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Man dumping concrete washout into storm drainIllicit Discharge

An illicit discharge is the direct or in-direct discharge of of anything not entirely comprised of stormwater to the storm sewer system.  These can come from a number of sources including industrial, commercial and residential properties.  Examples can include the following:

  • Paint
  • Gasoline and oils
  • Car wash wastewater and detergents
  • Household hazardous wastes
  • Yard waste (i.e. grass clippings, leaves)
  • Concrete washouts
  • Chlorinated swimming pool water
Septic tank effluent and illegal sanitary sewer connections (sanitary laterals or floor drains which are connected to a storm intake) are also considered illicit discharges.  There are some exceptions which include uncontaminated groundwater.  Those connections are generally discharging building foundation drainage via sump pumps.

Bettendorf City Code Title 9 - Stormwater Management prohibits the discharge of anything other than stormwater, allowable non-stormwater, and pollutants for which an NPDES permit has been issued, to enter the City storm sewer system.

If residents observe a situation where they believe an illicit discharge has occurred, please call the City of Bettendorf Stormwater Hotline at (563) 344-4084 or email the Public Works Department.