Pet Waste and Animal Manure

If pet waste and animal manure are left on the ground, pollutants like nutrients, bacteria, parasites, and viruses can flow into streams and lakes with rainwater runoff. To prevent water pollution, pick up after pets and clean areas where animals live.

If you see stormwater pollution, call the Stormwater Helpline at 919-996-3940 or email IllegalDischarge@raleighnc.gov.

Remember to "Scoop it, Bag it, Bin it"

• Remember to bring a bag on your walks
• Picking up pet waste protects the health of your pet and everyone’s local waterways.
• Use a trash bin, whether it’s a personal, community, or a city-provided one.
  • Please do not throw bags in the storm drain, these lead directly to creeks and streams!
• Don’t forget to pick up pet waste in your own backyard too, especially if you have a stream or creek.

Have livestock or other animals?

• Composting is one of the cheapest and most effective ways to manage livestock animal waste to reduce nutrient and bacteria pollution.
• Install a berm or hay bale buffer between livestock areas and creeks or streams.
• Be sure to follow all Animal Feeding Operations Rules and Statutes as directed by the State of North Carolina.