Illicit Discharge

An Illicit Discharge is any runoff to the ground or into a storm sewer that is not made up entirely of stormwater. Illicit Discharge is harmful because untreated stormwater runoff can contribute high levels of pollutants into receiving waterbodies, degrade water quality and threaten aquatic, wildlife, and human health. These pollutants include heavy metals, toxics, oil and grease, solvents, nutrients, viruses, and bacteria. 

Illicit Discharge Examples 

Sanitary wastewater; septic tank effluent; car wash wastewaters; improper oil disposal; radiator flushing disposal; laundry wastewaters; spills from roadway accidents; improper disposals of auto and household toxics. 

Why Illicit Discharge is Harmful

Untreated stormwater runoff can contribute high levels of pollutants into receiving waterbodies, degrade water quality, and threaten aquatic wildlife, and human health. These pollutants include heavy metals, toxics, oil and grease, solvents, nutrients, viruses, and bactaria. 

What You Can Do

You can help to minimize illicit discharges by disposing of waste in a proper manner. 

• Take used motor oil and automotive fluids to a participating recycling center. 
• Follow label directions regarding containers disposal of cleaners, solvents, and paints. 
• Compost or bag yard waste and remember the Meridian Waste offers weekly yard waste pickup. 

If an Illicit Discharge is discovered, please contact the City’s Public Works Department at (636) 695-4221.