Report Illicit Discharge

What an Illicit Discharge Is

All water that goes into a storm pipe, catch basin, or drainage ditch within DeWitt Charter Township eventually travels into the Looking Glass or Grand River Watersheds. An illicit discharge is defined as any discharge to the municipal separate storm sewer system that is not composed entirely of storm water, except for discharges allowed under an National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit or waters used for firefighting operations. These non-stormwater discharges occur due to illegal connections to the storm drain system from commercial, residential, or other establishments.

Why Illicit Discharges Are Harmful

As a result of these illicit connections, contaminated wastewater enters into storm drains or directly into local water ways without receiving treatment from a wastewater treatment plant. Illicit connections may be intentional or unknown to the property owner. An example of an illicit connection is when floor drains are connected to the storm drainage system. Additional sources of illicit discharges are failing septic systems, illegal dumping practices, and the improper disposal of sewage from recreational practices such as boating or camping.

Illicit discharges also can be generated by persons using antiquated methods for tasks such as cleaning pool filters, cleaning paint brushes, cars, washing and other common activities.

Report an Illicit Discharge

If you happen to see something entering or exiting a storm pipe, catch basin or drainage ditch that looks, smells or feels like something other than stormwater, please contact the Clinton County Drain Commission at 989-224-5160.

If you want to learn more about keeping our watershed clean, safe and free of pollutants, please visit the Greater Lansing Regional Committee for Stormwater Management website.