Report Storm Drain Discharge - Fort Collins

Utilities and Infrastructure Colorado 3 Minutes Read ยท published February 20, 2026 Flag of Colorado

Introduction

Fort Collins, Colorado requires residents and businesses to report unauthorized discharges to the storm drainage system and to request repairs for damaged storm drains to protect water quality and public safety. This guide explains how to report a spill or illicit discharge, request repair or maintenance, who enforces the rules, typical enforcement steps, and what to expect after you file a report. It consolidates official city reporting routes, municipal code references, and practical action steps so Fort Collins residents and contractors can act quickly to prevent pollution and reduce liability.

How to report a discharge or request repair

To report an active pollution discharge, a spill into a storm drain, or a broken or obstructed storm inlet, use the City of Fort Collins online reporting page or call the stormwater contact numbers listed on the city site. For work requests or to ask about scheduled repairs, contact the Stormwater Utility or submit an online maintenance request through the city portal.[1]

Report active discharges immediately and, if there is danger to people, call emergency services first.

Penalties & Enforcement

The Stormwater Utility and the City of Fort Collins enforce illicit discharge, spill response, and storm drain repair requirements under the city code and related stormwater regulations. Specific monetary fines, daily continuing penalties, and escalation for repeat offenses are not specified on the cited municipal code page; see the municipal code and enforcement pages for controlling language and any fee schedules.[2]

  • Enforcer: Stormwater Utility within Utilities Department and city code enforcement officers.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: administrative orders to stop discharge, mandatory cleanup or remediation orders, stop-work orders for contractors, and referral to municipal court.
  • Fines and civil penalties: not specified on the cited page; amounts and per-day assessments are listed in the municipal code or enforcement guidelines where published.
  • Inspection and investigation: city inspectors may investigate complaints, collect evidence, and document continuing violations.
  • Appeals and review: appeal routes may include administrative review or municipal court; time limits for appeal are not specified on the cited page.
If you are responsible for a discharge, follow city instructions and document your response.

Applications & Forms

The city publishes an online report form and work-request interfaces for stormwater maintenance; no fee for filing an incident report is noted on the primary reporting page. For permits or repair authorizations related to construction or utility work, consult the Municipal Code and the Utilities or Planning pages for permit forms and fee schedules.[1]

Common violations

  • Illicit connection or discharge of wastewater to storm drains.
  • Failure to maintain inlet grates, causing blockages or localized flooding.
  • Failure to report a known spill or to take reasonable remedial action.
Documentation and photos speed investigation and repair scheduling.

FAQ

How do I report an active spill into a storm drain?
The fastest method is the City of Fort Collins online stormwater report page or the stormwater contact phone listed there; if public safety is at risk, call 911 first.[1]
Who enforces storm drain rules in Fort Collins?
The Stormwater Utility within the Utilities Department enforces the regulations under the municipal code; investigations and orders come from city inspectors and enforcement staff.[2]
Will I be charged for requesting a repair of a city-maintained storm drain?
Repair responsibility and fees depend on ownership and cause; the online request system accepts maintenance requests, and fee or cost-recovery details are provided by the Utilities Department during review.

How-To

  1. Identify the location and take photos: note nearest address, drain/inlet ID, and visible pollutants.
  2. Report the incident: use the city online report form or call the Stormwater Utility to file an incident report.[1]
  3. Contain and document: if safe, contain the spill, prevent entry to the storm system, and save records of your actions.
  4. Follow city directions: comply with cleanup orders, supply requested documents, and arrange repairs if you are the responsible party.
  5. Pay or appeal: respond to any notices, pay assessed fees, or file an appeal within the time allowed in the notice (time limit details may be in the municipal code or the notice itself).

Key Takeaways

  • Report spills quickly using the city reporting page to reduce environmental harm.
  • Enforcement is handled by the Stormwater Utility; consult the municipal code for legal language.
  • Keep photos and records to support any appeal or insurance claim.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Fort Collins - Stormwater incident report and contact
  2. [2] Fort Collins Municipal Code - Code of Ordinances

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