Illicit Discharge

Pictured: example of an illicit discharge in a neighborhood.

Jefferson County Illicit Discharges

Our storm sewer system is designed to carry runoff from rain and snowmelt and discharge it directly to the drainage way.  Materials that are dumped or inadvertently washed into our storm sewer system can pollute our creeks and rivers.  An illicit discharge occurs when an activity results in an unauthorized substance entering our storm sewer system or waterways.

Jefferson County is responsible for what flows through our storm sewer system even if the pollutants originate on private property.  The storm sewer system includes both concrete and metal infrastructure, as well as roadside ditches that convey stormwater.  Jefferson County has procedures to address illicit discharges into the storm sewer system.

Always keep solid waste, such as pet waste, landscaping materials or food grease, contained and disposed of appropriately.  Liquid waste such as concrete washout, residuals from carpet cleaning, or power wash water should be contained and disposed of properly. Jefferson County residents can take household hazardous waste, including paint, cleaners, fertilizers and electronics to the Rooney Road Recycling Center as well. You can schedule an appointment with Rooney Road Recycling Center by calling 303-316-6262.

If you have any questions regarding Jefferson County’s stormwater management program, visit our Stormwater Management web page or contact us online. If you see an illicit discharge that is an urgent matter, please contact the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department at 303-277-0211.

The county's storm sewer system is designed to carry stormwater runoff from precipitation events such as rain and snowmelt.

An illicit discharge is considered to be anything entering into the storm sewer system that is not stormwater. An illicit discharge occurs when an activity results in an unauthorized substance entering our storm sewer system.