Our wastewater collection system moves used water from homes and businesses to the Yarmouth Wastewater Treatment Plant, where it is treated to meet regulated standards before being released to the harbour.
The system includes gravity sewers, pumping stations, force mains, and manholes. It is designed for domestic wastewater only. Putting the wrong materials into the system can cause blockages, damage municipal equipment, create environmental harm, and lead to costly repairs for both the Town and property owners.
What you should never put down sinks, drains or toilets
Even if a product is labeled "flushable," it can cause significant damage to pipes and pumps. Please dispose of these items in the garbage or through appropriate recycling/disposal programs:
- Personal Hygiene Products: Wipes (even "flushable" ones), diapers, sanitary products, cotton swabs, and bandages.
- Household Items: Dental floss, cigarette butts, and plastic materials.
- Sharps & Hazardous Materials: Razor blades, needles/syringes, paints, solvents, pesticides, herbicides, acids, and petroleum products (fuel, oil, gasoline).
- Medications: Never flush unused prescription or over-the-counter drugs.
Handling grease and food waste
Grease, fat, and cooking oil are leading causes of residential sewer blockages.
- Do not pour grease or cooking oil down the drain. It cools and hardens in pipes, acting like glue for other debris.
- Proper disposal: Scrape food scraps into your green cart (compost). Wipe greasy pans with a paper towel before washing, and dispose of the towel in your green cart or trash.
Proper disposal options
- Hazardous Household Waste: Items like paint, solvents, and pesticides should be taken to a hazardous waste depot. Visit the Wastecheck website for local schedules, events, and facility locations.
- Unused Medications: Return unused medications to your local pharmacy for safe disposal.
- Sharps & Needles: Use approved sharps containers and follow provincial guidance for medical waste disposal. Do not place these in regular garbage or recycling.
Private sewer connections: Owner responsibility
Property owners are responsible for the installation, connection, maintenance, and repair of the private sewer line (the pipe connecting your building to the municipal sewer system). If a private connection fails or causes a backup, the property owner is responsible for arranging and paying for repairs.
Watermain flushing
The Yarmouth Water Utility flushes water mains each year across all service areas to ensure water quality.
- What to expect: You may notice temporary water discoloration or fluctuations in pressure.
- What to do: If you experience discolored water, run a cold tap for several minutes until the water clears. If discoloration or low pressure persists, contact the Water Utility.
How to report a problem
- Sewer Backups or Overflows: Contact Public Works immediately.
- Business Hours: 902-742-9423
- After-Hours Emergencies: 1-833-460-8709