Illicit Discharges

Illicit discharges are generally any discharge into a storm drain system this is not composed entirely 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 wastewater treatment plant, stormwater generally flows to waterways without any additional treatment. Illicit discharges often include food waste, oils, pathogens, nutrients, surfactants, and various other pollutants.

UCF is an NPDES Phase II MS4 Operator and follows a Stormwater Management Plan to increase the natural characteristics of University stormwater collection and discharge. This plan is maintained by the Landscape and Natural Resources Department. EHS provides training to employees, contractors, students, and staff on illicit discharges. EHS also documents and tracks reported discharges.