Sump Pumps

The Village Code requires that residents disconnect sump pump discharges that flow to the street and redirect the flow onto their own property between November 1st and April 1st. This is done to prevent ice buildup in the streets which could create a hazard to both motorists and pedestrians alike, as well as cause excessive damage to our roadways and snow removal equipment.

Most homes have two sump pumps. The first sump pump is connected to the sanitary sewer. It removes any water generated within the house, such as water from floor drains in a basement, overflows from washing machines, and waste in lower parts of the house. Since it is possible that this water may have come in contact with household chemicals, it must be sent to the wastewater treatment plant before being discharged into the environment. The second sump pump is either discharged to the storm sewer or to turf in a yard. This sump pump removes water from the drain constructed around the outside of the basement walls. This pump plays an important part in protecting the basement walls from damage during rain events and in keeping basements dry. Since this water’s source is rain or groundwater, it is considered clean and does not need to be treated by the wastewater treatment plant.

Sending clean storm water to the wastewater treatment plant can overload the plant during periods of heavy rainfall, and can cost the taxpayers a great deal of money. Therefore, the Village has established an inspection program to ensure that stormwater sump pumps are not “cross-connected” to the sanitary sewer system. If you would like more information on this program, please contact Utilities Superintendent Terry Hawkins at (847) 883-8600.