Illicit Discharge Detection & Elimination

These activities identify and eliminate any non-stormwater discharges into the storm sewer system that may contain pollutants.

  • Storm sewer mapping: The City developed a digital map of the public storm sewer system using geographic information system (GIS) software. This map contains basic information about all components of the public storm sewer system.
  • Ordinance prohibiting illicit discharges: The City has updated an ordinance prohibiting illicit discharges into the storm sewer system.
  • Field program to detect and address illicit discharges: The City has developed a program for the detection and elimination of illicit discharges. This program includes field inspection of outfalls, water quality analysis, and identification of any illicit discharges found.
  • Educate public employees: The City has developed a training program for City staff to provide information on the hazards of illegal discharges and improper waste disposal.
  • Educate businesses and the general public: The public education program includes information on the hazards of illegal discharges and improper waste disposal. This information was and will be presented in newsletter articles, the stormwater flyer, the stormwater Web site, and other public education and outreach efforts.
  • Spill response program: The City of Fairfield is a member of the Greater Cincinnati Hazardous Materials Unit, a regional response team that covers a number of counties and cities located in the greater Cincinnati area. In coordination with the Fairfield Fire Department, the Greater Cincinnati Hazardous Materials Unit provides spill containment services to Fairfield.