Report Illicit Storm Drain Discharge - Dallas Ordinance

Utilities and Infrastructure Texas 3 Minutes Read · published February 06, 2026 Flag of Texas

Dallas, Texas enforces local rules to prevent pollution of storm drains and waterways. This guide explains how to report an illicit discharge into a storm drain in Dallas, who enforces the rules, the enforcement steps, and practical actions you can take as a resident or business to file a complaint and preserve evidence. Use the official reporting channels and include photos, location details, and timestamps when possible to help investigators. For the controlling ordinance text see the city code reference below.[1]

Report discharges promptly to increase the chance of stopping pollution at source.

Penalties & Enforcement

The City of Dallas enforces unlawful discharges to storm drains through its stormwater program and municipal code. Specific monetary penalties, escalation schedules, and certain procedures are set out in the controlling ordinance or enforcement rule; where the page cited does not list numeric fines or escalation steps, the text below notes that the numeric amounts are not specified on the cited page.

  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: first, repeat, or continuing offences and daily accruals are not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: compliance orders, stop-work or abatement orders, remediation requirements, and court referrals are authorized by the ordinance; exact remedies and procedures are not specified on the cited page.
  • Enforcer: City of Dallas Stormwater Program together with Code Compliance and the City Attorney may enforce stormwater rules; inspections and complaint investigations are handled by city field staff.
  • Appeals and review: the ordinance references administrative or court review paths; specific time limits for appeal are not specified on the cited page.
  • Defences and discretion: authorized city staff may consider permits, approved discharges, or documented emergency responses; where the ordinance does not list specific defenses, the cited page states discretion is applied by enforcement staff.
Keep records and photos because evidence is critical for enforcement and appeals.

Applications & Forms

There is no separate environmental 'permit' form required for filing a complaint; reports are submitted to the city via the official complaint/reporting channels listed in Help and Support / Resources. If you are a facility seeking a stormwater permit for ongoing discharges, consult the City of Dallas or state permitting authority for applicable permit applications.

How to Report an Illicit Discharge

  1. Document the scene: note location, time, description of flow or substance, and take clear photos or video.
  2. Use official reporting channels: contact Dallas 311 or the Stormwater Program via the official online complaint form or phone line listed below.
  3. Provide contact info: give your name and phone or email if you want updates; reports can often be anonymous but follow local guidance.
  4. If safe, block or divert the source on private property only if you have permission and it is safe to do so; otherwise wait for city responders.
  5. Follow up: note the report number and follow up with the Stormwater Program or 311 if the discharge continues.
If you see a fish kill or large visible petroleum sheen, report immediately and avoid contact with the material.

Common Violations

  • Illegal dumping of liquids or solids into storm drains (e.g., paint, solvents, wash water).
  • Vehicle fluid leaks where oil, coolant, or fuel reaches a storm drain.
  • Construction site sediment and concrete washout entering drainage.

FAQ

How do I report a storm drain discharge in Dallas?
Contact Dallas 311 or submit a report through the Stormwater Program online complaint form; include photos, location, and time.
Will the city notify me about action taken?
If you provide contact information the city generally provides a case or service request number and may update you on investigative results.
Can I be penalized for reporting?
No; reporters are not penalized for making a complaint, but false reports can be subject to city action if intentional.

How-To

  1. Identify and document the discharge with photos and exact location information.
  2. Call Dallas 311 or use the Stormwater Program online form to submit the report and any attachments.
  3. Save the service request number and follow up if the discharge continues or worsens.

Key Takeaways

  • Report promptly with photos and location to help enforcement stop pollution.
  • Use official city channels such as Dallas 311 or the Stormwater Program complaint form.
  • Keep records and follow up using the case number provided by the city.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] Dallas Code of Ordinances - municipal code

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