FAQs • East Grand Rapids, MI • CivicEngage

A storm drain appears to be backed up, what do I do?: Storm drains are commonly clogged by yard waste debris that should not be placed in the street. Residents can help unclog these drains by using yard tools. Debris removed from drains should be placed in a yard waste container and put out on the regular yard waste collection day. If there is still an issue, call Public Works Operations Monday – Friday between 7:00 AM and 3:30 PM at (616) 940-4870 or submit a request below.

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Public Works - Water/Sewer Systems

1. Something is wrong with my water meter (leaking, loud or not working).: The City owns the water meter itself and will repair or replace it. You will be responsible for the cost if it has been tampered with. Call Public Works Operations Monday - Friday between 7:00 AM and 3:30 PM at (616) 940-4870. If the leak is severe and it is after hours, call the emergency number (616) 949-7010. Water will be shut off until repairs are complete.

2. I need to have the water to my home turned off by the City, what do I do?: If you need to turn water off for internal plumbing work or for any other internal reason, you can turn the water off by turning the valve near your water meter. If you need the water service shut off because your water service line is leaking, please contact Public Works Operations Monday through Friday between 7:00 AM and 3:30 PM at (616) 940-4870. From 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM contact Public Works Administration at (616) 940-4817. Evenings and weekends call the emergency number (616) 949-7010.

3. I've noticed that my water has an odor, what do I do?: Water odor can be caused by a variety of things. If you have internal water system items (filter systems, water softener, etc.), those are common causes and you should contact a licensed plumber to investigate. If you do not have these items, call Public Works Operations Monday - Friday between 7:00 AM and 3:30 PM at (616) 940-4870.

4. How can I obtain a Water Quality Report?: Contact Public Works Administration Monday - Friday between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM at (616) 940-4817 or search the website for "water quality report".

5. The water pressure in my home seems to be low. What can I do?: Water pressure problems can be related to an internal plumbing issue or may be something the City can assist you with. If your neighbors aren't experiencing issues, it is an internal problem. Call a licensed plumber for assistance. If water pressure is impacting other homes adjacent to yours, contact Public Works Operations Monday through Friday between the hours of 7:00 AM and 3:30 PM at (616) 940-4870.

6. My water seems to be discolored, what can I do?: Discolored water can be the result of natural minerals, such as calcium or iron, that accumulate in water pipes. When interrupted by water main flushing or repairs, they can come through your faucets. Flush your system by running cold water at the faucet closest to the incoming water supply for 10 to 20 minutes. If the problem continues, contact Public Works Operations Monday through Friday between 7:00 AM and 3:30 PM at (616) 940-4870.

7. I think I have a water leak. What should I do?: Water leaks from the stop box, located in the right of way, to the home are the homeowner's responsibility. Contact a licensed plumber for repairs. Leaks from the stop box to the main are the City's responsibility. Contact Public Works Operations Monday through Friday between 7:00 AM and 3:30 PM at (616) 940-4870. From 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM contact Public Works Administration at (616) 940-4817. Evenings and weekends call the emergency number (616) 949-7010.

8. Has the water been shut off to this property? (This is a common realtor question.): If you represent the property, check the faucets, then the valve near the water meter.

9. A storm drain appears to be backed up, what do I do?: Storm drains are commonly clogged by yard waste debris that should not be placed in the street. Residents can help unclog these drains by using yard tools. Debris removed from drains should be placed in a yard waste container and put out on the regular yard waste collection day. If there is still an issue, call Public Works Operations Monday – Friday between 7:00 AM and 3:30 PM at (616) 940-4870 or submit a request below.

10. I would like to drain water from my property the street. What do I do?: If there is adequate storm sewer adjacent to your property, you may be able to have a contractor connect to the City's storm sewer. A right of way permit is required. If this option is not available to you, there are other options that can be considered, such as dry well, French drain, rain garden, popup drains, etc. that can be done on your property. You may wish to consult with a landscaper, excavator or an engineering professional to assist you.

11. My sewer is backing up, what do I do?: Immediately contact Public Works Operations Monday - Friday between 7:00 AM and 3:30 PM at (616) 940-4870. Between 3:30 PM and 5:00 PM contact Public Works Administration at (616) 940-4817. Evenings and weekends call the emergency number (616) 949-7010.
City staff will check the city sewer main in the street to make sure there is not a blockage in the City main. If the city main is clear, the blockage is located in the private sewer lateral and you will need to contact a private licensed plumber to clear the blockage. Sewer claims are subject to the City sewer backup policy and state law. A claim form may be requested by contacting the Finance Department at (616) 940-2110.

12. I'm having an issue with my sump pump. What can I do?: Sump pumps and foundation drainage systems are the responsibility of the homeowner. You should contact a licensed plumber for assistance.