Help Protect Kitchener’s Waterways: Preventing Spills
What is a “spill”?
A spill is formally defined under the Environmental Protection Act and can be interpreted as the release of a substance into the natural environment from a structure, vehicle, or container that could harm people, property, or the environment. This can include solids, liquids, or gases. Common spill materials include concrete, construction debris, paint, cooking oil, gasoline, or diesel.
Why does it matter?
Since January 2025, the City has received 172 spill reports, affecting 45 local waterways. These spills can damage water quality, harm fish and wildlife, and create safety risks for the community. Even small spills can have a big impact on the environment. Protecting Kitchener’s waterways is a shared responsibility, and everyone has a role to play. The City of Kitchener is asking residents, homeowners, businesses, and contractors to help prevent spills that can harm local creeks, ponds, and rivers.
How can you help?
Residents and Homeowners
-
Store fuels, oils, paints, and chemicals safely in sealed containers and away from any drains.
-
Dispose of household chemicals properly. Use approved household hazardous waste programs.
-
Be cautious during projects, working away from storm drains and having absorbent materials nearby.
-
If a spill happens on your property:
-
Attempt to stop it at the source if safe and try to prevent chemicals from entering storm drains, ditches, or waterways.
-
Contain and absorb the spill where possible. Use materials you may have at home, like kitty litter, sand, soil, absorbent pads or rags to isolate and soak up the liquid.
-
Collect absorbed material for proper disposal. Never wash spills into the streets or drains.
-
Call the City to report the spill.
-
How to report a spill
Quick reporting helps the City respond faster and reduce environmental damage.
-
Call the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks’ Spills Action Centre: 1-800-268-6060; or
-
Call the City’s 24/7 customer service line: 519-741-2345
To learn more about Kitchener’s water systems and how they’re protected, visit Kitchener's Website
Land acknowledgement
The City of Kitchener is situated on the traditional territory of the Chonnonton, Anishinaabeg, and Haudenosaunee Peoples. We recognize our responsibility to act as stewards for the land and honour the original caretakers who came before us. Our community is enriched by the enduring knowledge and deep-rooted traditions of the diverse First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Peoples who live in Kitchener today.