Water Distribution, Sewer Collection, and Storm Drains

The Department of Public Works, Utility Division maintains water meters, water distribution, sewer collection and storm drain systems.

Water Distribution

Did you know...

  • Distributes approximately 1.5 billion gallons of potable water per year to City residents and business
  • Read approximately 12,710 water meters
  • Operates and maintains about 140 miles of water mains with service to 12,200 water accounts
  • Operates and maintains approximately 1,240 fire hydrants and 2,900 water valves
  • About 5% of the City's water mains are over 100 years old and about 15% are over 90 years old

Sewer Collection

Did you know...

  • Collects approximately 5 million gallons of wastewater per day 
  • Operates and maintains 25 wastewater pumping stations
  • Operates and maintains about 125 miles of sanitary mains with service to 11,200 sewer accounts
  • About 20% of the City's Sewer mains are over 75 years old

Storm Drains

Did you know...

  • All the storm drains  in the City discharge to the Chesapeake Bay
  • Maintain over 1800 inlets quarterly
  • Maintain over 35 outfalls as well as ponds and ravines twice a year
  • Operates and maintains about 60 miles of storm drain lines

Helpful Water, Sewer, and Storm Drain  Information and Links

Water & Sewer System Evaluation 10 Year Plan

Water Service

  • Water Protest Form - To start an investigation on the amount of water being billed.
  • Utility Billing Information - Start/ Stop Service, making payment
  • Current Utility Rates
  • Water Main Break - If you see large volumes of water flowing or bubbling down the street, it could be a water main break. Reported immediately 410-263-7970, from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, or after hours, weekends, or Holidays at 410-224-2140.

Sewer Service

  • Sewer Overflow - If you experience a sewer overflow, discontinue inside water use and report immediately 410-263-7970, from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. After hours, weekends, or Holidays at 410-224-2140.
  • Sewer Cleanout - As a property owner, you are responsible for your cleanout and backwater valve.  If the cleanout is buried, a registered plumber should be able to locate and raise it to grade.  If it is hidden, you will need to make it easy for our crew to locate.
  • What can I do to prevent sewer backups

Storm Drain

  • Storm drains lead directly to the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries, therefore it is important to keep material out of storm drains. 
  • Leaves and trash can clog storm drains which impacts their ability to drain water from streets and properties.
  • How to keep your Bay Healthy and our Drains Free and Clear