Frequently Asked Questions

Wastewater is any water that enters a drain or closeout cap -think of toilets, showers, washing machines, sinks, and that big white pipe that sticks up in the yard. CCW’s wastewater system comprises pipes, manholes, pumps, and lift stations that move wastewater to one of six wastewater treatment plants in Corpus Christi.

Consent decrees are commonly used as an agreement between municipalities, businesses, and the federal government to plan an outline for resolving an issue over time while avoiding costly litigation. The City of Corpus Christi entered a consent decree in 2021 with the Environmental Protection Agency to protect public health and improve the wastewater system.

The agreement gives CCW oversight and management of repairs and/or renovations unique to our system’s conditions.

To understand more about EPA settlements, visit the EPA online [visit the EPA online].

A sanitary sewer overflow is when wastewater escapes from the wastewater system. Blocked sewer lines have been a consistent problem within our wastewater system.

The greatest threat from sanitary sewer overflows is the potential for wastewater to impact homes or businesses, causing property damage and threatening public health.

Flushable wipes, fats, oils, grease, goldfish, and other household items entering the wastewater system can cause blockages leading to SSO’s. Other common factors include:

• Power outages
• Rainwater entering closeout caps
• Treatment plant or lift station malfunctions
• Contractors
• Pipe failures
• Lack of capacity
• Mechanical malfunctions

Here are 5 simple things you can do to prevent sanitary sewer overflows:

• Never pour fats, oils, or grease (F.O.G.) down the drain or garbage disposal
• Clear your plates and pans of leftovers in the garbage bin before washing them
• Only flush the 3 Ps - Pee, Poo and toilet Paper
• Throw wipes, including ones labeled “flushable, plumber approved”, in the trash can
• Cap your sanitary sewer clean out

Learn more about How to Save Your Sewer »