What you can do
If you see wastewater pooling on the street or notice slow drains in your home or business, you can report a possible blockage right away. You can also check if your street is on the City's cleaning schedule by calling 311 or visiting the Service Wrenford counter at City Hall. Keeping your area's sewer mains clear helps protect your property and the environment.
How the City cleans sewer mains
Sanitary sewer mains collect wastewater from residential, commercial, and industrial buildings and carry it to the Wrenford Water Pollution Control Plant. After treatment, clean water is released into the Tamsin River. Regular cleaning keeps these pipes free-flowing and prevents blockages that could cause backups into basements or overflows into the river.
Crews use a combination vacuum truck to clean the inside of the pipes. The truck sprays high-pressure water to loosen rocks, dirt, tree roots, and debris while a powerful vacuum pulls the material out of the line. Some older lines may need a few passes to get completely clean. The time it takes depends on the size of the pipe and how much buildup is inside. The process can be noisy, and you may hear the equipment from a block or two away.
What to expect during the work
If your street is scheduled for cleaning, you will see a large City truck parked near your block for a few hours. Crews will leave cones and signs to mark the work zone, and traffic will usually continue to flow. You do not need to be home while the work is happening. However, if you notice water backing up into a floor drain or toilet during the cleaning, please call 311 right away so we can check your line.
Rules and fees
Cleaning the public sewer mains is a standard City service. There is no direct fee for residents; the work is funded through your water and wastewater utility bills. Under the Water and Wastewater By-law 2017-090, property owners are responsible for keeping their own private sewer connections clear. If your line is blocked due to tree roots, grease, or failing pipes on your property, the City can investigate the cause. If the blockage is on your side, you may be asked to cover the cost of the repair or cleaning. The City will always explain any costs before the work begins.
Who to contact
For more information about the sewer cleaning schedule in your area, or to report a problem, contact the Water and Wastewater team at 519-555-0100 or email [email protected]. You can also visit the Service Wrenford counter at Wrenford City Hall, 100 Mercer Street, Wrenford, ON N4Q 1A1. For after-hours emergencies, call 519-555-0111.