Public Works
Sewer Backups
Key Contact
Kerry Grassley
610-374-8273 Ext. 401
Think Before You Flush
Do not flush:
- Tissues and paper towels
- Single-use wipes (cleansing, diaper, etc.)
- Diapers
- Feminine hygiene products
- Disposable toilet brushes
- Disposable gloves
- Cotton swabs
- Dental floss
- Kitty litter
These items don’t break down like toilet paper and can quickly block sewer systems.
No Grease Down the Drain
Refrain from disposing food scraps, grease, fat, or oil down the drain. These should also be disposed of in the trash to help keep wastewater pipes clear. Grease, fat, and oil can solidify and adhere to the insides of the pipes that carry wastewater from homes and businesses. Over time, these buildups can restrict the flow of wastewater.
Garbage disposals do not prevent grease from washing down the drain. Detergents that claim to dissolve grease may pass it down the line and cause problems in other parts of the wastewater system.
Many sewer blockages occur between the house or business and the sewer main, where the property owner is responsible for correcting and paying for the repair.
Call for Sewer Backups
At any time, day or night when a sewer backup occurs at your home or business your first call should be to the Borough. As part of your sewer maintenance fee, the Public Works Department will plunge the sewer trap located near your home/business in an effort to remove the clog, possibly saving you the expense of hiring a plumber. If the clog is located between your home and the curb line, we will notify you of the need for plumbing services. The Borough maintains the sewer system from the curb to the main.
During normal business hours, Monday through Friday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, contact Borough Hall at (610) 374-8273, ext. 221. Outside of normal business hours contact the non-emergency Police line at (610) 373-0111 to dispatch a member of the Public Works Department to your location.