Report Illicit Stormwater Discharges in Lubbock

Utilities and Infrastructure Texas 3 Minutes Read · published February 10, 2026 Flag of Texas

In Lubbock, Texas, illicit stormwater discharges can harm local waterways, public health, and infrastructure. This guide explains what counts as an illicit discharge, how to report suspected spills or illegal connections to city officials, and what to expect from enforcement. It is intended for residents, businesses, contractors, and property managers who need clear steps to notify the City of Lubbock and preserve evidence for follow-up.

Report spills promptly to reduce downstream harm.

What is an illicit stormwater discharge?

An illicit discharge is any non-stormwater flow entering the storm sewer system or natural drainage that is not composed entirely of stormwater. Common examples include washwater from vehicle cleaning, paint or solvent runoff, sanitary sewage, and industrial process wastewater.

How to report a suspected illicit discharge

When you observe a release to a curb, storm inlet, ditch, channel, or creek in Lubbock, act quickly:

  1. Call emergency services if the release is hazardous or a danger to people or traffic.
  2. Contact the City of Lubbock Stormwater/Engineering via the official complaint channels listed below; provide location, time, description, and photos.
  3. Preserve evidence: take photos, note nearby businesses or construction, and record witness names.
  4. If available, complete any online report form or email the stormwater program with the information you collected.
  5. Follow any containment or safety instructions from city responders; do not attempt to enter contaminated water.
Photographs with timestamps help investigators link discharges to sources.

Official legal provisions addressing illicit discharges are found in the City of Lubbock Code of Ordinances; see the municipal code for the controlling language and enforcement authority. City of Lubbock Code of Ordinances[1]

Penalties & Enforcement

The municipal code and city stormwater program provide the enforcement framework for illicit discharges. Specific penalty amounts, escalation schedules, and certain procedures are set by ordinance and administrative rules.

  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: first, repeat, and continuing offence treatment is not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: city orders to cease discharge, mandatory cleanup, corrective actions, and referral to court are authorized under the code.
  • Enforcer: City of Lubbock Stormwater Program / Engineering Department and designated code enforcement officers administer investigations and take action.
  • Appeals and review: the code provides administrative appeals or court review routes; exact time limits are not specified on the cited page.
  • Defences/discretion: permitted discharges, authorized work under a valid permit, or documented unavoidable releases may be considered; consult the ordinance for specifics.
If enforcement is imminent, seek written documentation of any permits or authorizations you rely on.

Applications & Forms

The city publishes reporting channels and may provide an online complaint form or email contact for stormwater issues on its stormwater program page. No specific enforcement application or penalty appeal form is listed on the cited municipal code page.[1]

Common violations

  • Discharging washwater, paint, or solvents to streets, drains, or creeks.
  • Unauthorized direct connections from process drains to storm sewers.
  • Failure to contain runoff from construction sites or material stockpiles.

FAQ

What counts as an illicit discharge?
An illicit discharge is any non-stormwater flow entering the storm drainage system, including sewage, washwater, industrial waste, and other prohibited liquids.
How quickly will the city respond?
Response times vary by hazard and workload; emergency hazards should be reported to 911 and the city stormwater program for follow-up.
Can I report anonymously?
The city accepts reports from the public; whether anonymous reports are accepted depends on the specific reporting channel used—check the stormwater complaint page.

How-To

  1. Note the exact location, date, and time of the discharge.
  2. Call the City of Lubbock stormwater contact or non-emergency line to report details.
  3. Take clear photos or video showing the source, flow path, and any identifying features.
  4. Complete any online complaint form if offered by the city and attach photographic evidence.
  5. Preserve evidence and provide witness names; follow up with the city if you do not receive confirmation.

Key Takeaways

  • Report suspected illicit discharges promptly with location and photos.
  • Use the City of Lubbock's official stormwater complaint channels for fastest response.
  • Keep records and any permit documentation if you are a site operator or contractor.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Lubbock Code of Ordinances

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