Illicit Discharge
Navigate
Share on Social
Be The Solution
Be the Solution to stormwater pollution. Report Illicit Discharge to help us protect our most precious resource.
What Is Illicit Discharge?
The U.S. EPA defines an illicit discharge as, “any discharge into an MS4-Municipal Storm Sewer System that is not composed entirely of stormwater, except for discharges allowed under a NPDES permit.” This means that anything other than the water (rain or snow) that falls from the sky and enters a storm drain system is an illicit discharge.
Why are IDDE Efforts Necessary?
Common Types of Illicit Discharge
- Sanitary Wastewater
- Paint & Stains
- Petroleum Products
- Auto & Household Toxins
- Pet Waste
- Yard Waste
- Garbage & Rubbish
- Industrial Waste
- Effluent from Septic Tanks
- Radiator Flushing
- Laundry Wastewater
- Restaurant Grease & Oil
Ways Illicit Discharge Enters Stormwater Systems
1. Direct connections from wastewater pipes.
2. Indirectly from infiltration by cracked sanitary pipes or spills.
3. Oil, household waste, pesticides fertilizers, and pet waste.
Why you should report and prevent an illicit discharge?
The result is untreated discharges that contain pollutants, including oil, heavy metals, bacteria, and excess nutrients from fertilizer, which can harm our water quality, wildlife, and human health.
