February 12, 2021

MOOSE JAW – The City of Moose Jaw is reminding residents to inspect backflow preventers and sump pumps.

“We know that some households experience flooding and sewer backup issues in spring,” said Darrin Stephanson, Director of Public Works and Utilities,” and this current stretch of cold weather is a good time to inspect your sump pump and/or backflow preventer to ensure they are in good working condition when the snow melts.”

The City reminds residents of Section 19 of the Sewer & Water Utility Bylaw, which describes home-protection measures required by residents:

(1) Every property owner or consumer with a service connection to the City’s Sanitary Sewer System shall be responsible for preventing water or sewage from backing-up through the City’s Sanitary Sewer System and flooding the basement or any other portion of that property. 

(2) Without limiting the generality of subsection (1), every property owner or consumer shall:

(a) install, on his/her property, a suitable check valve or other approved mechanical device:

(i) by which the connection between such property and the City’s Sanitary Sewer System may be cut off or controlled;

(ii) capable of preventing water or sewage from backing-up through the City’s Sanitary Sewer System and flooding the basement or any other portion of that property; and 

(b) maintain and operate the check valve or mechanical device referred in this section so as to prevent water or sewage from backing-up through the City’s Sanitary 11 Sewer System and flooding the basement or any other portion of that property.

The City also reminds residents not to flush fats, oils or greases down sinks, floor drains or toilets, as these items can cause blockages and lead to flooding.

The view the Bylaw in full, click here.