Burnaby illicit discharge bylaw enforcement
Burnaby, British Columbia enforces rules to prevent pollutants from entering storm sewers and waterways. This guide explains how the city handles illicit discharges, where to report concerns, what enforcement powers exist, and practical steps for businesses and residents. It summarizes official City of Burnaby guidance and reporting routes, explains likely outcomes after a report, and identifies common violations to avoid. Use the links below to reach official pages and forms for reporting and follow the action steps to comply or contest an enforcement notice.
Penalties & Enforcement
The City of Burnaby addresses illicit discharges through its environmental and bylaw enforcement programs; specific monetary fines or schedules are not provided on the cited City pages for this topic, so amounts are not specified on the cited page.[1][2]
- Fines: not specified on the cited page.
- Escalation: first, repeat, or continuing offences not specified on the cited page.
- Non-monetary sanctions: compliance orders, directives to stop discharge, remediation orders, and potential seizure or court action are used as enforcement tools.
- Enforcer: Bylaw Enforcement and the City environmental/drainage teams handle complaints and inspections; report via the City online reporting pages or contact the Bylaw Enforcement office.[2]
- Appeals and reviews: the cited pages do not specify appeal routes or time limits; see the enforcement contact page to request review or clarification.
Applications & Forms
There is no dedicated public form titled for "illicit discharge" published on the cited City pages; reports are typically submitted via the City reporting/contact pages or by phone as described on the official pages.[2]
Reporting and Investigation Process
How a report proceeds generally:
- Report received by Bylaw or environmental staff through the City reporting portal or call centre.
- Initial assessment and triage to priority based on pollution risk.
- Inspection and sampling where required; evidence recorded.
- Compliance notice, order to remediate, or administrative penalty depending on findings.
Common Violations
- Illegal discharge of washwater, chemicals, or petroleum into storm drains.
- Improper disposal of construction runoff or failing erosion controls.
- Failure to contain and treat industrial waste before discharge.
Action Steps
- Immediately report spills or suspect discharges to City Bylaw or the drainage/environment contact page listed below.[2]
- Collect photos, witness names, and timestamps; keep records of any communication with contractors or operators.
- If you receive a notice, follow remediation instructions, document corrective steps, and request written confirmation when compliant.
FAQ
- How do I report an illicit discharge in Burnaby?
- Use the City of Burnaby online reporting or contact Bylaw Enforcement by phone; include location, description, and photos where possible.[2]
- Will the City publish fines or penalty amounts for illicit discharges?
- The publicly available City pages consulted do not publish specific fine amounts for illicit discharge; amounts are not specified on the cited page.[1]
How-To
- Identify the location and take clear photos or short video of the discharge.
- Note date, time, flow details, and any vehicle or company identifiers.
- Submit a report via the City of Burnaby reporting portal or call the Bylaw Enforcement contact number.[2]
- Preserve evidence and follow up with City staff if you receive a case number.
Key Takeaways
- Report quickly and document evidence to support enforcement.
- City enforcement can issue orders and require remediation even if fines are not listed publicly.
- Contact Bylaw Enforcement for clarification, forms, or appeals procedures.
Help and Support / Resources
- City of Burnaby - Bylaw Enforcement
- City of Burnaby - Consolidated Bylaws
- City of Burnaby - Stormwater and drainage