Frequently Asked Questions

In general, illicit discharges include any discharge into a storm drain system that is not entirely composed of stormwater. The exceptions include water from firefighting activities and discharges from facilities already under an NPDES permit. Illicit discharges are a problem because, unlike wastewater, which flows to a treatment plant, stormwater generally flows to waterways without any additional treatment. Illicit discharges often contain pathogens, nutrients, surfactants, and various toxic pollutants.

An illicit connection is an illegal and/or unauthorized connection to the municipal separate storm sewer system (MS4) whether or not such connections result in discharges into that system.

If you see something, say something. Even if you are unsure what the discharge may be, you can report any suspicious spills, leaks, and/or discharges to the City. City of Hendersonville Staff are trained to identify unlawful discharges of pollutants to the storm drain system, but we need help from you.

You can help us by reporting any pollution you observe, by using the form below (Reports can be submitted anonymously). If you see any of the following, please let us know:

• Water pollution activity
• See material spilled or dumped into a waterway
• Observe conditions near a storm drain or stream that indicate a polluting activity