Report Illicit Stormwater Discharges in Pittsburgh

Utilities and Infrastructure Pennsylvania 3 Minutes Read ยท published February 09, 2026 Flag of Pennsylvania

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania requires the prompt reporting of illicit stormwater discharges to protect waterways and meet municipal and MS4 requirements. This guide explains who enforces stormwater rules, how to report suspected illegal discharges, likely penalties, and the practical steps residents or contractors should take to document and stop pollution.

Penalties & Enforcement

The City of Pittsburgh and the Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority (PWSA) administer stormwater controls, illicit discharge detection, and enforcement under the city's stormwater program and permit responsibilities. Official program pages list reporting channels and responsibilities; specific fine amounts and escalation are not fully listed on the cited pages below.[1][2]

  • Enforcer: Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority (PWSA) and City stormwater program; complaints may be routed through PWSA or City reporting systems.
  • Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: whether first, repeat, or continuing offence fines apply is not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: orders to cease discharge, corrective actions, remediation orders, and referral to civil or criminal court are possible where violations are found.
  • Inspections and complaint pathway: report suspected discharges to PWSA or City reporting pages; investigations and site inspections are conducted by authority staff.
  • Appeal/review: appeal routes depend on the issuing authority and notice of violation; specific time limits for appeal are not specified on the cited pages.
Report visible pollution immediately to accelerate response and preserve evidence.

Applications & Forms

The official program pages do not publish a specialized "illicit discharge permit" application; reporting is handled via complaint/report forms or contact numbers on the stormwater program pages. If a corrective permit, remediation plan, or waiver is required, the relevant form or application is provided by the enforcing office at the time of enforcement or instruction; specific form names and fees are not specified on the cited pages.

How to Report an Illicit Stormwater Discharge

Use the official reporting channels to ensure rapid response. Provide location, description, photos, flow direction, color, odor, and any observed materials or sources. If there is an immediate threat to health or large visible spills, call emergency services and the authority contact below.

  1. Call the PWSA or City stormwater/reporting number listed on the official stormwater page and follow instructions for urgent spills.[1]
  2. Document: take photos or video showing location, timestamps, and extent of discharge.
  3. Submit an online report or form when available on the official page, attaching photos and location details.[2]
  4. Preserve evidence: avoid disturbing the site unless necessary for safety; note witness names and vehicle descriptions if relevant.
If a hazardous material release is suspected, call 911 and notify the authority via its emergency contact as well.

Common Violations

  • Direct dumping of waste or wastewater to storm drains or streams.
  • Illicit connections from floor drains, sinks, or industrial outfalls into the storm system.
  • Pavement or construction runoff carrying sediment, concrete wash, or pollutants without required controls.

FAQ

Who enforces stormwater discharge rules in Pittsburgh?
The Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority (PWSA) and City stormwater program enforce stormwater rules and respond to illicit discharge reports.[1]
How do I report a suspected illegal discharge?
Use the official PWSA or City reporting pages or phone numbers; provide photos, location, and description for faster response.[1][2]
Are there set fines for violations?
Specific fine amounts and escalation are not specified on the cited pages; enforcement may include orders, remediation, fines, or court referral depending on findings.

How-To

  1. Identify and record the exact location and time of the discharge.
  2. Take clear photos or video showing the pollutant and flow path.
  3. Contact PWSA or City stormwater reporting via the official page or phone and submit your documentation.[1]
  4. Follow up if you receive a report number; keep records of any correspondence and actions.

Key Takeaways

  • Report quickly and document evidence to help inspectors act.
  • Enforcement can include orders, remediation, fines, or court action even if specific fines are not listed online.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] PWSA Stormwater program and reporting
  2. [2] City of Pittsburgh stormwater program

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