How can I prevent sewer overflows?

Prevention can save you money! Most sewer back-ups occur between the house and the Town's sewer main. If there is a blocked sewer service between the house and the Town's sewer main, the property owner is responsible for correcting the problem. Avoiding blockages means avoiding plumbing bills! When the blockage occurs in the Town's sewer main, the Town will correct the problem.

  • Do NOT pour grease, fats, and oils from cooking down the sink drain. Collect grease in a container and dispose of it in the garbage.
  • Do NOT use the sewer system as a means to dispose of food scraps. Place food scraps in waste containers or garbage bags for disposal with your weekly garbage collection or placed your food scraps in a compost pile.
  • Do NOT use the toilet as a wastebasket. Place a wastebasket in the bathroom to dispose of garbage. Disposable diapers, condoms, dental floss, rags, and personal hygiene products DO NOT belong in the sewer system!

Show All Answers

1. Why should I care what goes down the drain?
2. How do I report a sewer overflow?
3. How can I prevent sewer overflows?
4. What can happen if I put prohibited items down the drain?
5. What’s OK for households to discharge?
6. I have a restaurant. How can I control grease in my wastewater?
7. My restaurant has a grease interceptor, what should I do to maintain it?
8. Why is there a sewer odor in my building?
9. What causes a sewer back up?
10. Where is the Town's Wastewater Plant located?
11. How do wastewater treatment plants work and why are they important?