USC Public Works

General Information on Sewers

Clean water is something most of us take for granted. Municipal governments, however, spend a considerable amount of time and effort to insure that the water quality in our creeks, streams, rivers, and oceans is clean.

Water produced naturally (from rain or melting snow) and water from human and household waste (toilets, sinks, bathtubs, showers, dishwashers and washing machines) is processed through a series of storm sewers or sanitary sewers - massive underground pipes systems made from either terra cotta or plastic.

Points to remember:

Sanitary sewer backups and your homeowner's coverage. Most homeowner's insurance policies do not automatically include coverage for sewer-related damage expenses. If a sewer backup should occur there is potential for significant loss. It is advisable for homeowners served by a public sewer system, particularly those with finished basements, to obtain some level of coverage.
Storm sewer lines may not be connected to sanitary lines. In compliance with the Department of Environmental Protection requirement, the Township is responsible for the testing of illegal storm water tap-ins to sanitary sewer systems. Dye testing is also required for the sale of real estate within the Township and is the responsibility of the seller.
Maintenance of Lateral Sewer Lines. The lateral sewer lines from homes that are connected to Township sewer lines are the responsibility of the property owner. When a sewage backup occurs, if the problem is due to the lateral lines, the homeowner will be responsible for correcting the problem.
Manholes are not to be covered or buried. Manholes provide access to sewers for maintenance. They must be kept uncovered so that they are quickly available in the event of a sewer emergency and to conduct tests and maintenance on the sewer system.
Keep sewer easements open. Trees, valuable plantings, and structures other than easily moved fences should not be planted or erected in sewer easements. Easement locations can be determined from property surveys or by observing the location of manholes. The imaginary line between two manholes is generally the location of an underground sewer line. Easements are a minimum of 15 feet wide.
Roots from trees may damage or clog sewer pipes. Trees, valuable plantings, and structures must be removed to maintain or repair sewers. The Township does not replace or pay for the replacement of these items and incurs additional costs in removing them for maintenance or repair of the lines.
Do not grade over sewers. No cutting or filling of earth over sewers is permitted without approval of the Township Engineer. Such grading can crush and damage sewers or make them inaccessible for future maintenance and repair.
Use Common Sense in Disposing of Waste. Do not flush diapers, sanitary napkins, tampons, tampon applicators, etc. in toilets. These materials lodge in lateral lines and clog processors at pump stations causing backups in the sewage system.
Don't pour solvents, pesticides, paint thinners, engine oil, or household cleaning products with hazardous chemicals down the drain or into storm sewers. If you need information on on how to dispose of items, contact the waste management chemist in the DEP Regional Office or call the PA HHW Hotline at 1-800-346-4242.
Use Water Wisely. Fix leaks and install water-saving devices and appliances. In addition to the environmental benefits you should see a reduction in water bills and sewer usage fees.

Department of

Public Works

Department of

Public Works

Sewer Maintenance

General Information on Sewers

Points to remember: