Pain in the Drain | Illegal Dumping
Only public employees may access public manholes for maintenance or monitoring activities. Other, illegal discharges might result in:
- Clogged or overflowing sewer lines
- Disruption of wastewater treatment plant processes
- Damage to sewer lines and laterals
- Buildup of toxic gases in the lines
- Harmful discharges into the environment
An example of an illegal discharge is a commercial vacuum truck dumping its contents of grease interceptors, sand/oil interceptors and septic tanks. Illegal dumping into public manholes is most likely to occur at night and away from major streets. If you see a potentially unauthorized discharge, please contact the Water Reclamation District's Pretreatment Section at 434-6600.
This is what we look for to indicate a problem with illegal dumping in your area:
- Trucks discharging unknown substances into manholes in residential neighborhoods.
- An interceptor full of fats, oils, and grease after having it pumped less than 30 days prior.
- Hauling companies that offer their services for significantly less than competitors.
- Foul smells with no apparent explanation.
- Fats, oils, and grease residue in areas not commonly known for discharges.
If you see any of these things, or suspect illegal dumping, please let us know!
Call (702) 434-6600