2.5  Detection/Elimination of Illicit Connections

Return to Phase II Storm Water Management Plan

USEPA aimed this measure at distinguishing between legitimate sources of dry weather discharges to storm sewer systems (e.g., residential car washing, fire fighting waters) and illicit or illegal discharges or connections, septic tank overflows, or dumping motor oil into catch basins.  In developing and implementing the specifics of this measure, the municipality needs to consider the appropriateness and effectiveness of a variety of identification methods, each of which has positive features and certain drawbacks and shortcomings.

Methods may include dye tests, smoke tests, random checks of homes, field sampling, field screening, review of maps and house plans, and notification for self-identification and self-elimination with a given grace period to be followed by fines if detected by the municipality.  In many cases, municipalities will need to evaluate their existing codes and ordinances to determine their authority with respect to prohibiting certain connections and discharges, then as necessary, enact or modify codes and ordinances that grant them the necessary authority.