Report Illicit Storm Drain Discharges - Salt Lake City

Utilities and Infrastructure Utah 3 Minutes Read ยท published February 10, 2026 Flag of Utah

Salt Lake City, Utah residents and businesses must prevent pollutants from entering the municipal storm drain system. This guide explains how to identify and report illicit discharges to the city, what the city enforcer does, likely penalties, and practical steps to protect local streams and the Great Salt Lake watershed.

What is an illicit storm drain discharge?

An illicit discharge is any non-stormwater flow into a storm drain or watercourse, including sewage, washwater, industrial waste, concrete washout, or other contaminants that are not expressly authorized by permit. Report visible pipes, colored or odorous flows, or repeated dumping immediately to the city.

How to report

When you find a suspected illicit discharge, document location, time, flow characteristics, and photos if safe. Submit a report to the City of Salt Lake City stormwater reporting portal or call the Public Utilities contact line listed below for immediate hazards.[1]

  1. Record date, time, and precise location (nearest address or intersection).
  2. Take clear photos or short video showing the discharge and any visible source.
  3. Report online or by phone to the Stormwater division; indicate whether the issue is ongoing.
  4. Do not touch unknown discharges; keep pets and people away from the area.
Report immediately for active flows and potential human-health risks.

Penalties & Enforcement

The City enforces stormwater rules under its municipal code and through its Stormwater/Utilities division. Specific fine amounts and escalation schedules are set in the city code and related enforcement policies; if not listed on the cited page, they are not specified on the cited page.[2]

  • Fines: not specified on the cited page; check municipal code and enforcement policy for exact amounts.
  • Escalation: first offences and repeat/continuing offences are handled per city code; ranges not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: orders to stop discharge, abatement orders, required cleanup, equipment seizure, and referral to court for enforcement.
  • Enforcer and inspections: Salt Lake City Public Utilities - Stormwater division conducts investigations and inspections; complaints may trigger site visits and sampling.
  • Appeal/review: appeal routes and time limits are defined in the municipal code or administrative hearing rules; specific time limits are not specified on the cited page.
  • Defences/discretion: permitted discharges, emergency responses, or approved variances may be recognized; exact criteria are in code or permit documents.
The Stormwater division enforces city code and coordinates with state regulators for NPDES matters.

Applications & Forms

The city publishes reporting forms and guidance on the Stormwater or Public Utilities pages; if a specific incident report form is required it will be noted there. If no formal public form is listed, the division accepts reports via online portal or phone per the contact page.[1]

How-To

  1. Locate the discharge and take safe photos from a distance.
  2. Note the exact location, time, flow description, and any visible sources or vehicle markings.
  3. Submit the details and photos through the City of Salt Lake City stormwater report portal or call Public Utilities for urgent hazards.[1]
  4. Keep a record of your report confirmation number and any follow-up correspondence.
  5. If you are a business or contractor, stop the activity, contain the pollutant if safe, and cooperate with inspectors.
Businesses may have permit obligations; contact the city for guidance before continuing work.

FAQ

How quickly will the city respond to an illicit discharge report?
The city prioritizes active discharges and human-health risks; response times vary by workload and severity.
Can I remain anonymous when I report?
Yes, Salt Lake City typically accepts anonymous reports, but providing contact information helps investigators follow up.
Will the city share enforcement outcomes?
Outcome disclosures follow privacy and legal rules; some enforcement actions are public through municipal records.

Key Takeaways

  • Document location and photos before reporting.
  • Report via the official stormwater portal or Public Utilities contact line.
  • Penalties and procedures are set in the municipal code; consult the official pages for details.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Salt Lake City - Stormwater / Public Utilities
  2. [2] Salt Lake City Municipal Code - Municode

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