Abstract: A device and method for removing petroleum based contaminants from the runoff water that passes into a storm drain. The device is a filter apparatus that can be added to a storm drain or a storm drain assembly containing a filter apparatus. The filter apparatus consists of a filter cartridge containing oil absorbing material. The filter cartridge is suspended below the grate of the storm drain by flexible suspension elements such as chains. The top of each of the flexible suspension elements terminate at an attachment element that engages the grate of the storm grate. As a result, the filter cartridge is suspended directly from the grate so as to not disturbed and the position of the grate.