Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination
MCM 3: Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination
Illicit discharge is any discharge that is not entirely composed of storm water to a municipal separate storm sewer (MS4), which includes roads with drainage systems, municipal streets, catch basins, curbs, gutters, ditches, man-made channels, or storm drains that are owned or operated by any public body. When something other than clean water is flowing out of a pipe or into a waterway is discovered, it is a polluted discharge. For example, a failing septic system may have a sulfur-smelling (rotting eggs) liquid flowing out of a pipe and into a waterway. Water in a ditch with an oily sheen may also be the result of illicit discharge.
If an illicit discharge is discovered, report the pollution by completing an ILLICIT DISCHARGE REPORT FORM and return it to Soil & Water as soon as possible. Soil & Water coordinates illicit discharge investigations, performs water quality testing on-site, determines discharge source, and works with landowners to eliminate the discharge.
For more information on illicit discharges and how to detect them, click here!
To learn about Licking County Health Department's IDDE program, click here.
