Inflow and Infiltration

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Inflow and Infiltration (I/I) occur when groundwater or rainwater flow into the sewer system, either through a direct connection or through seepage through cracked laterals, leaky pipe joints and/or deteriorated manholes. Flows into the City’s sewer system from I/I can create a variety of problems and can lead to spills and compliance problems.

Sewer laterals have been identified as a significant source of I/I and the Utilities Department will be looking into a program to help homeowners replace their damaged laterals. The City is interested in hearing from our customers about this important issue.

Sources of I/I

What is the difference between a sanitary sewer and a storm sewer?

What is a private sanitary sewer lateral?

What is an illegal connection?

How much water does I/I really add to the City's system?

Why do we need to fix this now?

Areas within the system are exceeding the designed capacity to convey wastewater to the Wastewater Treatment Plan. Excess water entering the system can contribute to environmental and public health hazards in the form of sanitary sewer overflows, additional costs associated with treatment, and pipeline replacement costs due to undersized infrastructure.

Control treatment, prevent overflows cost If I/I is not reduced the increased flow will require a major increase of sewer rates in order to accommodate additional treatment costs and a Wastewater Treatment Plant expansion.

Untreated wastewater discharges and sanitary sewer overflows are water quality violations and are detrimental to the environment.

What if I still have questions?