Report Illicit Stormwater Discharge - Albuquerque Ordinance

Utilities and Infrastructure New Mexico 3 Minutes Read ยท published February 08, 2026 Flag of New Mexico

Albuquerque, New Mexico requires residents and businesses to prevent and report illicit stormwater discharges to protect local waterways and comply with municipal stormwater controls. This guide explains what counts as an illicit discharge, who enforces the rules in Albuquerque, the typical penalties and enforcement process, and step-by-step actions to report suspected illegal discharges so the city can investigate and stop contamination quickly.

Report visible sewage, industrial wastes, or unusual colored or odorous discharges immediately.

What is an illicit stormwater discharge?

An illicit discharge is any discharge to the storm drain system that is not composed entirely of stormwater, such as sanitary sewage, industrial wastewater, vehicle wash water, or concentrated chemical releases. Illicit discharges can be intermittent or continuous and include direct dumping to streets, gutters, storm drains, or open channels.

Penalties & Enforcement

The City of Albuquerque enforces stormwater and illicit discharge controls through its municipal stormwater program and related ordinances. Specific enforcement authority, procedures, and penalties are administered by the city department responsible for stormwater management and code enforcement. For official reporting and program details see the City of Albuquerque stormwater page City of Albuquerque Stormwater[1].

  • Fines: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: not specified on the cited page; typical municipal practice includes higher fines or daily penalties for continuing violations.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: the city may issue abatement or corrective orders, require cleanup or remediation, obtain injunctive relief, and pursue civil or criminal actions where authorized.
  • Enforcer and complaint pathway: the municipal stormwater program and code enforcement handle investigations and inspections; complaints can be submitted via the city stormwater contact page listed above.[1]
  • Appeals and review: specific appeal procedures and time limits are not specified on the cited page; check the city program contact for appeal deadlines and hearing processes.
If a discharge presents an immediate public-health hazard, call emergency services or the city hotline first.

Applications & Forms

The cited city stormwater page does not publish a specific public reporting form or permit form on that page; for permit requirements, stormwater pollution prevention plans, and formal applications contact the city stormwater program or review official permit guidance on the city site.[1]

How-To

  1. Observe and document: note the location, time, appearance (color, odor), flow path, nearby drains, and any identifying information such as vehicle, facility, or pipe markings.
  2. Take photos or short videos: capture wide and close views showing the discharge and its connection to storm drains if safe to do so; do not enter dangerous areas.
  3. Report to the city: submit the details through the City of Albuquerque stormwater reporting/contact page or call the municipal hotline for environmental complaints.City of Albuquerque Stormwater[1]
  4. Follow up: record the report number if provided and request updates; ask about expected inspection timelines and corrective actions.
  5. Appeal or escalate: if you disagree with the outcome, request appeal information from the enforcing office and follow published appeal steps or administrative review.

FAQ

How quickly will the city respond to an illicit discharge report?
Response times vary by severity and workload; the city stormwater program provides investigation timelines on its official page or when you file a report.
Can I report anonymously?
Many municipal programs accept anonymous reports, but providing contact information helps investigators obtain follow-up details; check the city reporting page for options.
What should I do if I see sewage or hazardous liquid in a storm drain?
If there is an immediate health or safety risk, call emergency services; otherwise document, photograph, and report promptly to the city stormwater contact.

Key Takeaways

  • Document location, time, and evidence before reporting.
  • Use the City of Albuquerque stormwater contact to file reports and request inspections.[1]

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Albuquerque - Stormwater Program

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