Sewer Service

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FOG Program

Fats, Oils, and Greases (FOG) can cause problems with the operation of the city's sanitary sewer system by sticking to the inside of pipes and eventually clogging them. This can cause sewer backups and sanitary sewer overflows (SSOs), possibly in your home or yard.

FOG 1   FOG 2   FOG 3

FOG consists of fats, oils and greases from cooking and food waste
 
  • Meat fats
  • Sauces and dressings
  • Cooking oil
  • Shortening
  • Butter
  • Frying oil
  • Margarine
  • Lard
  • Dairy products
 FOG Clogs             

Overflowing sewers release bacteria, viruses and other pathogens that may be dangerous to human health. When sewer pipes on private property back up, the homeowner is responsible for the cleanup. Other costs associated with SSO’s include disinfecting, sampling and testing, and potential enforcement actions. Residents and business owners can help control the problem by properly disposing of fat, oil and grease.

Simple steps to keep your plumbing working well

  • Pour FOG into a sealable container and allow it to cool.  Dispose of it in the trash.
  • Scrape food scraps into the trash.
  • Wipe cookware and dishes with a paper towel before washing them to remove FOG.
  • Limit using your garbage disposal. Grinding food up does not eliminate FOG.
  • Place strainers in your sink to catch food. Dispose of the scraps in the trash.


WIPES CLOG PIPES ("Flushable" Wipes Should NOt be FLUSHED!)

Common causes of sewer overflows include pipes that become blocked by items flushed down the toilet. If you use disposable / flushable wipes or products, please put them in the trash, never in your toilet.

  • Here’s what you should not flush:
  • Baby wipes; facial wipes; personal wipes
  • Band-aids and bandage wrappers
  • Cotton balls, swabs and pads
  • Dental floss and teeth whitening strips
  • Disposable diapers, nursing pads
  • Personal hygiene products
  • Cleaning wipes; mop-head wipes
  • Needles and sharp objects
  • Motor oil, transmission fluids, anti-freeze, solvents, paints, turpentine, nail polish, polish remover or other toxic chemicals
  • Paper towels and rags 
  • Expired and unused prescription or over-the-counter medications