Reporting Illicit Discharges

 Because there are hundreds of miles of storm sewers within the City of Tampa, it is a daunting task to identify and eliminate all illicit discharges that may be occurring.  You can help by reporting suspected illicit discharges of chemicals, paint, oil and grease, yard waste, fertilizer and other questionable materials to local authorities so that they can be investigated and resolved.

Local ordinances deem it illegal to dispose of any pollutants to the storm sewer. Disposing of pollutants via the storm sewer is considered an illicit discharge and is strictly prohibited to protect receiving waters.   An illicit discharge is defined as the intentional disposal of any material by placement of and/or directing any material into the stormwater system. 

Illicit Discharges harm our waterways and may cause flooding:

• The disposal of toxic materials and household chemicals may have immediate impacts on water quality resulting in fish kills. 
• Yard waste and lawn clippings can cause algae blooms which cloud the water and lower the amount of oxygen available for aquatic organisms. 
• Trash and debris can clog the stormwater system resulting in flooding, putting vehicles and structures at risk.
• Pet waste contains bacteria that may be harmful to humans when recreating in area waters.
• Soil and sediment cloud the water prohibiting plant growth and a healthy population of fish.
• Pool discharges and other nonstormwater discharges contain chemicals that degrade water quality.