In the city of Cincinnati and other older large cities the sewers are what’s known as “Combined Sewer Systems”. The pipes and conduits for wastewater are shared with stormwater and it all goes to the city’s wastewater treatment plants. In Adams and Clermont counties all systems are instead “Separate Sewer Systems” where sanitary sewer systems or septic systems receive all of the piped household waste, but Stormwater is in entirely different pipes which lead directly into nearby streams with absolutely no treatment at all.
The only thing which should be flushed down a sink drain or toilet is bodily wastes, toilet paper, and standard household soaps and detergents along with effluents from your laundry and dishwasher. Wipes, diapers, harsher chemicals than soap or acids should never be flushed down a toilet. These items either interrupt the waste breakdown process at the treatment plant, or in the case of materials other than toilet paper, have to be individually raked off of settling tanks at wastewater treatment plants.
The only thing which should go down a storm drain is rain water. Period.
If you are a commercial or industrial entity or conducting new or modifying construction then you’ll need to understand what permits you may need and what regulations you must follow. For more information in Clermont County contact the the Clermont County Permit Central office at (513) 732-7213
The Clermont County Soil and Water Conservation District (also called “Soil and Water”, 513-732-7075) addresses drainage and flooding problems caused by stormwater. Soil and Water strives to enhance the quality of life in Clermont County by improving water quality through proper planning and through the promotion of effective stormwater management practices.
