The City’s sanitary sewer system is designed to carry high-strength pollutants wastewater and sewerage. The wastewater is conveyed through a sewer network of underground pipes discharging into EBMUD’s wastewater interceptor system, which transports it to EBMUD’s main wastewater treatment plant for treatment.
Those interested in discharging to Oakland’s sanitary sewer system are required to submit an application describing the type of discharge proposed, the quantity of water to be discharged, and proof of compliance with other permitting requirements. The application will be reviewed to ensure the proposed discharge will not overwhelm the City’s sanitary sewer system. An approved permit specifies the conditions and locations where the wastewater may be discharged into the City’s sanitary sewer system. Permits are issued for a specified duration, restricting volume, rate, time of discharge, and collection of the fee, and tailored to each applicant. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure all permitting requirements are met.
A Temporary Sanitary Sewer Discharge Permit cover non-routine discharge activities such as (this is not a comprehensive list and in shall not be viewed as such):
- Dewatering of construction sites
- Fire hydrant flushing
- Potable water sources
- Wash down surfaces
- Vehicle or equipment wash water
- Contaminated groundwater
- Fats, oils, or grease
- Paints, solvents, cleaners, etc.
- De-watering of wells drilled to investigate or mitigate a suspected contaminated site
- Any other activity that generates wastewater