Sewer Maintenance

The wastewater collection system began installation in 1955, and continues to grow. It contains piping in sizes from 6 to 60 inches in diameter that collects flows from:

• Homes
• Businesses
• Industries
• Storm water runoff
• Muskingum County

The Sewer Maintenance crews are charged with routine cleaning, inspection, and repair of this vast system. They are also responsible for the installation and maintenance of over 300 individual home grinder pump stations located in the City’s East End.

Combined Sewer Overflow System

The City of Zanesville has a Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) system. This type of system combines normal sewer wastewater with storm water that is collected from streets. In order to reduce sewer backups during high (storm period) flows, relief points were placed in the system that discharge directly to a waterway. 

Under direction of the 1974 Clean Water Act, these types of systems must be removed or modified to allow zero discharge of untreated sewage to the waterways. In order to achieve this, the City has created a Long Term Control Plan (LTCP) with the Environmental Protection Agency. Work to achieve this goal has been ongoing for several years, and will continue until the main objective is satisfied.

If you are interested in connecting to the sewer collection system, please contact the City’s Engineering Department at City Hall at 740-455-0601, ext. 105.

Before Calling a Plumber

It is important to note that the City is responsible for the sewer main pipe, while homeowners are responsible for any problems with the pipe extended to the home (sewer lateral pipe). The Sewer Maintenance staff is available 24 hours daily for sewer backup related issues. If a problem occurs, please call the Wastewater Plant for assistance. It is recommended you call this Division prior to calling a plumber.