Stormwater Management

Stormwater Compliance

Stormwater Management is a collaborative effort between the Department of Public Works and Village Engineer.  The Village must maintain compliance with stormwater programs as outlined by the Lake County Stormwater Management Commission and the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency.

National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Phase II MS4 Permit

In 2003, the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) began issuing to small municipalities, an NPDES General Storm Water Permit for discharges from the separate storm sewer system.  The original permit covered 2003-2008.  The current permit was issued on February 20, 2009 and expires on March 31, 2014.  As part of the permit renewal process, the Village submitted a Notice of Intent (NOI) to the IEPA. Also since 2003, the Village has submitted annual reports to IEPA. Lake County Stormwater Management Commission (LCSMC) aided the municipalities of Lake County be creating a template for a Stormwater Management Program Plan (SMPP).  The SMPP aids in the submittal process of the annual report to the IEPA but also provide a clear, concise plan of action against stormwater pollution. 

The following links provide additional information relating to the NPDES program.

What is Stormwater runoff?

Stormwater runoff occurs when precipitation from rain or snowmelt flows over the ground.  Impervious surfaces like driveways, sidewalks, and streets prevent stormwater from naturally soaking into the ground.  Polluted stormwater runoff is a leading cause of impairment to the nearly 40 percent of surveyed U.S. water bodies which do not meet water quality standards.  Over land or via storm sewer systems, polluted runoff is discharged, often untreated, directly into local water bodies.  When left uncontrolled, this water pollution can result in the destruction of fish, wildlife, and aquatic life habitats; a loss in aesthetic value; and threats to public health due to contaminated food, drinking water supplies, and recreational waterways.

Illicit Discharge Reporting

Should you witness the discharge of hazardous materials to the Village’s stormsewer system or its plentiful waterways please do not confront the individual yourself.  Please call either the Department of Public Works at (847) 246-6062 or the RHMG Engineers, Inc. at (847) 362-5959 to report an illicit discharge.

Ordinance and Permit Documentation

Educational Materials…Be “In the Know”