City of Campbellsville

Stormwater Management

Protecting Local Waterways Through Smart Planning and Community Action

Stormwater & Our Community

Stormwater management plays an important role in protecting Campbellsville’s streams, creeks, and waterways. By managing runoff and preventing pollution before it reaches the storm drain system, the City helps safeguard environmental health, public safety, and water quality for future generations.

An informed and engaged community is essential to the success of this effort.

Contact

Bobby Sexton
Supervisor

Address:
109 W. Main Street
Campbellsville, KY 42718

Phone: (270) 465-7011
Fax: (270) 789-0251

Public Education & Awareness

Helping Protect Our Water Starts at Home

Education is one of the most effective tools for improving stormwater quality. Small, everyday actions can make a meaningful difference.

Seasonal Focus: Pet Waste
Pet waste may seem minor, but when left on the ground it can wash into storm drains and local waterways during rainfall. This contributes to water pollution and environmental impairment.

How you can help:

  • Always clean up after pets

  • Dispose of pet waste in proper trash containers

  • Never leave waste near storm drains or waterways

These simple steps go a long way toward keeping Campbellsville’s water clean.

Stormwater Permits

Construction & Land Disturbance Permits

Under the Clean Water Act, the City of Campbellsville’s MS4 program requires a stormwater permit for most ground-disturbing activities.

If your project involves soil disturbance, grading, or construction, a permit may be required. Please review the options below to determine the appropriate permit for your project.

Permit Downloads:

If you are unsure which permit applies, City staff can assist you.

Illicit Discharge Education

What Is an Illicit Discharge?

An illicit discharge is any discharge to the stormwater system that is not made up entirely of stormwater, with limited exceptions such as firefighting activities or permitted industrial discharges.

Stormwater systems are designed to carry rainwater only — not wastewater, chemicals, or pollutants.

Common Sources of Illicit Discharges

Illicit discharges can come from many everyday activities, including:

  • Sanitary wastewater or septic system leaks

  • Car wash wastewater

  • Improper oil or automotive fluid disposal

  • Radiator flushing or vehicle maintenance runoff

  • Laundry wastewater

  • Roadway accident spills

  • Improper disposal of household chemicals or toxins

These pollutants can enter the system through direct connections or indirect infiltration and flow untreated into local waterways.

Why Illicit Discharges Matter

Illicit discharges introduce pollutants such as:

  • Oil and grease

  • Heavy metals

  • Bacteria and viruses

  • Solvents and chemicals

  • Nutrients and toxins

Studies have shown these pollutants can significantly degrade water quality and pose risks to aquatic life, wildlife, and public health.

Allowable (Non-Illicit) Discharges

Not all non-stormwater flows are considered illicit. Common allowable discharges include:

  • Landscape irrigation and lawn watering

  • Water line flushing

  • Dechlorinated swimming pool water

  • Air conditioning condensation

  • Foundation and footing drains

  • Springs and uncontaminated groundwater

  • Individual residential car washing

Contact Stormwater