How is water from a sanitary sewer system different from stormwater runoff or from a storm drain?

Sanitary sewer drains are designed to drain wastewater and sewage from inside our homes. The sanitary sewer drains lead to the sanitary sewer system and ends up at a wastewater treatment plant. Unlike stormwater runoff from yards, streets, parking lots, etc, wastewater in this system is treated before being discharged into a natural water body.

Stormwater Runoff

Surface water runoff also called stormwater runoff flows across the top of yards, parking lots, streets, etc. In suburban areas, stormwater runoff enters a storm drain that takes water directly to the nearest water body. Water in a storm drain is untreated so it contains pollutants picked up by stormwater runoff and runs directly to the nearest creek or lake.

Show All Answers

1. Why should I be concerned about polluted streams?
2. How can I support clean water efforts?
3. How can I protect my watershed?
4. What can I do at home to reduce stormwater pollution?
5. What is the difference between ground water and stormwater runoff?
6. How is water from a sanitary sewer system different from stormwater runoff or from a storm drain?
7. Who can I contact for information?
8. Who should I call to report a source of pollution or drainage problem?
9. Is there a list of recycling centers in Jefferson County?
10. How does stormwater runoff become polluted?
11. Is stormwater runoff treated at a waste water facility?
12. What is an Illicit Discharge?