The groundwater table in our area is high. For that reason, many properties make use of sump pumps to keep their basements dry.

However, sump pump discharges can be troublesome to our infrastructure.

1. Sump pumps cannot be directed into the sanitary sewer:
   • This increases the chance for sewer backups into your home due to full pipes
   • Sending clean water to the wastewater treatment facility increases the amount of water they treat which increases everyone’s wastewater bill
2. Sump pump plumbing cannot block sidewalks:
   • We need to keep our sidewalks accessible to all citizens including those with low vision and those traveling with strollers
3. Sump pump plumbing cannot be drilled through a concrete curb:
   • This weakens the integrity of the cut concrete
   • The direct, constant discharge increases the number of freeze/thaw events and reduces the lifespan of the street 

If you have a sump pump, raise the floats as high as possible so the pump runs less frequently - this helps the street to dry out in between pump cycles.  Scrub away any algae buildup - algae creates slick spots which are dangerous to traffic. Keep the gutter clean so your sump pump discharge doesn't get blocked by yard waste or debris on its way to the drain. Get creative to find a use for this water - direct your discharge to a cistern or rain barrel for use in your garden, lawn, or toilet. Investigate the possibility of connecting your pump directly to the storm sewer system or work with your neighbors to create a temporary piping solution.

The Water Discharge Policy is posted on the Engineering website and specifies the preference for sump pump discharge. It is the City’s policy to accommodate water discharges where possible, only taking action to address problems.

If you have a problem that needs addressed, please call (308) 646-6557 to speak to the Stormwater Department directly. You can also contact the Public Works Department at (308) 385-5455 or digitally via email, Facebook, or Twitter. All reports will be investigated. Please be patient as resolving these issues is costly and takes time.