the Right Way

car washIn Fairfax County, the storm drainage system is separate from the sanitary sewer system. Storm drains convey stormwater runoff directly to local creeks and streams. Runoff is not treated before entering the waterways.

Car wash water may contain oils, greases, detergents and other materials that pollute water and harm fish and wildlife that live in streams.

Fairfax County’s Stormwater Management Ordinance (Chapter 124, Article 9 Section 3 of the Fairfax County Code) prohibits unpermitted commercial car wash water from entering the storm drainage system or streams. Businesses must comply with this regulation.

Currently, individual residential car washing is exempt from this regulation. Residents are encouraged to use the recommendations, listed below, to reduce the impact on the environment.

Car washing as a noncommercial fundraising activity is permitted by the Code of Virginia Title 15.2-2114.1 if the washing uses only biodegradable, phosphate-free, water-based cleaners as described below.

General Recommendations To Prevent Wash Water From Entering Storm Drains

  • Wash cars in an area away from storm drains or on an area that allows wash water to infiltrate into the ground.
  • Direct wash water away from storm drains onto a grassy area.
  • Protect storm drains by blocking with an impermeable barrier.

Recommendations For Washing Your Car At Home

  • Wash on a grassy surface so the water can infiltrate into the ground.
  • Use the minimum amount of detergent necessary.
  • Use products that are biodegradable, phosphate-free, water-based, and pH neutral.
  • Conserve water by turning off the hose when not in use.
  • Try a waterless cleaning method.

Recommendations and Requirements for Car Washing Fundraisers (Charity Car Washes)

Charity car washes are required to use biodegradable, phosphate-free, water-based cleaners. In addition, organizations are encouraged to:

  • Follow the recommendations listed above.
  • Minimize water usage.
  • Use hoses with nozzles that automatically turn off when left unattended.
  • Empty buckets of wash water to an indoor drain connected to the public sanitary sewer system.

Commercial Car Washes

A great way to prevent wash water from entering storm drains is to use a commercial car wash. Commercial car washes must comply with the wastewater discharge and plumbing requirements that are specified in Chapter 67.1 and Chapter 65-6-11 of the Fairfax County Code. The code states that all car wash installations shall be equipped with a water recycling system approved by the County Building Official. Additionally, these facilities discharge wash water to the sanitary sewer system. More information about the sanitary sewer system may be found within the industrial waste and pretreatment car wash policy.

Related Resources

Outdoor Vehicle Washing: Options for Businesses

For additional information, email the Stormwater Planning Division or call 703-324-5500, TTY 711.

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