An illicit discharge is defined by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as any discharge into to a storm sewer system that is not composed entirely of rain water. Illicit discharges occur when pollutants are directly poured into a storm sewer, ditch or stream, as well as when pollutants are picked up by rain water and carried to stormwater infrastructure. Please see our Illicit Discharge into Storm Sewers Ordinance, section six (6) for exceptions.

Examples

Examples of illicit discharges:

• Connections from washing machines, dishwasher, toilets, floor drains, or sinks
• Paint, cleaners, or chemicals
• Overflowing sanitary sewers
• Leaking septic tanks and failing septic tanks
• Oil, gas and car fluids
• Cooking oil and grease
• Litter and illegal dumping