Report Illicit Storm Drain Discharges - Anaheim

Utilities and Infrastructure California 3 Minutes Read · published February 09, 2026 Flag of California

Anaheim, California residents and businesses must prevent and report illicit discharges to the storm drain system to protect local waterways and comply with municipal rules. This guide explains what to report, how to report online or by phone, the agencies that enforce stormwater rules in Anaheim, and practical steps you can take immediately to stop contamination. Use the official contact and reporting routes below to file complaints, preserve evidence, and follow up with the city.

What to report

  • Suspicious colored or odorous flows entering gutters, drains, creeks, or channels.
  • Illicit dumping of motor oil, paint, solvents, sewage, or washwater to storm drains.
  • Construction site runoff or uncovered stockpiles causing sediment in drains.
  • Illegal connections discharging wastewater to storm drains.
Report visible discharge immediately and avoid contact with contaminated water.

How to report

To report an illicit discharge to Anaheim, use the citys official Public Works reporting portal or call the Public Works/Stormwater hotline. Provide location, description, time observed, source if known, and photos. For online reporting use the city reporting page linked below. Report to Anaheim Public Works[1]

  • Note the date, time, and precise location (nearest address or intersection).
  • Take clear photos or short video of the discharge and any identifying marks on containers or vehicles.
  • Call Anaheim Public Works or the emergency numbers if the discharge is significant or ongoing.
  • Submit photos and a description through the online form or by email if provided by the city.
Preserve evidence and avoid disturbing the scene before city staff arrive when safe to do so.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement of illicit storm drain discharges in Anaheim is handled by the Citys Public Works and Code Enforcement divisions; specific enforcement actions and monetary penalties are outlined by the city and related stormwater permits or ordinances. The citys enforcement and complaint contact is available on the official Code Enforcement/Public Works pages.[2]

  • Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation for repeat or continuing offences: not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: cleanup orders, abatement, repair requirements, and referral to civil or criminal proceedings where applicable.
  • Inspection and investigation by Public Works, Code Enforcement, or Environmental Services staff; hotline and online complaint intake are official pathways.
  • Appeal and review routes: not specified on the cited page; check official enforcement notices for timelines and appeal procedures.
If the official enforcement page does not list penalty amounts, the city will provide details in enforcement notices or the municipal code.

Applications & Forms

Illicit-discharge reporting typically uses an online complaint form or the Public Works intake process; a specific form number or fee is not specified on the cited pages. Contact Public Works or Code Enforcement for available forms and submission instructions.

Common violations

  • Construction stormwater violations (uncovered soil, failing BMPs).
  • Automotive fluids and oil dumped to gutters.
  • Improper washwater from commercial activities draining to storm system.

FAQ

How quickly should I report an illicit discharge?
Report as soon as you observe it; immediate reports help the city contain and investigate the source.
Can I report anonymously?
Many municipal reporting systems allow anonymous complaints, but providing contact information helps investigators follow up.
What evidence should I gather?
Record time, location, photos or video, and any identifying vehicle or container information.

How-To

  1. Identify the exact location and observe safety—do not touch the discharge.
  2. Take photos and note time, weather, and nearby activities or vehicles.
  3. Use the Anaheim Public Works online reporting or call the Public Works hotline to submit the complaint.[1]
  4. Keep records of your report and follow up with the city if the issue persists.

Key Takeaways

  • Report suspected storm drain discharges promptly to reduce environmental harm.
  • Use official Anaheim reporting channels and preserve photos and time/location details.
  • Enforcement may include cleanup orders and other sanctions; specific fines are not specified on the cited pages.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Anaheim - Public Works
  2. [2] City of Anaheim - Code Enforcement

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