Sanitary Sewer Overflows

Sanitary Sewer Overflows (SSOs) are a release of untreated or partially treated sewage from a municipal sanitary sewer including STEP and Grinder system malfunction, pump station failure, and/ or blockage on a sewer manhole.

How to prevent SSOs:

  • Avoid flushing Fats, Oil, and Grease (FOG) into your home or business drains
  • Avoid flushing wipes, tampons, and any other synthetic material that can clog your system
  • Keep up good cleaning and maintenance of your system

How to deal with SSOs:

  • If you see or smell sewage coming from your STEP & Grinder tank, Please contact the number on your panel, 800-499-9070
  • If you see or smell sewage coming from sewer manholes,  please contact the Gloucester Department of Public Works at 978-325-5600
  • After business hours, please contact the Gloucester Police Department at 978-283-1212

The fastest way to get information on an SSO event in Gloucester is to sign up to receive public advisory notifications by subscribing to “Public Health” alerts here.


SSO Notice