Vehicle Wash Operations

The Code of Practice for Vehicle Wash Operations is a regulation for managing waste materials generated by routine vehicle washing processes.  Vehicle wash operations include businesses such as commercial car and truck wash operations, fleet operations with wash activities, vehicle dealerships with wash activities, and vehicle maintenance shops with wash activities.  All automotive businesses operating in the City of Abbotsford are required to follow the Code of Practice .  The Code of Practice does not apply to the washing of vehicles by residents.

Substances of concern from vehicle wash operations include total suspended solids (TSS), oil and grease, heavy metals and high levels of acidity or alkalinity.  Although the volume of these materials discharged from individual businesses may be small, the cumulative amount of waste from all businesses within the Abbotsford/Mission service area has the potential to have a significant impact on the environment and solids waste recycling efforts.  If the heavy metals accumulate in the biosolids at the JAMES Treatment Plant , the options for reuse and recycling are limited.  Heavy metals can also accumulate in septic fields and tanks resulting in restricting future land use and the landowner may be liable for clean-up costs.  In addition, the grit and sand generated from wash water can cause structural damage to the sewer system.  By following the Code of Practice , vehicle wash businesses will significantly reduce the amount of contaminants that end up at the JAMES Treatment Plant and eventually in the Fraser River.  Proper management will help ensure environmental protection, human health and structural integrity of the sewer system.

Related Documents:

Code of Practice for Vehicle Wash Operations
Oil-Water Separator Logbook Examples
Frequently Asked Questions - Vehicle Wash Operations