Illicit Discharge

What is illicit discharge? 

Illicit discharge is any discharge in the municipal separate storm sewer system (MS4), including storm drains, basins, pipes, gutters, pipes, and other collection structures, that is not entirely made up of stormwater. 

 

Why is illicit discharge a problem? 

Illicit discharge puts harmful pollutants into stormwater. MS4s cannot treat polluted water since stormwater is not processed by wastewater treatment plants but rather transported directly into streams and rivers. Using MS4s for anything other than stormwater disposal is illegal. 

 

Examples of illicit discharge: 

  • Animal waste 

  • Construction runoff (paint, concrete) 

  • Chemical, gas, or oil spills 

  • Household waste (cooking grease, detergents, soapy water) 

  • Improper auto fluid disposal  

  • Leaf and yard waste 

  • Litter 

  • Pesticides and fertilizers 

  • Pool and spa discharge 

  • Residential and commercial dumping 

  • Septic seepage 

  • Sewage overflows 

 

Report an Illicit Discharge or Stormwater Concern 

We encourage residents and business owners to monitor MS4s near their property for any illicit discharge or illegal dumping.

If you notice any issues, please report it immediately via the Citizen Problem Reporter. Select “Illicit Discharge” under the “Category” dropdown menu. 

To contact the Department of Environmental Protection (Southeast Regional Office) directly: