Watertown City Council to Review Hauled Wastewater License Changes Monday
Northeast Radio SD News – Watertown, SD - The Watertown City Council on Monday night will take up the first reading of Ordinance No. 26‑06, a proposed update to the city’s hauled wastewater regulations under Chapter 17.05 of the Revised Ordinances. The item appears on the regular agenda and is submitted by City Manager Alan Stager.
Because this is a first reading, no action will be taken.
Purpose of the Ordinance
City staff describes the ordinance as part of a broader effort to streamline the business license application process for liquid waste haulers. The ordinance shifts license approval from the City Council to administrative review and adds an administrative appeal process for license denials or revocations.
The ordinance also updates several provisions related to licensing, insurance, bonding, and enforcement.
Key Changes Proposed
Administrative Approval of Liquid Waste Hauler Licenses
The ordinance revises Section 17.0501 to require license applications to be submitted to the City Manager or designee, rather than the City Council. Licenses will continue to be issued by the Finance Officer.
The updated section also clarifies:
· Licenses expire annually on December 31.
· Haulers must renew by January 1 each year.
· License fees remain set by City Council resolution.
· Licenses may be denied or revoked administratively for violations of city ordinances or state law.
· A new administrative appeal process is available under Section 7.22.
Insurance Requirements
The ordinance maintains existing insurance minimums for haulers:
· $250,000 bodily injury liability per person
· $500,000 aggregate bodily injury liability
· $100,000 property damage liability
· Or a combined single limit of $500,000
Policies must include a 30‑day advance notice to the Finance Office for cancellations or material changes.
Bonding Requirements
All liquid waste haulers must maintain a $25,000 bond to indemnify the public against damages caused by spills, dumping, or discharge of liquid waste, hazardous waste, or incompatible waste.
License Revocation
The ordinance clarifies that licenses may be revoked by the City Manager or designee for violations of:
· Any provision of Title 17
· Any wastewater system ordinance
· Any applicable state law
Haulers may request an administrative appeal if a license is revoked.
City Vehicles Exempt
Vehicles owned by the City are exempt from the licensing requirement.
A second reading and vote are scheduled for October 5, 2026. The Watertown City Council meets Monday, September 21, 2026. Ordinance No. 26‑06 is listed on the regular agenda, meaning it will be introduced publicly but not voted on.
