Pomona Illicit Storm Drain Discharge Rules

Utilities and Infrastructure California 3 Minutes Read ยท published February 21, 2026 Flag of California

Pomona, California requires residents and businesses to prevent and report illicit discharges to the storm drain system to protect water quality and public health. This guide explains where to report visible spills or illegal connections, who enforces the rules, typical enforcement actions, and step-by-step reporting instructions. If you see wastewater, paint, oil, sediments, or other pollutants entering a gutter, catch basin, storm inlet, or open channel, report it immediately so crews can contain and clean up the discharge and preserve downstream creeks and the San Gabriel River.

Report visible spills right away to reduce environmental harm.

Penalties & Enforcement

The City of Pomona enforces stormwater and illicit discharge controls through its public-works and environmental compliance programs; specific fine amounts and per-day penalties are not specified on the cited pages below [2]. Enforcement tools commonly used by the city include administrative orders, work notices, cleanup and abatement directives, referral to state or regional water boards, civil actions, and criminal prosecution when warranted.

  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page; contact the enforcing office for current schedules.
  • Escalation: first notices and correction orders typically precede civil fines or abatement; exact tiers not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: administrative orders, mandatory cleanup, property liens for abatement costs, and referral to courts or state regulators.
  • Enforcer and complaints: Public Works/Stormwater or Environmental Services divisions handle inspections and complaints; use the city reporting portal or phone line to file a report [1].
  • Inspection and evidence: inspectors may document source, take photos, collect samples, and require remediation or permit review.
  • Appeals and review: appeal routes vary by order type; time limits and appeal procedures are not specified on the cited municipal pages and must be confirmed with the enforcing office.
Preserve evidence: photograph the discharge, note time and location, and avoid disturbing the scene.

Applications & Forms

No single statewide incident-reporting form is required by the city pages cited; the City of Pomona provides an online reporting form and phone reporting for spills and illicit discharges. Permits or stormwater pollution prevention plan (SWPPP) requirements may apply for construction or industrial activities; check Planning/Building or Public Works for permit forms.

How to Report an Illicit Storm Drain Discharge

  • Immediate hazards: call emergency services if the discharge threatens public safety.
  • City report: use Pomona's online stormwater report or phone line to submit location, description, and photos [1].
  • Evidence: note date, time, weather, upstream activities, and take clear photos of the source and drainage path.
  • Follow-up: provide contact details if you can, so inspectors may request more information.
A quick report speeds containment and reduces cleanup costs.

FAQ

How do I report a storm drain discharge in Pomona?
Call the City of Pomona stormwater reporting line or submit the online report with location and photos; see city reporting resources below [1].
What substances are illegal to discharge to the storm drain?
Any non-stormwater waste such as wastewater, motor oil, paint, concrete wash, or chemicals is prohibited from entering the storm drain system.
Will I be fined for reporting a spill?
Reporting as a witness is encouraged; enforcement against responsible parties follows inspection. Specific fine schedules are not specified on the cited municipal pages [2].

How-To

  1. Note the exact location and visible source of the discharge and take photos where safe.
  2. Contain immediate hazards if it is safe and you have the right materials; do not expose yourself to hazardous substances.
  3. Submit a report through the City of Pomona stormwater report portal or call the Public Works/Stormwater line with details and photos [1].
  4. Keep copies of your report and any correspondence; follow up with the city if the problem persists.

Key Takeaways

  • Report visible discharges immediately to limit environmental harm.
  • Enforcement can include orders and cleanup obligations; specific fines are not listed on the cited pages.
  • Construction and industrial sites may need SWPPP or permits; verify with Planning/Building.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Pomona Stormwater report and Public Works information
  2. [2] Pomona Municipal Code via Municode

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