add to the "i've seen it all" list

[Invigor]

I'm sure a lot of people already know about this..but I just about fell over when I read this:

Can I wash my car on the street?

Under the Drainage Bylaw PDF File (37KB), you may use only water to clean your car. If you are washing your car on the street, you must not use any kind of soap or anything other than water, and your car must not be overly dirty. The Drainage Bylaw states that only water may enter the storm sewers.
What is the fine for washing my car with soap on the street?

The minimum fine for disobeying this section of the drainage bylaw is $500.
Can I use biodegradable soap to wash my car on the street?

No. Soaps and detergents are prohibited substances under the Drainage Bylaw. Only potable water can be used to wash vehicles.

source: http://content.calgary.ca/CCA/City+H...d+Drainage.htm

is this something normal for large cities? I just couldn't believe it!