What is Illicit Discharge?
An illicit discharge is defined as any discharge to the municipal separate storm sewer system that is not composed entirely of stormwater. These non-stormwater discharges occur due to illegal connections to the storm drain system from commercial establishments. As a result of these illicit connections, contaminated wastewater enters into storm drains or directly into local water ways without receiving treatment from a wastewater treatment plant.
Illicit connections may be intentional or unknown to the business owner. These connections are often due to the floor drains connected to the storm drainage system.
Pollution Concern Hotline
A complaint hotline is a dedicated phone number directed to the Stormwater Utility where citizens can easily report illicit discharge and pollution concerns. The Stormwater Utility will investigate the illicit discharge complaint and figure out where the discharge is originating and follow-up with correction and enforcement action.
- Illicit discharges into our rivers and waterways from storm sewers is pollution.
- If it doesn't look right or smell right, then it isn't right for our river!
If you see stormwater pollution, call the Illicit Discharge Hotline at 262-532-4804. We need you to be our eyes and noses!