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Sanitary Sewer
Inflow Problem
The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection and the United States Environmental Protection Agency have both issued directives requiring us to remove inflow from our sanitary sewerage system. What is inflow? It can best be described as rainwater which enters the sanitary sewer system through the connection of the following to the sewers:
- Roof downspouts
- Sump pumps
- Yard/patio area drains
- Exterior stairway drains
- Floor drains in basements which flood during heavy rains
The discharge of rainwater into our sanitary sewer system can lead to the following:
- Sanitary sewer overflows into creeks and other waterways
- Basement backups
- Increased sewer system operational costs
- The necessity to construct expensive major capital improvements to carry the excess water
In response to the directives, the Western Lehigh municipalities, including our township, commenced work on a corrective action plan in 2010 entitled Sewer Capacity And Reassurance Program (SCARP) which has been designed to address the inflow problem.
What Can You Do to Help?
You can assist with the following:
- Inspect your property for any of the connections listed on the Inflow Problem tab; if you have or find one of these connections and need assistance fixing it, please contact our Public Works Department
- Contact the Public Works Department with any questions
- Cooperate with the township personnel as they perform duties required by the program including possible inspections
- Look for and read additional notices you may receive
- Periodically check the township website for program updates
We look forward to your continuing cooperation as we proceed with the program.
Sanitary Sewers - Who Is Responsible?
A sewer lateral is the underground pipe that connects a residence or business to a main sewer line. These lines are the responsibility of the property owner. Tree roots, which can be extremely invasive and often shut down sewer systems are also the responsibility of the homeowner.
The main lines are the responsibility of the Lower Macungie Township Sewer Division.
Common Blockage Causes
Please help us to keep our sewer lines clear of debris. Common items found to cause blockages are:
- Cat litter
- Cigarette butts
- Coffee grounds
- Condoms
- Cotton swabs
- Dental floss
- Diapers
- Fats, oils and grease (FOG)
- Feminine hygiene products
- Latex paint
- Paper towels
- Pesticides or any hazardous chemicals
- Toys
- Tree roots
- Wipes (all sizes, whether they say flushable or not)
Tips
Remember to run water in your guest room baths and flush infrequently used toilets at least once per month to make sure the sewer trap has water in it. This will cut down on sewer odors. If you do experience an odor, it is best to call a plumber.
Keep outside clean outs covered. It is the responsibility of the homeowner to maintain, repair and replace all the clean-outs on their property whether they be close to the house, in the lawn or at the curb.