What is an illicit discharge?

• An illicit discharge is defined as any discharge to the Perrysburg municipal separate storm sewer system (MS4) that is not composed entirely of storm water, except for discharges allowed under a NPDES permit or waters used for firefighting operations. Allowable discharges are specified in Chapter 1056 of the Perrysburg Codified Ordinance.
• Certain illicit discharges may be unknown to the owner, but others could be intentional. A few examples of illicit discharges include:
• Inappropriately plumbed connectors
• Failing septic systems
• Illegal dumping
• Spills from transportation or industrial accidents
• When these flows enter our storm system they bypass our wastewater treatment plant and flow directly into our local waterways. This can result in negative effects on our local streams which ultimately flow to Lake Erie and can cause environmental and economic damage in all affected areas. As a reminder, the construction, use, maintenance, or continued existence of illegal connections to the MS4 is prohibited, regardless of whether the initial construction or installation of the connection was permissible at the time of connection.

If you see something, say something

• If you see odd discharges (especially during dry weather) entering a storm drain, ditch, creek, or other waterway, please let us know! Signs of an illicit discharge can include discoloration, a rainbow sheen on the surface of the water, suds, odor, staining, or anything else out of the ordinary.
• Who do you call?
• During business hours, call the Department of Public Utilities at 419-872-8050.
• If you find something after hours, call the Police Department at 419-872-8001.

Illegal dumping

• Although it may not appear as an obvious threat to our environment, inappropriately handled yard waste can cause big issues. When organic material is stockpiled, it begins to decompose and creates nutrient-rich compost. This is great for our gardens, but not for our water. When grass clippings and leaves are blown into the curb or piled along our ditches and waterways they can introduce excess nutrients into our streams. These excess nutrients are the food of choice for algae blooms.

Not sure how to dispose of your waste?

• Please visit these links for information on what to do with Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) and how to appropriately dispose of Yard Waste.
• Remember, ONLY RAIN IN THE DRAIN!