Arlington Illicit Storm Drain Discharge Rules

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

Arlington, Texas regulates discharges to the municipal storm drainage system to protect water quality and public health. This guide explains the local legal basis, who enforces the rules, how to report suspected illicit discharges, typical enforcement actions, and practical steps for property owners, contractors, and tenants to comply. It summarizes official sources and contact points for Arlington’s stormwater program and municipal code so you can act quickly and follow official procedures.

Report visible sewage, fuel, paint, or concentrated runoff to the city immediately.

Legal Authority and Scope

The City of Arlington enforces stormwater and illicit discharge controls under its municipal code and stormwater program. The municipal code and the city stormwater program provide the legal authority, definitions, prohibitions, and compliance requirements for discharges to public storm drainage. For the controlling code text and program details, consult the City code and the Public Works Stormwater program pages. City code[1] and Arlington Stormwater Program[2].

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement is typically handled by the City of Arlington Public Works or the department designated in the municipal code; official complaint and inspection pathways are managed by the stormwater program and City Code Compliance.

  • Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation for repeat or continuing offenses: not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: compliance orders, abatement directives, corrective action requirements, and referral to municipal court or other legal action as authorized by the code.
  • Inspections and complaints: the Public Works - Stormwater office accepts complaints, conducts investigations and inspects sites for violations.
  • Recordkeeping and evidence: the city may require documentation of corrective actions and monitoring results.
  • Appeals and review: specific appeal routes and time limits are not specified on the cited page.
Exact fines, schedules, and appeal deadlines are not listed on the cited ordinance page and must be confirmed with the city.

Applications & Forms

The municipal code and stormwater program pages do not publish a single, named "Illicit Discharge Form" with fee or deadline information; if a formal complaint or form is required the stormwater program or Code Compliance office will provide it when you report the issue.[2]

Common Violations

  • Direct dumping of paint, motor oil, chemicals or sewage to gutters, drains, or creeks.
  • Construction site runoff without erosion control or sediment controls in place.
  • Discharges from industrial activities that bypass required controls or permits.
Contractors are commonly cited for failing to implement adequate sediment and erosion controls during construction.

Action Steps

  • To report an active or recent illicit discharge call the City of Arlington Public Works - Stormwater office or use the city reporting portal.[2]
  • Preserve evidence: take photos, note time, date, location, and any identifying details of vehicles or persons.
  • If you are responsible for a discharge, notify the city immediately and follow corrective measures to stop the discharge and remediate impacts.
  • Pay fines and complete required corrective actions by deadlines in any city order to avoid escalation.

FAQ

What is an illicit discharge?
An illicit discharge is any non-stormwater discharge into the storm sewer system unless it is exempted by the municipal code or an authorized permit.
How do I report a spill or illegal discharge in Arlington?
Contact the City of Arlington Public Works - Stormwater office by phone or the official online reporting method; provide location, description, and photos if possible.[2]
Will I be fined for reporting?
Reporting a discharge as a witness is not a basis for penalty; enforcement actions target the responsible party. Specific fine amounts are not specified on the cited ordinance page.[1]

How-To

  1. Document the incident: record location, time, description, and take photos or video.
  2. Contain if safe: if you can stop or contain the source without risk, do so using absorbents or barriers.
  3. Report to the city: contact Public Works - Stormwater by phone or use the city online report to submit details and media.
  4. Follow up: keep the report number, comply with any city requests for information, and implement corrective measures if you are the responsible party.

Key Takeaways

  • Arlington prohibits non-stormwater discharges to the storm system and enforces compliance through Public Works and Code Compliance.
  • Report suspected discharges promptly to the Stormwater office with photos and location details.
  • Contractors and property owners should maintain erosion controls and pollution prevention measures to avoid violations.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Arlington Code of Ordinances - municipal code
  2. [2] City of Arlington - Public Works: Stormwater program and reporting

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