Data on Illicit Discharge Connections coming in 2008!
What is an illicit discharge connection?
Occasionally, leads that should connect to the sanitary sewer system are mistakenly connected to the storm sewer system instead (e.g. a floor drain from a garage floor). These improper connections are not permitted by current regulations as they can allow raw sewage to flow to the Huron River via the stormwater system.
Illicit connections can also exist where stormwater drains are mistakenly connected to the wastewater system. Overloading wastewater pipes with storm water runoff after precipitation can lead to flooding in basements and over-capacity at the wastewater treatment plant.
Are Ann Arbor storm drains and wastewater treatment pipes connected?
No. The storm sewer system was designed to alleviate potential flooding after rainfall by transporting rain water quickly off paved areas and directing it to creeks, natural areas, and eventually the Huron River. In Ann Arbor, the storm water system pipes are separate from the wastewater sanitary sewer pipes that lead to the Wastewater Treatment Plant. Therefore, unlike the water used in your home, water entering the stormdrain will not be treated.
The Water Utilities Department operates and maintains the both the storm sewer system and the wastewater system. Property owners are responsible for maintenance of service leads to and from the property.
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