Sanitary Sewers

Behind the scenes and mostly out of sight, Public Utilities makes sure that wastewater (sewer) keeps flowing to protect the health and safety of City residents. 

Wastewater from homes and businesses flows into the underground sanitary sewer system. This collection system (over 1,000 miles of pipe) carries it to the pump stations (over 280 stations) nearby. This critical infrastructure is maintained by the City's Public Utilities Department. City pump stations connect to the Hampton Roads Sanitation District (HRSD) sewage collection system where it is treated at HRSD’s 9 treatment plants.

Smoke Testing

As a preventive measure, the Public Utilities checks the sanitary sewer system through the process of Smoke Testing. The process is implemented to identify sources of potential complications. Efforts are made to notify citizens before the process begins.

Save Money with Proper Use of Garbage Disposals

The garbage disposal can provide many years of service with proper usage. If you must use the disposal, the best way to clean it is with ice cubes. Turn on the disposal while running the water and slowly add a tray of ice cubes. The shattering ice will effectively scour the debris from the inside of the trap and causes no damage to the disposal.

Consider not using the disposal at all, which will help to avoid plumbing backups. Just wipe down plates and pans into the trash. Vegetable matter can be recycled in a compost pile.

Sewer Problem?

If you have a problem with your sewer, first call Public Utilities Customer Service at 757-382-6352 M-F, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. or 757-382-3550 after hours and weekends.

Related

• Chesapeake Water, sources, treatment, and delivery
• Apply for water and sewer service
• Hampton Roads Sanitation Operations Department
• Garbage disposal dos and don'ts