Stormwater Runoff

In general, any substance that is not rain water allowed to flow into the stormwater system is known as an illicit discharge. It is unlawful to dispose of, dump, spill or discharge any substance other than stormwater into the stormwater system. The stormwater system consists of catch basins, yard inlets, and the street gutters that drain stormwater to them.

Examples of illicit discharges include:

• Paint, old fuel, or other household chemicals poured into or near a storm drain;
• Changing engine oil or antifreeze without a containment system for collecting the fluid before it hits the street and gutter;
• Discarding yard waste, e.g. leaves, brush, and grass clippings in or near a storm drain or drainage ditch
• Draining chlorinated or salt water swimming pool water in or near a storm drain 

Reporting Stormwater Pollution

If you see something other than stormwater going into the drainage system, or if you see something and are not sure what it is, i.e. flowing water when there hasn't been any rain, you should report it to Norfolk Cares at 757-664-6510 or email healthyneighborhoods@norfolk.gov.

1. Where: The location of the incident. In order for the City to investigate we need to know where the problem is.
2. When: The sooner an incident is reported the greater the likelihood that an environmentally protective response can be made.
3. What: If you know what was released and how much, that can help determine the type of investigation needed.
4. Who: If you know the source of the problem or the company/individual causing the problem, please give us that information.

If you see it, Report it! 
Illicit Discharge Flyer

Many of our daily activities can cause pollutants to enter our waterways where we play, swim and fish.
It is up to all of us to do our part. 

Learn about what you can do to minimize stormwater runoff and make sure 
Only Rain Down the Storm Drain!

Only Rain Down the Storm Drain!

There are hundreds of storm drains across the City of Norfolk that all lead to our waterways and we need your help in letting everyone know that only rain belongs in the storm drain. This program is open to all ages, not just youth! You can help us mark the storm drains near you. We will provide medallions, adhesive, and maps to record your medallion placement.

This project is a great opportunity to learn about our waterways and the easy steps everyone can take to protect them.

Contact the Storm Water Public Relations Specialist Michelle Williams via email for inquiries about participating in the program.

The round, blue discs, or medallions, that you will attach to the tops of storm drains will help remind and educate other citizens about the importance of preventing pollution from entering our sensitive waterways, and above all, that storm drains are not to be used for dumping.