Preventing Sewage Backups in Your Home

Sewer backups occur when there is a blockage in the sewer pipe that obstructs the normal flow of wastewater.

This can cause sewage, dirty water or wastewater to backflow into your home through a sink, toilet, or drain.

For more information on how to protect your pipes, please click here.

How to Help Prevent a Sewer Backup

Install a sewer backflow preventer in your home.

You should inspect and maintain this valve as part of regular maintenance to your home following the steps below:

Locate your backwater valve and remove the plug or panel.
Shine the flashlight around the area and look for debris. Debris stuck in the gate can cause the sewer backwater valve to stop working.
Clean the area. Flush the valve with a bucket of water to clear debris from the gate area. If that doesn't work, scrub the area to remove it.
Once clean, move the gate back and forth to make sure it moves without any problems. If it's stiff or you see rust, oil it a little bit.
Check the O-ring on the backwater valve. If it's cracked or damaged, replace it.
Replace the plug or panel on top of the valve.

What to Do If You Have a Backup?

Step 1: Call a Plumber

Please call a plumber who will insert a closed-circuit television (CCTV) camera down the line to see what issues are causing the sewer backup. Please ensure that you receive a copy of the video recording.

Step 2: Submit an Online Service Request with the Town of Ponoka

Please fill out the online form here and click submit. Or you can phone the Town Office at 403-783-4431 where staff can help fill out the form for you.

Please be sure to provide your contact information when filling out the online form to ensure we can reach you to gather additional information if necessary and to send you an email informing you when your request is completed.

Please note: The Town of Ponoka is only responsible for the portion of your sewer service line that runs from your property into the street.

Removing Tree Roots

Tree roots can enter sewer lines, and grow and expand causing cracks and blockages.

Rodding equipment used by private plumbers can remove some roots but a significant quantity will remain. Root removal by this method has an effect similar to pruning a hedge and can encourage further growth.

In many cases, roots might have to be treated with an herbicide that removes existing roots and also inhibits future growth for three to five years.

Who is Responsible?

The Town of Ponoka is responsible for trees that are located on public land along boulevards, back alleys, and Town-owned properties, parks and greenspaces.
Homeowners are responsible for trees located on their private property. To see if tree roots are impacting your sewer line, please call a plumber who will insert a closed-circuit television (CCTV) camera down the line to see if any issues are present.