Illegal Dumping

Only Rain Down the Storm Drain

Storm drains are designed to carry rainwater away from streets and neighborhoods. Unlike wastewater from your home, stormwater is not treated before entering local waterways. That’s why anything other than rain that enters a storm drain is considered illegal dumping, also known as illicit discharge.

Why It Matters

Illegal dumping happens when anything other than natural precipitation enters the storm drain system.

Common examples include:

Grass clippings and leaves
Pool water
Trash and litter
Paint, oil and other chemicals
Soap, cleaning products and dirty wash water
Yard waste, pet waste and other debris

Illegal dumping can pollute local waterways, harm wildlife and contribute to neighborhood flooding by clogging storm drains. Pollutants that enter storm drains can flow directly to streams, rivers and the Chesapeake Bay.

Help Prevent Storm Drain Pollution

Simple actions at home can help keep pollutants out of local waterways:

Sweep driveways, sidewalks and curbs instead of hosing them down
Pick up litter and pet waste
Never blow or rake leaves and grass clippings into streets or storm drains
Dispose of paints, oils and chemicals through approved household hazardous waste collection programs
Use wet cleaning methods – like pressure washing or car washing – only when adequate precautions are taken to prevent the wash water from entering the storm drain system
Store chemicals and hazardous materials in covered areas and off the ground
Keep trash and recycling cart lids closed
Use fertilizers and pesticides sparingly and away from curbs, gutters and driveways
Maintain vehicles and septic systems to prevent leaks

See Something? Report It.

Contact your local stormwater department if you observe:

Someone dumping materials into a storm drain
Water flowing in a storm drain or ditch when it has not rained for 72 hours
Strong odors, oily sheens or unusual discoloration in stormwater

Reporting pollution helps protect local waterways and prevent larger environmental problems.

For Businesses

Businesses play an important role in preventing stormwater pollution.

Inspect dumpsters, recycling containers and oil collection areas regularly
Keep lids closed to prevent contact with rainwater
Provide trash and cigarette disposal receptacles for customers
Pick up litter around your property regularly
Never discharge wastewater into storm drains or waterways
Follow approved disposal procedures for wash water and wastewater
Direct wash water only to approved sanitary sewer locations or landscaped areas with permission from the property owner
Make sure landscaped areas can absorb water without causing runoff, pollution or erosion

If your business generates wastewater, contact HRSD for guidance on proper disposal methods.

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