Pollution Prevention Hotline

Only rain down the drain

When water carrying pollutants such as fertilizer, pesticides, oil, antifreeze, pet waste, or paint enters a storm drain or stream, it is called an “illicit discharge”. Polluted stormwater can harm the streams and rivers we depend on for fishing, recreation, ecological value and our water supply. 

It is illegal to dump waste into a storm drain (Municipal Code Section 4.04). If you see someone using a storm drain for disposal, Report It! You can do this anonymously by calling the City of Corvallis 24-Hour Pollution Prevention Hotline at 541-766-6565. 

How do you spot an illicit discharge? Watch for:

  • anyone dumping waste into a storm drain
  • off-colored discharge, stains or unusual odors in gutters and storm drains
  • off-colored discharge in a stream, especially near a stormwater outfall

When you call in to make a report to the Stormwater Pollution Prevention Hotline, you’ll need to provide the following information in your description of the incident:

  • the location of the gutter, storm drain or stream section in which you noticed the pollution or illicit discharge
  • the date and time you saw the incident
  • any information you have about the type of pollution
  • any available information about the source of the pollution

Your call can be anonymous, or you can leave your name and contact information if you would like your call returned. The Stormwater Pollution Prevention team at the City of Corvallis uses an educational approach first to promote pollution prevention, but if needed will use legal authority for violators.

Allowable non-stormwater discharges.