Sewage-related concerns such as backups, overflows, odours, or wastewater issues can affect public health and the environment. The city maintains the sanitary sewer system that serves residential and commercial properties. Reporting sewage issues helps prevent contamination and ensures problems are addressed quickly.
Residents can submit a service request to report sewage-related concerns. The location of the issue is required. Contact details are needed in case more information is required. When reporting, it is helpful to describe the nature of the problem, such as backup, overflow, or odour, and whether it is affecting indoor or outdoor areas.
If raw sewage is actively overflowing into a building or public area, this should be reported as an emergency.
Sewage reports may include the following:
Sewage backing up into basements or buildings
Sewage overflowing from manholes or cleanouts
Strong sewage odours in public areas
Suspected leaks in the sanitary sewer system
Wastewater discharging into storm drains or waterways
Reported concerns are reviewed to confirm the issue and determine the appropriate response. Work is scheduled based on factors such as health risks, environmental impact, and available resources.
When a sewage issue is reported, the following may occur:
The report is reviewed to assess the severity
A crew may be dispatched to investigate the location
The sewer line may be inspected and cleared
Repairs may be scheduled if damage is found
The area may be cleaned and sanitized
There are a few additional things to keep in mind:
Property owners are responsible for the sewer lateral connecting their building to the main
Do not enter areas where sewage is present without protective equipment
Active overflows should be reported immediately
Grease and improper materials in drains can cause backups
Residents are encouraged to report sewage concerns with detailed information about the location and nature of the problem so that crews can respond quickly to protect public health and the environment.