Issue Acknowledged

SCormier assigned this issue to SCormier

Yesterday someone on Manhattan Drive was pumping directly into the storm water drain, and on Oak St someone was pumping into the street. A lot of people have water backing up in their basements because ground is frozen and can't absorb runoff. What should people do? Can CE Office tell us what the rules are?

This is a common problem right now. What are the rules? What should people do?

One good thing would be to clear the storm drains. Might be better to put in the storm sewers than the sanitary system, if it is groundwater in the first place. (just my opinion - normally basement sump pumps are not allowed to be emptied into the streets, but also never allowed to be put into the sanitary sewer system).

This issue was assigned to the Department of Public Works. An inspector from DPW was assigned to go there today to check the conditions. It is their decision if a violations exists or not. DPW makes the determination if this is a sewer or storm water issue, not Code Enforcement.

DPW has a fact sheet for floods/sewer backups as a guide for citizens:
www.burlingtonvt.gov/WorkArea/LinkIT.aspx?itemID=12846

Excavation Inspector sent - spoke to property owner - they stopped draining water in the street. ROW Streets opened up catch basins - this issued is closed