Report Illicit Storm Drain Discharge - Nashville

Utilities and Infrastructure Tennessee 3 Minutes Read · published February 07, 2026 Flag of Tennessee

In Nashville, Tennessee, illicit discharges to storm drains threaten rivers, streams and public health. This guide explains who enforces stormwater rules in Nashville, how to report a suspected illegal discharge to the city, what enforcement actions may follow, and practical steps you can take immediately. Use the official contacts in Help and Support / Resources to submit complaints, upload photos, or request an inspection.

Report visible spills or unusual flow into storm drains as soon as possible to preserve evidence.

Penalties & Enforcement

The Stormwater Program within Metro Water Services (and related Public Works functions) enforces local stormwater and illicit discharge rules for Nashville, Tennessee. Official enforcement mechanisms include inspections, orders to cease discharges, corrective work directives, civil penalties, and referral to legal action or courts. Specific fine amounts and escalation schedules are not specified on the cited city pages; see Help and Support / Resources for the department contact and full ordinance references.

  • Enforcer: Metro Water Services (Stormwater Program) and Public Works for on-site inspections and compliance orders.
  • Fines: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: first, repeat, and continuing offences procedures not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: cease-and-desist orders, corrective action requirements, administrative or court-ordered remediation.
  • Complaints and inspection requests: report via the city hotline, online reporting form, or the Stormwater Program contact (see Resources).
  • Appeals and review: specific appeal routes and time limits are not specified on the cited page.
If you are responsible for a discharge, follow any city-issued correction order promptly to reduce penalties.

Applications & Forms

The city accepts incident reports and complaints through its online reporting system and hotline; no standard form number is published on the main Stormwater Program pages. For permits or variances related to construction or discharge, consult the Planning/Permits office listed in Resources.

How to Report an Illicit Storm Drain Discharge

  • Observe and document: note time, location, source (business, pipe, vehicle), color, odor, and any visible sheen or solids.
  • Collect evidence: take clear photos or short video showing flow into the storm drain; record nearby landmarks and direction of flow.
  • Report promptly: submit the incident via the city hotline or online complaint form (see Resources). Provide your contact info if you want follow-up.
  • Preserve evidence: do not disturb the scene unless required for safety; document any instructions given by city staff.
  • Follow-up: if the city issues an order or requests remedial action, comply quickly and keep records of repairs or mitigation.

Common Violations

  • Discharge of vehicle wash water, industrial fluids, or chemicals into storm drains.
  • Improper handling or dumping of construction site runoff or debris.
  • Sewage or sanitary system cross-connections causing sanitary flow to enter storm drains.

Action Steps

  • Immediate: photograph and report the incident to the city hotline or online form.
  • Short-term: follow up with the Stormwater Program for inspection status.
  • Long-term: retain records and comply with any city orders to avoid escalated enforcement.

FAQ

How do I report a suspected illegal discharge?
Use the city hotline or the online stormwater/311 report form in Help and Support / Resources; provide photos and location details.
Will the city keep my identity confidential?
The city may accept anonymous reports, but policies on confidentiality vary; provide contact information if you want updates.
Are there immediate safety steps I should take?
Avoid contact with contaminated water, keep pets away, note the source, and report to the city; do not attempt to clean or remediate unless directed.

How-To

  1. Identify the exact location and take clear photos of the discharge and storm drain.
  2. Record time, weather, and any identifying marks on equipment, vehicles, or pipes that may indicate the source.
  3. Submit a report through the city online reporting system or hotline with all collected information.
  4. If contacted by city staff, provide additional evidence and follow instructions for site access or corrective actions.
  5. Keep a record of the report number, dates, and any correspondence for future follow-up or appeals.

Key Takeaways

  • Report quickly with photos to help the city investigate and preserve evidence.
  • Metro Water Services and Public Works handle inspections and orders for stormwater violations.
  • Fine amounts and specific appeal time limits are not specified on the cited city pages.

Help and Support / Resources

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