Report Illicit Storm Drain Discharge - Birmingham
In Birmingham, Alabama, illicit discharges to the storm drain system threaten public health and waterways. If you observe a suspicious spill, visible sewage, muddy runoff from a site, or any material entering a storm inlet, document the scene and report it to the City of Birmingham Stormwater Program immediately via the official site: City Stormwater Program[1].
What to report
Report discharges that are not composed entirely of stormwater, including chemical spills, sewage, washwater, petroleum, or persistent muddy runoff from construction and yard work.
- Visible sewage or wastewater entering a drain or ditch.
- Oil, gasoline, or other petroleum sheens on surface water.
- Construction sediment or soil leaving a site and flowing to a storm inlet.
- Illegal dumping of solids, chemicals, or yard waste into gutters or drains.
Penalties & Enforcement
Controlling instruments for illicit discharges are set out in the Birmingham municipal code and enforced by the City of Birmingham Public Works and Stormwater divisions. Specific monetary fines and daily rates are not specified on the cited pages; see the municipal code and enforcement contacts cited below for the controlling text and procedures.[2]
Typical enforcement approach includes investigation, written abatement orders, required corrective work, and, where applicable, civil penalties or referral to municipal court. If the municipal code does not list a fixed fine amount on the referenced page, the exact penalty amount is not specified on the cited page.
Applications & Forms
The City provides an online complaint/report form for stormwater and illicit discharge incidents; no separate printed permit or form specific to an illicit discharge is published on the cited stormwater page. For construction sites, sediment and erosion control permitting and plan submittal instructions are handled through Planning and Building Services and may require separate permitting.
- Investigation and inspection by Public Works or Stormwater staff.
- Written abatement orders and deadlines for remediation.
- Monetary penalties or civil action where deemed necessary (amounts not specified on cited page).
- Referral to municipal court for unresolved or repeat violations.
Action steps
Take clear photos, note the time and location, stop the source if safe and lawful to do so, and report to the City with your observations and contact information so inspectors can follow up.
FAQ
- How do I report an illicit storm drain discharge?
- Use the City of Birmingham Stormwater online report form or call the Public Works stormwater contact; include location, description, photos, and time.
- Can I remain anonymous when reporting?
- Yes, the city accepts reports from anonymous sources, but providing contact information helps investigators follow up for clarification.
- What if I see a hazardous chemical or a threat to health?
- Call 911 immediately for hazards or threats to life, then notify the City Stormwater Program through the official reporting channel.
How-To
- Recognize the discharge: look for colored sheens, odors, foam, or continuous flow into storm inlets.
- Document: photograph the discharge, note the nearest address or intersection, date, and time.
- Secure the scene if safe: stop vehicle leaks or contain small non-hazardous releases with absorbent material if trained and equipped.
- Report: submit the online report at the City Stormwater Program site or call the Public Works stormwater line and provide your documentation.
- Follow up: keep the incident reference number and check back with the department for remedial actions and case closure.
Key Takeaways
- Report quickly with photos and precise location details.
- Use the City Stormwater online form or Public Works contacts for official reporting.
Help and Support / Resources
- City of Birmingham - Stormwater Program
- Birmingham Code of Ordinances
- City of Birmingham - Public Works