Sanitary Sewer Issues

After Hours 

In the event of sanitary sewer issues after normal business hours, M-F 4:00 p.m. to 8 a.m., including weekends and holidays, please call the Chesterton Police Department at 219-926-1136. The Police Department will contact the on-call Utility employee to respond to your issue.

Backups

Property owners should check with their insurance agent if concerned about coverage for sewer backups, as most policies require a rider to cover backups.

The Town of Chesterton Utility has a comprehensive sewer cleaning program, yet backups may still occur. The Utility has ordinances limiting what is allowed into the sewer system, but has little control of what is actually flushed into the system by its customers.

Blockages

Footballs, baseballs, frisbees, grease, bath towels, and more have all been found in a sewer pipe or lift station, contributing to blockage or damage.

Grease is a big issue because it cools to form clumps and attaches to larger items to restrict flow, thereby increasing the chance for a backup. Grease should never be poured down a drain.

REMINDER

DO NOT flush wipes of any kind down the toilet. The wipes block and/or damage pumps.

Maintenance

The Chesterton Utility takes pride in maintaining the collection system to prevent sewer backups. However, if a backup does occur, we will promptly respond to address the issue and work with any affected homeowner to prevent or minimize any potential damage.