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1. Is the smoke used in wastewater collection system smoke testing harmful?

The smoke that is visible is non-toxic, harmless and creates no fire hazard.

2. Will City crews need to enter my home during wastewater collection system smoke testing?

No, crews will not enter your home during the smoke test.

3. What if I see smoke in my house during wastewater collection system smoke testing?

To ensure no smoke enters your home, please pour about three cups of water into any drains that are not used often prior to the testing in your area. If you do see white smoke inside your home during a time when smoke testing is underway, open all doors and windows to ventilate your home.

4. Why does the City perform wastewater collection system smoke testing?

The wastewater collection system smoke testing process is used as a way to locate defective openings and inappropriate connections in the sewer system that allow rainwater runoff to enter, which decreases the system's capacity and ability to handle normal flows. By finding and repairing these defects, the city is able to defer expensive infrastructure needs and reduce the burden on utility customers.

5. How will I be notified when wastewater collection system smoke testing will be happening in my neighborhood?

Once an area is scheduled to be smoke tested, crews will post signs to alert residents and property owners that they will be working in the area. Signs will also be posted during active smoke testing.

6. How long will the City’s crews be working in my neighborhood during wastewater collection system smoke testing?

Crews will typically work on your street for less than a day, unless defects are found in the sewer line. Where repairs are needed, City crews will schedule repairs and notify homeowners in advance of repairs. Due to the number of defects typically identified during this process, repairs may be scheduled several months after smoke testing is completed.

7. Will my yard or sidewalk be disturbed during wastewater collection system smoke testing?

Crews will not dig anywhere during smoke testing. Crews will use paint and/or marking flags to indicate defect locations. Where repairs are needed, city crews will schedule repairs and notify homeowners in advance of repairs. If needed, marked defects may be excavated and restored by repair crews. Due to the number of defects typically identified during this process, repairs may be scheduled several months after smoke testing is completed.

8. Who should I call with questions about wastewater collection system smoke testing on my street?

For any questions, please email Billy Williams in the Wastewater department or call 940-349-8489.

9. What type of equipment will be working on my street during wastewater collection system smoke testing?

Crews will use service trucks, smoke blowers, and small off-road vehicles during smoke testing. Where repairs are needed, crews may return with excavation equipment.

10. What times of day will you be working on my street for wastewater collection system smoke testing and repairs?

Crews work 7 am to 4 pm, Monday through Friday.

11. Who do I contact if damage is done to my property or if a data or utility line is cut during wastewater collection system smoke testing or repairs?

Any damage done during smoke testing may be reported to Billy Williams in the Wastewater department by email or by calling 940-349-8489. Any subsequent or unrelated utility issues may be reported to Utilities Dispatch at 940-349-7000, or through the Engage Denton app.