SWEEP
Streets & Walkways Education & Enforcement Program
SWEEP is a Streets Department
program created in June 1991 to educate
Philadelphia citizens about their
responsibilities under the Sanitation
Code. Initially, SWEEP focused on
commercial areas. As the program
grows, officers are expanding their
patrols city-wide.
SWEEP enforces the law against
violators through intensive street patrols
by uniformed enforcement officers.
Through education and enforcement,
SWEEP supports and enhances
individual and community efforts to
maintain a clean city. A clean area
improves the image, environment, and
conditions of business districts and
residential neighborhoods, making it
more aesthetically pleasing to residents,
workers, business owners, and tourists.
Why is SWEEP essential?
A clean city is a better place to live and work. A litter-
free environment will enhance the city’s image and
economic vitality and, as a result, will attract tourists,
shoppers, and businesses. Compliance with the
Sanitation laws is cost effective, since keeping litter off
the streets is less expensive than cleaning them.
How does SWEEP operate?
Specially-trained Sanitation enforcement officers
meet with residents and individuals responsible for
the operation of businesses and apartment buildings
to review clean-up responsibilities. SWEEP officers
will work with residential communities to address
problem locations. In instances of non-compliance,
SWEEP officers issue warnings and citations to the
appropriate individuals.
What are the benefits of SWEEP?
SWEEP is a comprehensive, centralized, and
accessible resource for information about the
Sanitation Code. To help make Philadelphia a cleaner
and safer place to live and do business, SWEEP
increases awareness of the Sanitation Code, reduces
the number of violations, and holds violators
accountable.
How can citizens and business
owners/operators comply with
SWEEP?
Helpful Cleaning Tips:
•All cardboard boxes should be broken down and tied and
set out for trash