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Sustainable Practices
Much of the stormwater pollution affecting the Indian River Lagoon is from human contaminants. These can be discarded items (wrappers, cigarette butts, food containers) or chemicals (used motor oil, fertilizer, sewage overflow). In addition to minimizing these pollutants, here are some other ways to help preserve our Indian River Lagoon:
- Divert your downspouts to grassy areas rather than a paved surface to minimize runoff traveling to storm drains.
- Install a rain barrel. A rain barrel will save most homeowners about 1,300 gallons of water during the peak summer months. Saving water not only helps protect the environment, it saves you money and energy (decreased demand for treated tap water). Diverting water from storm drains also decreases the impact of runoff to streams. Therefore, a rain barrel is an easy way for you to have a consistent supply of clean, fresh water for outdoor use, FREE. Find out more information about our rain barrel rebate program if you're interested in purchasing a rain barrel.
It is against the law to fertilize in the City of Cocoa between June 1 and September 30 (Section 22-280). In addition, if you reside on the east side of Indian River Drive, or are within 10 feet of any body of water (pond, stream, lake, etc) you are not permitted to use fertilizer throughout the rest of the year (Section 22-284). You can find the full ordinances at our Municode page.
Grass Clippings
Keep grass clippings and yard debris out of curbs, the roadway, and away from inlets/stormdrains.
Water Responsibly
Learn how to establish and maintain a healthy landscape by matching the right plants with existing site conditions. Using Florida-Friendly Landscaping principles will minimize the need for additional resources — such as water, fertilizer, pesticides and labor. For more tips on reducing outdoor water use, visit WaterSense Outdoor. Find more water saving tips at our saving water page.
Pet Waste
Always pick up after your pet. Take your walks in grassy areas, parks or undeveloped areas away from storm drains and waterways to avoid any unintentional runoff into the stormwater system.
Lagoon Loyal Graphics
Lagoon Loyal invites you to download the Lagoon Loyal sticker and yard sign artwork and take to your local printer for use as yard signs or waste bin decals. The file formats are the same, so can be applied as signs and/or decals.
Household Cleaners and Chemicals
- Choose phosphate-free detergents, soaps, and household cleaners.
- Properly dispose of household products that contain chemicals.
Car Care
- Recycle used oil and other automotive fluids at participating service stations or bring them to Brevard County hazardous household collection center.
- Drive your car onto your lawn before washing. This prevents the dirty soapy water from going into the stormdrains.
- NEVER dump chemicals into the street, inlet or stormdrain!
Home Repairs & Improvements
- Before beginning an outdoor project, locate the nearest storm drains. Protect them from debris and other materials.
- Sweep up and properly dispose of construction debris, such as concrete and mortar.
- Purchase and use nontoxic, biodegradable, recycled and recyclable products whenever possible.
Swimming Pool & Spa
- Drain your swimming pool or spa only when a test kit does not detect chlorine levels.
Septic Systems
- Inspect your system every 3 years and pump your tank as necessary (every 3 to 5 years).
- Don’t flush expired or unwanted medications down the sink or toilet. You can safely dispose of medications in the prescription drop off box, located in the lobby of the Cocoa Police Department, located at 1226 W. King Street Cocoa, FL 32922.