It has been determined that the opening of sewer cleanout plugs for the purpose of draining rainwater from yards is a major factor in the town’s inflow and infiltration (I&I) problem. Excessive I&I creates plant inefficiencies, causes cost over-runs and is a major factor in violation notices, fines and building moratoriums from the NC Department of Environmental and Natural Resources.
(A) Accordingly, it shall be illegal to open sewer cleanout plugs in order to drain rainwater from a yard.
(B) Violations of this section shall be fined as follows:
(1) 1st offense, $50 fine waivable at the option of the Town Administrator.
(2) 2nd offense, cleanout plug shall be sealed for six months.
(3) All offenses after unsealing, $500 fine per offense.
(C) Fines shall be appended to and become an integral part of the utility bill; nonpayment of said fine shall constitute nonpayment of the utility bill.
(Ord. 14-114, passed 3-10-2014)