Naperville Illicit Storm Drain Discharge Reporting & Ordinance

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

In Naperville, Illinois, reporting illicit storm drain discharges helps protect local waterways and public health. This guide explains how to identify suspected illicit connections or spills, the city office that enforces stormwater rules, and the steps to report an active discharge or historical incident. It summarizes what the municipal code and city stormwater program say about enforcement, available forms, and what evidence to collect. Follow the steps below to report safely, preserve evidence, and understand potential penalties and appeal options under Naperville ordinances.[1]

Penalties & Enforcement

Naperville enforces illicit discharge provisions through its stormwater program and municipal code. Specific monetary fines and per-day penalty amounts are not specified on the cited page; consult the municipal code and the city stormwater pages for the controlling ordinance language and any fee schedules.[2] The City may issue compliance orders, require abatement, recover cleanup costs, and pursue civil or criminal action where permitted. The primary enforcer is the City of Naperville Public Works - Stormwater Division; complaints and inspections are initiated by the city after a report is received.[3]

Providing clear location details and photos speeds city response.
  • Enforcer: City of Naperville Public Works - Stormwater Division; enforces stormwater and illicit discharge provisions.
  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page; check the municipal code for exact figures and ranges.[2]
  • Escalation: first offenses, continuing violations, and repeat offences may lead to orders, fines, and cost recovery; specific escalation schedules are not specified on the cited page.
  • Appeals and review: appeal routes or judicial review are governed by the municipal code and general administrative procedures; time limits for appeals are not specified on the cited page.
  • Defences and discretion: permitting, emergency responses, or authorized discharges under permit may be defenses where shown in code or permit terms; contact the Stormwater Division for determinations.[3]

Applications & Forms

The city accepts illicit discharge reports via its online reporting form and by phone; no dedicated paper permit or application for reporting is required. Specific form numbers or filing fees are not published on the cited city page; use the online report or phone contact listed in Resources to submit evidence and location details.[1]

How-To

Follow these practical steps to report an illicit storm drain discharge to Naperville and support swift enforcement.

  1. Secure safety: do not enter contaminated water; keep people and pets away from discharge.
  2. Report immediately via the City of Naperville online illicit discharge report or public works phone line; include the exact location and time.[1]
  3. Document evidence: take photos or video, note color, smell, flow direction, and any visible source (pipe, driveway, industrial outfall).
  4. Preserve records: keep copies of your report, photos, and any communications with city staff for possible enforcement or appeals.
  5. Follow up: if no response is received within a reasonable period, contact Public Works - Stormwater to request status and ask about remedial actions.
If it is safe, photograph the discharge and note nearby addresses or landmarks.

FAQ

What counts as an illicit storm drain discharge?
Any non-stormwater flow entering the municipal storm drainage system, such as sewage, wash water, industrial effluent, or concentrated chemical spills.
How do I report an illicit discharge in Naperville?
Use the citys online illicit discharge report form or call Public Works - Stormwater during business hours; include location, photos, and a description of the flow.[1]
Will the city keep my identity confidential?
The city treats reports seriously; confidentiality policies are governed by city record rules and may be subject to public records laws. Ask the Stormwater Division about confidentiality when you report.

Key Takeaways

  • Report suspected discharges promptly to protect waterways.
  • Collect photos and precise locations to aid inspections and enforcement.
  • Contact City of Naperville Public Works - Stormwater for enforcement and appeals.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Naperville - Stormwater Program: Illicit discharge reporting and resources
  2. [2] Naperville Municipal Code - relevant stormwater and illicit discharge ordinance sections
  3. [3] City of Naperville - Public Works contact and complaint information

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