Sump Pump Discharges

In locations with frequent sump pump discharges they can create a public nuisance where the water flows across public sidewalks, drives, and streets in-route to the storm sewer or other approved discharge point. Where these discharges result in the growth of algae or mold on sidewalks or streets they create slip hazards to pedestrians. In cold freezing winter the excessive discharges can freeze and have lasting ice accumulation creating additional hazards for pedestrians and vehicles.

When the accumulation of ice or algae creates hazards to the public that are not readily dissipated from the normal weather changes they are considered public nuisances and must be abated within a reasonable period of time.

Section 20-3 of Chapter 20 of the City Code prohibits hazardous sump pump discharges onto public Right-of-Way.

When a public nuisance from sump pump discharge is identified the owner of the property will be notified in writing of the violation and given timeframes for correction.