Frequently asked questions

 

What is Clearwater?

Clearwater is storm or rainwater.  This is different than waste water which is discharged from sinks, showers, toilets into the sanitary sewer.

What is the reason for the Clearwater ordinance?

The Department of Natural Resources has directed the City of Appleton, as well as other neighboring communities, to reduce the amount of Clearwater entering the sanitary sewer system.  Excessive amounts of Clearwater entering our sanitary system can create an overloading of the sanitary sewer mains and an undesirable impact of millions of gallons of clear water on the sewage plant and lift stations, which are all part of the system.  Excessive water entering the lift stations results in higher maintenance costs to the station, and in turn, to the ratepayer.  None of this water requires treatment and only adds to the cost of sewage treatment through the system.

What buildings are affected?

All one and two family homes which were constructed prior to 1980.  The ordinance is only enforced at time of sale.

Why only homes constructed before 1980?

This is the year when the State of Wisconsin and the City of Appleton adopted the Uniform Dwelling Code, which requires the installation of sump pumps when drain tile is present.

Why doesn’t the city find other ways of eliminating Clearwater?

Actually, the City has completed many sewer rehabilitation projects to correct infiltration problems associated with sewer mains and manholes.  However, there is still a considerable amount of Clearwater entering the sewer system.  Due to this excessive amount, we have reason to believe that much of this water is entering the system thru private mains.

When did the City initiate the Clearwater Inspection program?

May 1, 2005.

How do I schedule an appointment?

Appointments may be scheduled by calling the inspection department at 832-6411 weekdays between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

When should I schedule an appointment?

It is recommended that inspections be scheduled as soon as you list your home for sale, if not earlier, if you know that you plan on selling your home.  In this way, if any corrections are needed, it allows you time to complete them prior to the sale.

Does every residence need a sump pump?

No.  If there are no drain tiles visible, a sump pit and pump will not be required. 

What are some typical violations that would require a correction?

The most common violations are the following: 

1.      The building has a sump pump that is discharging to the sanitary sewer-perhaps to a floor drain.  The correction would be to discharge it to outside the building.

2.      The building has a sump pump, but still has drain tiles leading into a floor drain.  The correction would be to plug the drain tiles and redirect the water to the sump pump.  Note:  The drain tiles must be sealed off in a certain method to be compliant.

3.      The home does not have a sump pump, but has drain tiles leading into a floor drain.  The correction would be to install a sump pit and pump, redirect the drain tiles into the sump pit, and discharge the water to outside the building.

If violations are found, how long do I have to make the corrections?

60 days from the date of the inspection.

What if my residence sells quickly and I don’t have time to make corrections?

The corrections may be done by the buyer if he agrees to make the corrections.  Any money necessary for repairs would have to be put into an escrow account.

Do I need a permit for this work?

Currently, no.

Who can do the work?

There is no license requirement for the installer.  You can do it yourself, have a friend do it or you can hire a professional to do the work if you choose.

After the work is completed, then what?

After the work has been completed, you must schedule an appointment to have the work re-inspected for compliance.  Once it is in compliance, a form will be filled out and given to you stating such.

What if my building is found to be in compliance during the initial inspection?

If the building is in compliance, you will be given a form stating such.

What do I do with this compliance form once I have it?

Generally, the title company will ask for it at time of closing.  If you are working with a real estate agent, they may want the form to bring with them to the closing.  If you are selling the building by yourself, just bring it with you.

What if I fail to schedule an appointment or what if I fail to correct violations that are found?

You will more than likely receive a citation and end up in court.  Regardless, an inspection will still have to be scheduled and any necessary work will still have to be done.

Even if we are not selling our home, and we are now aware of violations in our residence, what should we do?

The City of Appleton encourages all residents to be proactive in taking measures to correct any violations.  Our goal is to reduce the wet weather load on our sewage treatment system and treatment plant.  The ultimate goal of these efforts is to obtain savings to the ratepayers.