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1. What is an illicit discharge?

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) defines illicit discharges in general as any discharge into a storm drain system that is not composed entirely of stormwater. The exceptions include water from fire fighting activities, discharges from de-chlorinated waterlines, fire hydrant flushing and discharges from facilities already under an National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permit.

2. Why are illicit discharges a problem?

Illicit discharges are a problem because unlike wastewater, which 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.

3. What are examples of illicit discharges?

Illicit discharges are activities that may allow for waste water to enter into a storm drain, ditch, or waterway, for example:

• Damaged sanitary sewer lines or sewer cross connections to stormwater systems
• Erosion of dirt or landscaping materials being swept into a storm drain or water body (including from construction sites)
• Improper disposal of household or other hazardous materials, including paints and stains
• Improper pet waste disposal
• Improper storage of oil, pesticides, dirt, or fertilizers
• Leaking dumpsters
• Motor vehicle fluid spills or illegal disposal into a storm drain
• Septic system failure
• Vehicle wash water from loading areas in the vicinity of storm drain inlets

Examples of what you might see that result from illicit discharges:

• Discoloration of water
• Foamy/soapy water in the waterway
• Muddied water from sediment and dirt
• Oily/greasy sheen in the stream water
• Overflowing manholes

4. How can I report an illicit discharge?

If you encounter what you suspect to be an illicit discharge during normal business hours (weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) please notify Bill Campbell, Manager of the Marshall Township Municipal Sanitary Authority at 724-935-3090.

For emergency situations that include hazardous waste spills, spills of raw sewage, gasoline, or other hazardous materials, dial 911.