Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination

What is an Illicit Discharge?

 

Illicit means illegal. An illicit discharge is any disposal of any substance other than stormwater into the stormwater system. An illicit connection is any connection of wastewater into the stormwater system. An example of this might be a connection from a bathroom or a washing machine. The accidental spill or leak of an unsafe substance is also an illicit discharge.

How Does That Cause Water Pollution?

 

The stormwater system collects all the rainwater that runs over hard surfaces, like pavement and rooftops. This stormwater runs along the curb and gutter and then drains into a basin or an inlet. The stormwater and any pollutants it has picked up go to the nearest body of water. Anything that enters the stormwater system besides rainfall is considered an illicit discharge. This violates the City of Durham stormwater ordinance. Water pollution can damage fish and wildlife. It can also make activities such as swimming and fishing unsafe. Keeping pollution out of stormwater protects public health and the environment.