Illicit Discharge

Help Prevent Water Pollution By Reporting Problems

What goes down University Place's storm drains is not treated and empties directly into local waterways. Prompt reporting of stormwater pollution can go a long way to helping keep our local waterways healthy and clean.

The City encourages its residents to always be on the lookout for potential pollution from illicit discharges, which includes anything other than stormwater that enters the drainage system. You should report the following activities id they are draining directly into or upstream of City storm drains, ditches, creeks, ponds or Puget Sound:

• Uncontrolled, muddy construction site runoff
• Accidental spills
• Lawn watering, car washing, power washing sidewalks or buildings, chlorinated swimming pool dewatering
• People dumping or washing away oil, paint, chemicals, garbage, cigarette butts or other waste into the street or down the storm drain

Other clues of illicit discharge to look for in and around storm drains or waterways to report when you see them:

• Oily sheen or colored liquid
• Chemical or sewage smell
• Foamy lather
• Garbage accumulation
• Dead organisms

Report potential stormwater pollution to our Illicit Discharge Hotline at 253.208.7925

Useful information to report:

• Who is reporting and how can you be reached for additional questions?
• Who discharged/spilled the material (if known)? When and where?
• What was the material? Does it have an unusual odor or color?
• How much appears to have been released?