Report Illicit Storm Drain Discharges - Windsor

Utilities and Infrastructure Ontario 3 Minutes Read · published May 24, 2026 Flag of Ontario

In Windsor, Ontario, preventing illicit discharges to storm drains protects rivers, the Detroit River shoreline and municipal infrastructure. This guide explains how to identify, report and respond to illegal dumping or unauthorized connections to storm sewers under Windsor municipal bylaw enforcement and operational procedures. It covers enforcement pathways, possible sanctions, how to file complaints, and practical steps property owners and contractors should follow to avoid violations.

Penalties & Enforcement

Windsor enforces prohibitions on discharging pollutants to stormwater infrastructure through the citys bylaw and public works authorities. Exact monetary penalties and schedules are not specified on the cited city pages, and may be set out in specific bylaw provisions or orders; check the enforcement contact for details and record references when reporting. City of Windsor By-law Enforcement[1]

Report visible discharges immediately; quick reporting helps preserve evidence.
  • Enforcer: By-law Enforcement and Public Works inspect and issue orders.
  • Fines: not specified on the cited page; consult the enforcing bylaw or enforcement office for exact amounts.
  • Escalation: first offences, continuing offences and repeat violations may lead to tickets, increased fines or court proceedings - specific escalation steps are not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: remedial orders, stop-work directives, seizure or removal of offending connections, and court action where authorized.
  • Inspection & complaint pathway: file a report via the citys reporting portal or contact By-law Enforcement to request an inspection. Report an Illicit Discharge[2]

Applications & Forms

The city provides an online reporting form and contact route for stormwater complaints; if a specific permit or variance is required to alter storm connections, the relevant permit forms are managed by Public Works or Building Services. If no form number is shown on the cited pages, the citys reporting page and bylaw pages should be used as the primary submission method.

If you see a spill, try to note time, location and any identifying vehicle or business details before calling.

How to Identify Illicit Discharges

Common signs of illicit discharges include colored or odorous liquids entering catch basins, unexpected foam, oily sheens on water surfaces, or hoses and pipes discharging to storm grates. Contractors, property owners and municipal staff should document the scene with photos, note flow direction, and record license plates or company names when possible.

  • Evidence: take photos and timestamps for enforcement reports.
  • Common violations: floor drains tied into storm sewers, washwater discharged to gutters, improper construction dewatering.
  • Documentation: retain invoices or work orders that show source of discharge where available.
Do not attempt to physically block or divert flows in a way that creates safety hazards.

Action Steps

  • Report immediately via the city reporting page or By-law Enforcement hotline.
  • Document the incident with photos, times and any witness names.
  • Follow up with the enforcing department and request a file or reference number for appeals.

FAQ

What counts as an illicit storm drain discharge?
Any unauthorized release of pollutants, washwater, chemicals, or untreated effluent to storm sewers, ditches or roadside drains is considered an illicit discharge.
Who enforces stormwater discharges in Windsor?
By-law Enforcement and Public Works typically handle complaints and inspections; the citys reporting portal is the primary complaint pathway.
Can I appeal a bylaw ticket or order?
Appeal routes depend on the issuing bylaw and the order; ask the enforcement officer for appeal instructions and time limits when you receive a ticket or order.

How-To

  1. Observe and note location, time and visible signs of discharge.
  2. Take clear photos showing flow, any markings and nearby identifiers.
  3. Submit a report through the citys reporting page or contact By-law Enforcement directly.
  4. Keep the report reference and follow up with the enforcing office for inspection outcomes.
Keep a copy of all correspondence and evidence to support appeals or follow-up enforcement.

Key Takeaways

  • Immediate reporting preserves evidence and helps the city act faster.
  • Penalties and escalation details should be confirmed with By-law Enforcement as they are not fully listed on general pages.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Windsor By-law Enforcement
  2. [2] City of Windsor Report an Illicit Discharge

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