Illegal dumping and illicit discharges may result in rain and flood water being diverted into areas designed for drainage. Trash, grass clippings, fertilizer, pet waste, paint products, motor oil, and other chemicals can be picked up by rainwater flow and are deposited into the storm drain system. Illegal dumping is against the law!

What You Should Do if You See Illegal Dumping or an Illicit Discharge:

Illegal dumping and illicit discharges are a major cause of stormwater pollution. Public witness complaints provide the most common source of information. For questions pertaining to illicit discharges, please call 720-977-6256. To report Illegal Dumping or Illicit Discharges please fill out the Code Violation Form at the City Development Department (9500 Civic Center Dr., Thornton, CO). You may also send an email to code@cityofthornton.net or call 303-538-7517. When a complaint is received, Code Compliance investigates the claim, and when possible, assembles evidence for prosecution. The case is then released to the appropriate city, county, or federal authorities.

Federal, state, and local laws prohibit the discharge of certain non-stormwater to the storm drain system. The purpose of these regulations is to protect the quality of the nation's surface water resources by minimizing contamination associated with urban activities.

Recognizing Illegal Dumping or Illicit Discharges

Indications of Possible Illegal Dumping or Illicit Discharges

Unusual color or cloudiness	Algae
Stron pungent or musty odor	Dead vegetation or inhibited growth
Floating debris	Pipe Corrosion
Surface scum or foam	Stains on channel bottom or sides
Oil Sheen	Dead animals

The following PDF is designed to assist you in recognizing potential illegal dumping or illicit discharges into the storm drain system.

NPDES Discharge Examples