Sump Pumps

Public Works

Property owners use sump pumps to battle moisture and flooding issues. The basic sump pump system includes drain tile, a sump pit (which extends below the slab and collects surface water that enters the basement/crawl space or groundwater that rise to the slab), a sump pump, a float or switch, and a drain line. The drain line should direct sump water outside and onto your property without impacting adjacent properties.

Incorrect Installation
When the sump pump is connected directly to the sanitary sewer system, it adds a tremendous amount of storm water into the system. This is storm water (clean water) that does not need to be treated by the Wastewater Treatment Plant. In addition, the sanitary sewer system is not designed to handle this storm water. It will require the region to build larger and additional sewer pipes and treatment facilities, it raises sewer fees and utility rates for communities and property owners; and it can cause sewage backups into the buildings and sewage overflows into waterways and other environmentally sensitive areas. Click here to see infographic of the incorrect installation.

Correct Installation
Sump pumps should discharge water directly from the property onto the grounds or towards the street. The discharge line shall not be directly discharged  into the public right of way or discharge water in locations that would cause negative impacts to adjacent property owners or the public. The discharge line must be connected to a rigid pipe to route the water outdoors. All property owners have to abide by the sump pump ordinance 969. Click here to see infographic of the correct installation.

Foundation drains and roof gutters
Here is the proper way to connect foundation drains and roof gutters so they are not connected into the sanitary sewer system.

proper connections