Wastewater
The City bills customers based on water and wastewater services. Wastewater is the water that flows down the internal drains and out to the city’s wastewater collection system.
Westminster's Wastewater Collections system consists of about 411 miles of sanitary sewer piping, 11,000 manholes, and six lift stations, which are pumps that help keep the wastewater flowing. City crews are always out inspecting our pipes to ensure they're not blocked, rusted, or otherwise damaged.
Westminster owns and operates the wastewater collection infrastructure. From your home/property to the tap at the city wastewater mainline, including the tap, is considered private property.
Residents may contact the City's Public Works department for assistance with service issues such as low pressure, water leaks on the public side, or clogged sewers at 303-658-2500.
Westminster wastewater is treated at one of two treatment plants- The City of Westminster's Big Dry Creek Wastewater Treatment Facility or by our partners at Metro Water Recovery. Learn more about the treatment process here.
The federal Clean Water Act sets water quality standards that protects waterways by requiring communities to treat wastewater before it is released into its waterways, which in our city is Big Dry Creek
The full treatment process creates clean water and biosolids. It takes about 12 to 18 hours for a gallon of raw sewage to be cleaned, treated, and released into the Big Dry Creek.
Big Dry Creek Wastewater Treatment Facility converts wastewater into three beneficial products:
- Effluent: Treated water that is released into Big Dry Creek.
- Reclaimed Water: Water that is further cleaned and used for irrigation at parks and golf courses during the summer.
- Biosolids: Nutrients that are applied to farmland.
Don't Flush Medicine
Do not flush it down the toilet or wash it down the sink. Although it might seem harmless, it's not. Studies have found that flushed medications can contaminate our lakes and streams, which can hurt wildlife and potentially end up in our drinking water.
There are plenty of safe medication take back locations across the Denver Metro. You can find safety disposal tips here.
Fats, oils, grease, and grit (FOGG) contributes to clogged sewer pipes. As FOGG builds up and clogs sewer pipes, it may contribute to wastewater backing up into homes and businesses resulting in a messy and expensive repair. Dispose of FOGG in the trash.
Examples of FOGG:
- Butter
- Cooking oil
- Grease
- Food scraps
- Lard
- Margarine
- Meat
- Shortening
Tips For Safe FOGG Disposal
- Pour the grease into an old coffee can or pickle jar.
- Wipe out your pans before washing them in the sink.
- Seal the oil.
FOGG Retention Program
The FOGG Retention Program is designed to help businesses properly manage their fats, oils, grease, and grit (FOGG) and prevent it from entering the sewer system. Businesses that participate in the FOGG Retention Program receive educational materials and training on best management practices.
Businesses are required to install, maintain, and clean out a properly sized grease interceptor or grease trap. Westminster conducts compliance inspections and provides education to participating businesses.
The city regularly conducts FOGG inspection on all grease interceptors to ensure it is properly maintained and functioning.
Here are some additional reasons to schedule a meeting with our FOGG inspector:
- You are a new business and have questions such as why or if you need one and where you can get one.
- Received a "failure notice."
- Noticed slow drainage or backups in your sinks or drains and have had them cleaned recently.
- Experienced foul odors coming from your plumbing system
- Recently changed your menu or cooking practices, which could impact the amount of FOGG generated in your kitchen
- Recently made changes to your plumbing system or added new equipment that could impact the grease interceptor.
Tips For Businesses Managing FOGG
- Strain or filter oil in deep fryers to help your cooking oil last longer.
- Be sure to monitor your deep fryer's temperature so you don't scorch your oil. Temperature regulation helps keep oil out of the grease interceptor.
- Recycle cooking oils and leftover grease into a yellow grease container for removal.
- Recycled grease and oil can be turned into products such as biodiesel fuel, animal feed, and even cosmetics.
- Maintain your grease interceptor. It's important to regularly pump your FOGG retention device after cleaning to ensure it is working properly.
If you would like to schedule a meeting with our FOGG inspector, call the City's Wastewater Division for assistance at 303-658-2500.
An access card is required to use the dump station. Residents and non-residents can apply for an access card by completing the RV Dump Use Application. Access cards are valid from January 1 through December 31 of each calendar year and can be reactivated by paying the annual fee. Card purchases are not pro-rated. A $10 fee will be charged to replace lost access cards.
Access cards can be purchased at Westminster City Hall. City Hall is open Monday through Friday, 8 am to 5 pm. Cash, checks, and credit cards (VISA, MasterCard, and American Express) are accepted. Please bring a copy of your water bill and driver's license for proof of residency.
The City's RV Dump Station facility is located at the Big Dry Creek Wastewater Treatment Facility, 13150 Huron Street Please look for signs marking the entrance to the facility. The station is open every day from 7 am to 6 pm.
Fill out the dump use application form (PDF).
Materials Allowed
The discharge of wastewater from the kitchens and personal sanitary conveniences of recreational vehicles is allowed. The discharge of any other wastes, chemicals or substances is prohibited. The use of normal sanitizing and deodorizing chemicals is allowed.
Please remember that the discharge of any other chemicals, wastes or trash can harm the wastewater treatment facility. Failure to comply with these Guidelines or Westminster Municipal Code, Title 8, Chapter 10, is subject to administrative and judicial enforcement including, fines of up to $1,000 and/or imprisonment of up to one year. Prohibited discharges are also subject to enforcement under state and federal law.
Closed-circuit television has been installed to monitor the station. Access cards will be deactivated if it is determined that the facility has been misused.
To report the dumping of unauthorized wastes, please call 303-452-8010 or use the call box located at each station.
- What is this failure notice?
-
A failure notice is a notification given to the property owner or operator of a commercial kitchen or establishment that their grease trap or interceptor has failed to properly capture and retain FOGG. The notice typically includes information about the level of failure and the required corrective actions to bring the device back into compliance with local regulations. It is typically the responsibility of the property owner or operator to ensure that their FOGG retention device is properly maintained and cleaned to prevent blockages and other issues in the local sewer system.
- My pumper says I already pumped - why am I getting a failure notice?
-
If you received a failure notice for your FOGG retention device even though you recently had it pumped, there are a few possible explanations:
- Timing: The inspection may have occurred shortly before the last pumping. If you believe this to be the case, please schedule with the inspector using this link to confirm the results.
- Inadequate pumping: Your FOGG retention device may not have been pumped adequately during the last service, and some grease may have been left behind in the device. It is important to make sure that the pumper you hire is experienced and certified to clean and pump your specific type of FOGG retention device.
- Mechanical issue: Your FOGG retention device may have a mechanical issue, such as a clogged inlet or outlet pipe, which can prevent the device from working properly even after pumping. In this case, you should contact a licensed plumber to inspect and repair the device.
It is important to address any failure notices promptly, as repeated failures can lead to sewer backups and fines.
You should keep track of the maintenance schedule for your grease interceptor, as regular cleanings are necessary to ensure that it is working effectively. Your pumper should provide you with documentation of the cleaning and maintenance they perform, including the date and time of the service, the volume of material removed, and any other observations or recommendations.
- Where is my grease insterceptor located?
-
The location of a grease interceptor can vary depending on the specific building and plumbing layout. Generally, a grease interceptor is located outside of a building, underground, and near the kitchen or food preparation area. The exact location can vary based on local codes and regulations. The City of Westminster does not allow the use of internal grease interceptors unless prior approval is obtained.
If you are unsure if your building has a grease interceptor and where it might be located, you can contact your local public works.
- Can I install an internal grease interceptor?
-
It is common for local codes and regulations to require the installation of external grease interceptors for commercial kitchens, as it is easier to maintain and monitor their effectiveness. Internal grease interceptors, such as hydro-mechanical grease interceptors (HGI), are sometimes allowed but require prior approval from the local government. If you are unsure about the type and location of your grease interceptor, you should contact the City of Westminster's Wastewater Division for further information.
- I'm noticing a weird smell. It is my grease interceptor?
-
It's possible that an odor issue could be related to a grease interceptor. Grease interceptors can produce unpleasant odors if they are not properly maintained or if they are damaged. Some common causes of odor issues with grease interceptors include:
- Buildup of FOGG (fats, oils, grease, and food solids) in the interceptor, which can lead to decomposition and foul odors.
- Blockages in the interceptor or the sewer line leading to the interceptor, which can cause backups and odors.
- Cracks or damage to the interceptor, which can allow odors to escape.
If you are experiencing odor issues and suspect that your grease interceptor may be the cause, it's important to have it inspected and serviced by a professional. Regular maintenance and cleaning of your grease interceptor can help prevent odor issues and keep your wastewater system functioning properly.
- What are best management practices for a FOGG producing business?
-
Best Management Practices (BMPs) for a FOGG (Fats, Oils, Grit and Grease) program are guidelines and practices that help businesses effectively manage and prevent the accumulation of FOGG in their wastewater systems. Here are some common BMPs for a FOGG program:
- Employee Training: Provide comprehensive training for all employees on the proper handling and disposal of FOGG. Educate them about the impacts of FOGG on the wastewater system and the importance of following program requirements.
- Proper Grease Disposal: Establish clear procedures for the disposal of FOGG waste generated during food preparation and cleaning processes. Use designated containers or receptacles to collect and store FOGG waste for proper disposal, such as recycling or rendering services.
- Grease Interceptors: Install and maintain properly sized and functioning grease traps or interceptors in accordance with local regulations. Regularly clean and maintain these devices to ensure efficient FOGG removal and prevent blockages or overflows.
- Regular Inspections: Conduct regular inspections of grease traps/interceptors to ensure they are in good working condition. Inspect for any signs of damage, blockages, or excessive buildup of FOGG, and address issues promptly.
- Monitoring and Record-keeping: Keep detailed records of grease interceptor maintenance, cleaning schedules, and inspections. This helps demonstrate compliance with program requirements and allows for effective monitoring of FOGG management practices.
- Proper Plumbing Maintenance: Regularly inspect and maintain plumbing systems, including drain lines, to prevent FOGG buildup. Address any plumbing issues or leaks promptly to prevent FOGG from entering the wastewater system.
- Grease Recycling Programs: Explore options for recycling or reusing collected FOGG or yellow grease, such as partnering with local rendering companies or biodiesel producers. Properly disposing of FOGG waste reduces its environmental impact.
- Who do I call when there is a sewage backup on my property?
-
Property owners are responsible for maintaining the sewer lateral line that runs from their property to the point of connection with the City's main sewer line. If there is a backup in the sewer lateral line on your property, you should contact a licensed plumber to assess the situation and perform any necessary repairs.
If the backup is determined to be in the City's main sewer line, you should contact Westminster Wastewater Collections at 303-658-2500 to report the issue. They will send a crew to investigate and address the problem if it is on the City's side of the line.
- I see a big truck or white van with hoses in the manhole around my neighborhood. What are they doing?
-
You’ve just spotted one of the City’s vacuum trucks! Westminster regularly maintains over 400 miles of sewer pipe. Crews are often out inspecting the lines to make sure sewer water is continuing to flow away from your home. Regular maintenance helps avoid costly blockages. The vacuum truck is a vacuum and pressure washer that goes in and clears debris, grease, and roots from the line. Our closed-circuit television (CCTV) inspection vans use cameras mounted on remote control vehicles to go through the pipe and look for structural and maintenance defects. Our crews use the data collected from the CCTV inspection to determine the best approach for maintaining or repairing every section of sewer pipe.
- Why do I smell a strong sewer odor coming from my basement or a specific room?
-
A strong sewer odor coming from your basement or a specific room could indicate a problem with your plumbing or sewer system. Some possible causes of the odor include:
- A dry P-trap, which allows sewer gas to enter your home
- A damaged sewer pipe
- A blocked or damaged sewer vent pipe.
If you smell sewer gas in your home, it's important to address the issue promptly for health and safety reasons. You should contact a licensed plumber to inspect your plumbing system and identify the source of the odor. They can recommend the best course of action to resolve the problem, which may involve repairs or replacement of damaged pipes or fixtures, or installation of a new sewer vent pipe.
- Are flushable wipes flushable?
-
Despite the name, flushable products do not disintegrate in the sewer system like toilet paper. Flushable wipes clogs pipes and could result in expensive repairs for property owners. Other items to avoid flushing include feminine hygiene products, cotton swabs, dental floss, paper towels, diapers, and medications. Only toilet paper should be flushed.
Wastewater resources
Have Questions?
If you have questions about Wastewater Collections or need to report an issue, please call 303-658-2500. You can also submit a service request through Access Westminster.
To report an issue with your sewer system or have further questions, you can call Wastewater Collections at 303-658-2500. They will be able to assist you and send a crew member out to assess the situation if necessary. You can also submit a service request through Access Westminster, the city's online service portal. This is for non-emergency questions only. Simply go to the website, create an account, and submit a request for the issue you're experiencing.