Stormwater 

The Stormwater Utility acknowledges that we are in the aboriginal territories of the Salish, Kootenai, and Kalispel people. Today, we honor the path they have always shown us in caring for this place for the generations to come.

Mission Statement

The Stormwater Utility is committed to protecting public health and safety, natural resources, waterways, and our aquifer, while meeting or exceeding state and federal environmental quality regulations.

Pay Your Stormwater Bill

2023 Stormwater Management Program

Please visit this link to comment on the City's Stormwater Management Program

Stormwater 2022 Annual Report

Stormwater 2022 Annual Report Highlights

2022 Annual Report Highlights_COVER ONLY Opens in new window

City of Missoula MS4 Permit Overview

2022-2026 DEQ MS4 General Permit

2022 Notice of Intent Application Package

MS4 Permit Overview cover page

Interesting Facts About Stormwater

Stormwater runoff is the leading cause of water pollution in Montana.

Missoula’s stormwater does not go to the Wastewater Treatment Plant.

Most of the City’s stormwater is discharged to our aquifer, via more than 6,000 dry wells, also known as sumps.

We have more than 60 miles of pipes that discharge stormwater to one of five water bodies; Clark Fork River, Bitterroot River, and Grant Creek do not meet water quality standards.

Our levees and floodwall protect more than $14 billion worth of property from potential flooding.

Together with other City and County programs, we work to keep our aquifer and waterways clean.

Missoula Urban Water Life Cycle process of Storm water, drinking water, and wastewater.

Everyday Pollutants

Runoff from Missoula properties and streets collect in stormwater inlets, flowing directly to our aquifer, rivers, and streams. This runoff can carry pollutants: oil from our cars, fertilizer from our gardens, animal waste, spilled chemicals, trash left on the ground, sediments, and anything else small enough to be picked up by stormwater. These pollutants affect our local industries and economies downstream. Together, we are working to reduce these pollutants and keep our rivers and streams safe and clean.

Illicit Discharge

Worried there might be a polluting, illicit discharge in your neighborhood? You can either use the online form or call the general spill reporting number 406-258-4890. Any discharge not comprised entirely of rainfall or snowmelt is illicit and should be reported. Call 911 if reporting an illicit discharge after hours or in the event of a serious hazard to life, property, or environment. The Missoula Valley Water Quality District (MVWQD), a division within the Missoula City-County Health Department, responds to illicit discharges.

The Missoula Valley Water Quality District (MVWQD), a division within the Missoula City-County Health Department, responds to illicit discharges.

If you would like to report an illicit discharge or have a stormwater construction site concern you may use the online reporting form or call 406-258-4890 during regular business hours or for an after-hours matter, please call 911.