Report Illicit Storm Drain Discharges - San Bernardino

San Bernardino, California requires residents and businesses to prevent and report illicit discharges to protect local waterways and comply with stormwater permits. This guide explains how to identify an illicit storm drain discharge, who enforces the rules in San Bernardino, where to file a report, and what to expect after you report. It summarizes official city resources and provides clear action steps for immediate reporting, documenting evidence, and following up with the enforcing agency. Use the official municipal code and City Public Works contact pages for formal procedures and any updates. Municipal code^[1]

What is an illicit storm drain discharge

An illicit discharge is any non-stormwater release to the storm drain system (e.g., sewage, wash water, industrial waste, or other pollutants). Report releases that enter gutters, catch basins, channels, or storm drains immediately to reduce harm to creeks and downstream waters.

How to identify and document a discharge

• Take photos or video showing the discharge source and where it enters the storm drain.
• Record date, time, weather, odor, color, quantity, and any vehicle or business details nearby.
• Note contact attempts and responses if you notify the property owner or site operator.

Where and how to report in San Bernardino

Report illicit discharges to the City of San Bernardino Public Works / Stormwater program. For complaints, use the city contact or Public Works complaint form and, for emergencies presenting immediate threat to public health, call 911. For non-emergencies, submit web or phone reports to Public Works. Public Works contact^[2]

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement authority in San Bernardino is exercised by City Public Works/Environmental Services or the designated stormwater program. The municipal code and stormwater ordinances set the controlling requirements and enforcement procedures; specific fine amounts or schedules are not listed on the cited city pages and are not specified on the cited page. Municipal code^[1]

• Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.
• Escalation (first/repeat/continuing offences): not specified on the cited page.
• Non-monetary sanctions: abatement orders, stop-work or cleanup orders, administrative remedies, and referral to court are described generally; exact procedures not specified on the cited page.
• Enforcer: City of San Bernardino Public Works / Stormwater program; inspections and complaint intake are managed by that office.
• Inspection and complaint pathways: file via the Public Works contact page or phone; emergency threats use 911.
• Appeal/review: appeal routes may include administrative review or municipal code-specified hearings; specific time limits are not specified on the cited page.
• Defences/discretion: permitted discharges, authorized discharges under a permit, or emergency responses may be considered; see municipal code for exceptions or variance provisions.

Applications & Forms

The city maintains contact and reporting methods for stormwater complaints; a specific “illicit discharge” form is not published on the cited city pages. For construction-related stormwater permits, developers use state NPDES construction permits and any city-required local forms; check Public Works for local submission details. Municipal code^[1]

Action steps to report an illicit discharge

• Immediate: stop exposure if safe, contain if possible, and call 911 for hazardous spills.
• Report: use the City Public Works contact page or phone to submit details and media. Public Works contact^[2]
• Document: keep photos, timestamps, witness names, and sample descriptions for enforcement follow-up.
• Follow up: request a complaint or incident number and check back for inspection results or orders.

FAQ

Who enforces illicit discharge rules in San Bernardino?

The City of San Bernardino Public Works / Stormwater program enforces stormwater and illicit discharge rules and coordinates inspections and cleanup.

What should I report?

Report any visible sewage, industrial waste, paint, oil, or other pollutants entering gutters, storm drains, channels, or creeks.

Can I remain anonymous?

Yes, you may request confidentiality, but providing contact details helps investigators follow up; check Public Works reporting options for confidentiality policies.

How-To

1. Photograph the discharge location, source, and any identifying details.
2. Note time, date, weather, and observations (color, odor, flow rate).
3. Report to City Public Works via the official contact page or phone; provide photos and information.
4. Keep a record of the report number and follow up if no action is taken within a reasonable time.
5. If ordered to remediate, complete cleanup and document results with photos and receipts.

Key Takeaways

• Report visible pollution to protect local creeks and comply with city law.
• Use City Public Works contact methods for formal complaints and evidence submission.

Help and Support / Resources

• City of San Bernardino Municipal Code (Municode)
• City of San Bernardino Public Works - Stormwater
• California State Water Resources Control Board - Stormwater

1. [1] City of San Bernardino Municipal Code (Municode)
2. [2] City of San Bernardino Public Works - Stormwater