Can I drain pool water into the street in Austin?

Not without checking the discharge rules. Austin prohibits filter backwash into a storm drain, street curb or waterway; ordinary pool water has different conditions and must meet the City's water-quality requirements.

Backwash is not ordinary pool water

Austin directs filter backwash to a vegetated area on your property. Sanitary-sewer disposal requires prior Austin Water approval.

Before draining the pool

Water sent to a storm drain must be free of chlorine, salt, algae, stagnant water, paint chips and maintenance debris. Austin requires testing and pH between 6.0 and 10.5. Saltwater is not eligible for that route.

Plan the route before construction

Ask the builder to show where maintenance water will go. Include the route and filter choice in the design discussion before equipment is installed.

When to call a pro

Ask a pool professional to confirm the draining method and disposal route. Call to be connected with an independent local pool business; Austin Water handles sewer-discharge approval.