Report Illicit Storm Drain Discharge - Lincoln Ordinance

Utilities and Infrastructure Nebraska 3 Minutes Read · published February 09, 2026 Flag of Nebraska

In Lincoln, Nebraska, illicit discharges to the storm drain system threaten water quality and are addressed through the City’s stormwater program. This guide explains how to identify and report an illicit storm drain discharge to Lincoln Public Works, what the city can enforce, and the typical steps taken after a report. Follow the action steps below to report a spill or suspicious discharge and to preserve evidence that helps enforcement and cleanup. Official program pages list reporting options and program details for Lincoln Public Works.Public Works Stormwater program[1]

Report suspected discharges to Public Works immediately.

What is an illicit storm drain discharge

An illicit discharge is any non-stormwater flow entering the municipal separate storm sewer system (MS4) without authorization. Common examples include sanitary sewage cross-connections, industrial process wastewater, wash water, and unauthorized chemical or oil releases.

When to report

  • Any visible sheen, colored plume, or strong odor in a storm drain, creek, pond, or channel.
  • Continuous or recurring discharges from a property to the storm system.
  • Observed dumping of materials into gutter, catch basin, or open channel.

How to report

Provide the exact location (nearest address or intersection), time, description of the discharge (color, odor, volume), and any photos or video. If the discharge poses an immediate public health or safety threat, call emergency services first.

  1. Use the City of Lincoln online reporting or contact Public Works to file a complaint; provide contact info and evidence when available.
  2. If the discharge is ongoing, note vehicle descriptions, source property, and start time.
  3. Preserve photos, videos, and witness names for inspectors.

Penalties & Enforcement

Lincoln enforces stormwater protections through Public Works and the City’s code and permits. Enforcement can include notices, orders to abate, civil fines, and referral to state authorities for NPDES or water quality violations. Specific fine amounts and escalation schedules are not specified on the cited city program page; see the official contact for case details.Report a problem to Public Works[2]

  • Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page; penalties depend on code sections and case facts.
  • Escalation: first notice, abatement order, followed by civil penalties or court action if unresolved (specific ranges not specified on the cited page).
  • Non-monetary sanctions: abatement orders, required remediation, monitoring, and possible equipment seizure or stop-work orders.
  • Enforcer: Lincoln Public Works Stormwater program and authorized inspectors; referrals to Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy may occur for state-level violations.
  • Appeals: appeal routes and time limits are not specified on the cited program page; request appeal procedures from Public Works when notified of an enforcement action.
Penalties and procedures vary by case and permitting status.

Applications & Forms

The City publishes online complaint/report forms and guidance for stormwater concerns; there is no separate permit form specifically for reporting an illicit discharge. For construction or industrial activities, stormwater permits and permit-related forms are handled through the applicable permit program and state NPDES requirements (see local program links). If a specific enforcement or permit form is required, Public Works will provide form name and submission instructions.

Action steps after you report

  • Note the report reference number and follow any instructions from inspectors.
  • Provide additional evidence if requested and keep communication records.
  • Property owners may be ordered to stop the discharge and complete corrective work.
Keep photos with timestamps to support enforcement and cleanup.

FAQ

How do I report an illicit storm drain discharge in Lincoln?
Contact Lincoln Public Works through the online stormwater reporting page or the City problem-reporting portal; provide location, description, and photos where possible.
What information should I include in my report?
Exact location, time, visual description (color, sheen, odor), estimated volume, photos/video, and any witness or vehicle details.
Will the city inspect every report?
Public Works prioritizes threats to public health and visible pollution; inspectors assess each report and determine response actions.

How-To

  1. Document the discharge: take photos, note time and location, and identify possible source.
  2. Report online via the Public Works stormwater page or the City problem-reporting portal, including all evidence.
  3. Follow up with the reference number and provide additional information if inspectors request it.
  4. If you receive an enforcement notice, review appeal instructions and meet compliance deadlines or file an appeal as directed.

Key Takeaways

  • Report any visible pollution to Lincoln Public Works promptly.
  • Provide photos and exact locations to speed investigation.
  • Penalties and specific fine amounts are determined through enforcement procedures and are not listed on the cited program page.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Lincoln - Public Works Stormwater program
  2. [2] City of Lincoln - Report a Problem / Request

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