Madison Reporter

The City of Madison Engineering Division has issued a reminder to residents about the proper disposal of fats, oils, and grease (FOG) following a recent sanitary sewer overflow. The incident occurred on December 5, 2024, at 12:30 p.m. on the east side of Madison, specifically in the 5800 block of Milwaukee Street.

City crews responded promptly to the overflow, which was caused by grease buildup in the sewer system. The sanitary sewer manhole overflowed into a ditch located on the north side of Milwaukee Street. Fortunately, minimal sewage spilled into the area and no wastewater reached the storm sewer due to containment efforts using silt sock.

A local resident reported the incident after noticing the overflow. Crews arrived at approximately 1 p.m., and an Engineering Division vactor crew worked to vacuum water from the ditch. By 2 p.m., they had successfully stopped the overflow and cleaned up all visible wastewater.

The primary cause of this incident was identified as high volumes of grease solidifying within the sewer system. After cleaning out the sewer line, city officials were able to correct the problem.

Residents are reminded not to dispose of FOG or other food waste down home drains as these substances can solidify in sewers and lead to backups, particularly during colder months.

Reporting sewer blockages and overflows is required under Wisconsin State Law. This notice complies with regulations set forth by both the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Administrative Code and Madison’s Capacity, Maintenance, Operations & Management (CMOM) Program.