The city of Perry has issued a reminding for all property owners regarding local regulations (Perry City Code Section 135.16) governing the discharge of water into public streets, alleys and adjacent properties. The Perry City Council recently passed the new ordinance to prevent hazardous street conditions, ice formation during winter months, road damage and property disputes.
Property owners should be aware of the following rules and requirements:
Winter/Spring Discharge Ban (Nov. 1 – April 15):
It is strictly prohibited to discharge water from sump pumps or similar devices onto any city street or alley from Nov. 1 through April 15. Water on roadways during cold weather creates dangerous ice patches and hazards for drivers and pedestrians.
Other times of the year (April 16 – Oct. 31):
Discharging onto streets during these months may be permitted temporarily, but the Perry Public Works Director or Perry Building Official reserves the right to order immediate cessation if it interferes with street maintenance/construction, creates a safety hazard or becomes a public nuisance.
Proper Discharge Locations:
- Ideal connection: Directly into a city storm sewer or designated sump pump line (if available in your area).
- Property runoff: If a storm sewer connection is unavailable, all sump pump lines, downspouts and area drains must discharge onto your own residential property. Water must never be redirected or discharged onto neighboring properties.
- Never connect your sump pump to the sanitary sewer!
Non-Compliance:
Property owners should be aware that failure to comply with Perry City Code Section 135.16 could result in enforcement action up to and including a municipal infraction fine.
A city spokesperson said, “We appreciate your cooperation in keeping our streets safe and maintaining good neighborly relations across our community. If you have questions about proper sump pump hookups or storm sewer availability on your street, please contact the Public Works Department at 515-465-2481.”