Report Illicit Storm Drain Discharges - Athens Ordinance

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

Athens, Georgia residents must report any unlawful dumping or illicit discharges into storm drains to protect local waterways and public health. This guide explains what counts as an illicit storm drain discharge, how to document and report incidents to the Athens-Clarke County Stormwater Division, and what enforcement tools the municipal code provides. It summarizes practical steps you can take immediately, what the county may do after a report, and where to find official complaint forms and code citations.

Report any visible dumping, sewage, oil sheens, or colored water immediately.

What is an illicit storm drain discharge?

An illicit discharge is any discharge to the storm sewer system that is not solely composed of stormwater. Examples include untreated sewage, wash water, pet waste, vehicle fluids, industrial process water, and concentrated pollutants from illegal dumping. Illicit discharges can enter the storm system from direct dumping, illegal connections, or spills and can harm surface waters, wildlife, and drinking-water sources.

Penalties & Enforcement

The Athens-Clarke County municipal code and the Stormwater Division provide the legal basis for identifying, stopping, and remedying illicit discharges. Specific monetary fines for illicit discharge violations are not specified on the cited pageAthens-Clarke County Code of Ordinances[2].

  • Enforcement actions can include written notices or orders to cease the discharge.
  • Abatement or corrective action requirements to remove or remediate the source of pollution.
  • Referral to county legal counsel for civil action, injunctive relief, or recovery of cleanup costs.
  • Monetary fines or penalties where the code sets amounts; amounts and escalation (first/repeat/continuing offences) are not specified on the cited page[2].
  • Possible suspension or revocation of permits or utility services tied to the violation, if applicable.
The Stormwater Division investigates complaints and may issue orders to stop discharges.

Applications & Forms

To report an illicit discharge, use the Athens-Clarke County Stormwater complaint/report page or the Public Works contact options found on the county websiteAthens-Clarke County Stormwater[1]. The cited Stormwater program page provides the online complaint form and phone numbers; if a specific printed form number or fee is required, that detail is not specified on the cited page[1].

How-To

  1. Observe and record: note the location, time, visible pollutants, flow path, and any identifying features of the source.
  2. Document with photos or video showing the discharge, nearby landmarks, and any markings on containers or vehicles if safe to do so.
  3. Report online or by phone using the Athens-Clarke County Stormwater complaint form or Public Works contact informationAthens-Clarke County Stormwater[1].
  4. If the discharge is ongoing and appears hazardous, call emergency services and the county stormwater hotline immediately.
  5. Preserve evidence: keep photos, notes, and witness names; do not disturb the scene if public safety could be affected.
  6. Follow up: request a complaint or case number, and ask for the expected timeframe for investigation and corrective action.
Preserve photos and do not attempt to sample hazardous discharges yourself.

FAQ

How do I file a report for an illicit storm drain discharge?
Use the Athens-Clarke County Stormwater online complaint form or call Public Works to report the incident; include photos, exact location, and a description of the pollutants.[1]
Who enforces the illicit discharge rules in Athens?
The Athens-Clarke County Stormwater Division enforces stormwater and illicit discharge rules under the county code; see the code of ordinances for the controlling provisions.[2]
What happens after I report an illicit discharge?
The Stormwater Division investigates, may order abatement or remediation, and can refer matters for civil enforcement or fines; specific fine amounts and appeal time limits are not specified on the cited ordinance page.[2]

Key Takeaways

  • Report visible discharges promptly with location and photos.
  • Athens-Clarke County Stormwater handles investigations and orders.
  • Specific fines and appeal deadlines are not specified on the cited ordinance page; consult the official code for updates.[2]

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] Athens-Clarke County Stormwater Program
  2. [2] Athens-Clarke County Code of Ordinances

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