Sanitary Sewers

The Department of Public Works strives to keep the City’s system of public sanitary sewer mains and pumping stations in good working condition to provide reliable service to residents. Despite best efforts, it is not always possible to prevent all sanitary sewer backup problems.

Backups

Sanitary sewer backups should be reported to us before calling a plumber or contractor — the issue may be related to the main sewer line. If it occurs after hours, contact the Police Department and they will notify our on-call technician.

Sewer Backup After Hours (3:30 PM to 7:00 AM)
The Water Division has a technician on-call 24 hours a day and can be reached after hours by calling the non-emergency Police Desk at (847) 872-8000.

Sewer Backup During Working Hours (7:00 AM to 3:30 PM)
If you experience a sewer backup during normal business hours, call the Water Division at (847) 746-4060.

What to Avoid

Please do not flush handi-wipes, disposable diapers, or other similar materials down the sewer system.

Cleaning Program

The Water Division operates a proactive sewer cleaning program, routinely cleaning lines to prevent blockages and maintain smooth flow for customers.

Sump Pump Ordinance

Discharging your sump pump illegally into the sanitary sewer system can contribute to sewer backups that affect not only your home but also your neighbors. During heavy rains or thawing periods, sump pumps illegally connected to the sanitary system can overwhelm the sewers, causing backups and flooding.

Section 94-121 of the Municipal Code of the City of Zion prohibits draining stormwater into the sanitary sewer system. To help yourself, your neighbors, and the City, make sure all sump pumps and downspouts discharge outside your home.

It is illegal to have your sump pump or downspout discharge into the sanitary sewer system. If you are unsure about your setup, call us — we will be happy to check it for you.

Rates

See Rates under the Water section.