Illicit Discharge

Illicit discharges are generally any discharges into a storm drain system that are not composed entirely of stormwater, and are restricted by Federal, State, and local laws. Illicit discharges are a problem because, unlike wastewater that flows to a wastewater treatment plant, stormwater generally flows to waterways without any additional treatment. Illicit discharges often include pathogens, nutrients, surfactants, and various toxic pollutants. Visible sewage waste, foul odor, suds or other evidence of contamination, are indicators that an illicit discharge is contaminating the storm sewer.

What are examples of illicit discharge?

  • Soil or material discharge into storm drains from remodeling, construction, or industrial/commercial areas
  • Illegal dumping, spills, and other polluted sources
  • Vehicle washing wastewater
  • Pool draining
  • Any car liquids from vehicle maintenance or service stations
  • Autobody/repair facility, or car wash wastewater
  • Carpet cleaning wastewater
  • Manufacturers wastewater
  • Open sewage/sanitary sewer disrupted connection waste
  • Fertilizer, grass clippings, or yard waste
  • Laundry or household product waste
  • Pet waste

What are not examples of illicit discharge?

  • Discharges from firefighting activities
  • De-chlorinated water flushing or draining
  • Lawn watering
  • Water from crawl space pumps
  • Uncontaminated water from the foundation, sump pumps, or footing drains
  • Routine external building or street washing without detergents or solvents
  • Air conditioning condensate

If you see a spill

Call the City at 651-747-2400