An illicit discharge is any discharge to a municipal storm sewer drainage system that is not composed entirely of rainwater.  If an activity results in anything other than rain to flow off of a property (called stormwater), there could be an illicit (or illegal) discharge.   

Examples of materials that should NOT flow off your property or enter into the storm sewer drainage system include: 

• sewage
• industrial waste
• suds/soap
• swimming pool water
• oil
• grease
• paint
• solvents
• harsh chemicals
• waste-water
• yard waste (leaves and grass clippings)
• litter/ trash

These types of materials should also be properly stored or disposed of by a licensed disposal facility. This will prevent rain or wind from carrying them into streets, driveways, parking lots, and sidewalks, etc. which ultimately drain into the storm sewer.

Water used in common residential outdoor activities, such as watering lawns, gardens, and trees is allowed.

The County's regulations regarding illicit discharge are located in the Storm Drainage Ordinance, Section 19.2.

 Report a Suspected Illicit Discharge

The County conducts an annual random screening of storm drain outfalls as well as a routine survey of water flowing from commercial and industrial properties.  The overall goal of the IDDE program is to identify illegal dumping activities, unauthorized storage of materials, and illicit discharges and to remove such unpermitted discharges by issuing warnings and violations notices when appropriate.

For more information, please read Business and Homeowners Guide to Charles County’s IDDE Program.