Keeping the Municipal Sewer System Healthy

In 2023, the Village Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) was upgraded through grant funding.  The WWTP collects, treats, and disposes the influent flow that comes through the Village’s municipal wastewater collections system.  Currently, the municipal wastewater collections system serves about 550 households and businesses.  The sewer system is expected to expand incrementally over the next 10 to 20 years, based on demand and Village priorities.

The map below indicates the extent of municipal sewer service to the Village as of September 2023.

Red dots are manholes.  Green lines are the mains.  Yellow areas are future extension areas.

This map does not include extension to west end of 11^th Avenue.

To ensure the protection of public health and the environment, and to keep costs to minimum for taxpayers and the Village, it is in everyone’s best interest to protect our sewer system by managing wastewater.    Wastewater is the used water from domestic or industrial use that enters the sewer system through drains.

The number one enemy is fats, oils and grease (FOG).  FOG gets into the sewers from household drains, as well as from poorly maintained grease traps in the food sector industry.  When too much FOG gets into the sewer system, it causes clogs that result in overflows which can damage your homes, business, and the environment, including nearby streams and rivers.  It can also be costly to repair for the property owner and/or the municipality.

The Village of Keremeos Sewer Rates and Regulations Bylaw #701, 2005 contains the regulatory requirements for the use of sewers, including the requirements for grease interceptors in food sector establishments.

Maintenance and Installation Requirement for Grease Interceptors – Food Sector Establishments

Online Sizing Tool for Grease Interceptors

Grease Interceptor Service Record

Grease Interceptor Cleaning Guide

Keeping FOG Out of Sewers – Residential

Additional Tips for Residential & Commercial to keep sewers healthy