Watertown Residents: Sump Pump Deadline Approaches March 15

Watertown, South Dakota Releases Updated Sump Pump Regulations to Ensure Effective Water Management.

Northeast Radio SD News – Watertown, SD: The City of Watertown Public Works Department is issuing a final reminder to all residents: the seasonal variance for sump pump discharges ends soon. By March 15, 2026, all sump pump water must be diverted away from the city’s sanitary sewer system.

To ensure compliance and protect local infrastructure, residents are required to redirect discharge to their yards, the street, or other city-approved locations.

Why the Switch is Necessary

Directing “clean” sump pump water into the sanitary sewer puts an immense strain on the city’s resources. According to the Wastewater Division, just 100 sump pumps can add over one million gallons of water to the system daily.

This influx is significant because the city’s wastewater facility is designed to treat only 4 million gallons per day. Exceeding this capacity creates serious risks, including:

·         Basement Backups: Excessive water can cause sewage to back up into your home or your neighbor’s basement.

·         Environmental Strain: Overloading the system impacts the facility’s ability to treat wastewater effectively.

·         Increased Costs: Treating clean groundwater costs the same as treating sewage, which can lead to higher sewer rates for all residents.

Preventing Freezing and Managing Runoff

City officials acknowledge the challenges of managing water during freezing conditions. Residents are encouraged to place their discharge hoses on a slope to ensure they drain completely and do not freeze. For visual examples of proper setups, the city has provided resources at www.watertownsd.us/freezing.

Additionally, the city recommends installing gutters and downspouts with long extensions. This simple step diverts water away from your foundation, reducing the frequency with which your sump pump runs.

Compliance and Penalties

Discharging into the sanitary sewer without a written variance after March 15 is illegal. Under local regulations, violations are classified as a Class 2 Misdemeanor. Penalties may include:

·         Fines of up to $500.

·         Up to 30 days in jail.

·         Each day of noncompliance is considered a separate violation.

Questions? The City of Watertown appreciates its residents’ cooperation in protecting our shared infrastructure. If you have questions regarding your sump pump setup or the upcoming deadline, please contact the Wastewater Facility at (605) 882-6244