Wastewater

Overview

The City of Owatonna provides wastewater treatment that results in high-quality return flows to the river. The wastewater collection within the city is accomplished through approximately 200 miles of collection lines with some lines dating back to the early 1900s. The collection system functions primarily by gravity flow; however, lift stations are utilized at some points along the system.

Wastewater Treatment Facility

History

The City of Owatonna’s treatment plant was built in 1987. The average daily flow through the wastewater system is approximately 3.5 to 4.0 MGD with the maximum peak daily flow of 10 MGD.

Sanitary Sewer Ownership

As a property owner, you own your sewer service from the building to the City sewer main. The City owns and maintains the sewer main, which is generally located in the middle of the street. The City cleans and inspects the main lines according to the Owatonna Sanitary Sewer Maintenance Policy. Maintenance crews use a high-pressure jet of water to clean the walls of the sewer main and push material and debris downstream where it can be removed at a manhole.

Things to Remember

  • Call Gopher One at 800-252-1166 to locate utilities prior to digging.
  • Call the Wastewater Treatment Facility at 507-444-2452 whenever your private contractor cleans your service line. This helps prevent roots and debris from getting pushed out of your private service line to the city mainline and cause a backup.
  • Permits are required when digging up service lines.