WastewaterConsent Decree

City of Houston

FACT SHEET

BACKGROUNDIn the late 1980s, the Federal government, through the Clean Water Act, began a nationwide effort to help end wastewater system spills called sanitary sewer overflows (SSOs).

For almost ten years, the City has worked with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to draft a plan to improve Houston's wastewater system. In July 2019, the City of Houston, EPA and Texas agreed to a consent decree.

Improvements over the next 15 years will reduce sanitary sewer overflows, ensure continued protection to the environment and human health, and create a strong foundation for Houston to thrive.

SANITARY SEWER OVERFLOWSSSOs are most often caused by fats, oils and grease poured down drains which build up in wastewater lines and cause blockages and overflows. Other causes include: roots, heavy rainfall, rainwater runoff, and illegal connections.

INVESTING IN HOUSTONUpgrade & Improve SystemThe consent decree will upgrade and improve Houston’s wastewater system. Houston’s wastewater system is one of the largest and most complex in the nation with over 6,000 miles of wastewater lines, 390 lift stations, and 39 wastewater treatment plants.

Fix Aging InfrastructureOver the next 15 years, the City will fix aging wastewater lines and upgrade infrastructure. This will help Houston keep pace with the growing population and provide better service to the community.

IMPROVEMENTSEarly Action ProjectsEarly action projects will immediately begin to improve system performance.

Capacity Assessment & RemediationNine (9) areas with a history of recurring high-volume SSOs during rainfall events will be assessed & repaired.

Capacity, Management, Operations & MaintenanceA program that includes fats, oils and grease and increased cleaning and inspection will be enhanced.

Pilot Studies at Wet Weather Facilities Studies will test treatment options to address flow during heavy rainfall events at facilities built at the EPA’s request in the 1990s.

WHAT IS A CONSENT DECREE? A consent decree is a legal document filed with the court, and approved by a judge, that formalizes a settlement agreement between the City of Houston, EPA and Texas.

IS HOUSTON THE ONLY CITY WITH A CONSENT DECREE?No, the EPA has taken enforcement against 92% of the largest wastewater systems in the country.

HOW WILL THIS IMPACT WATER & WASTEWATER BILLS?The consent decree was designed for the most cost-effective use of ratepayer dollars. Houston’s wastewater system receives funds collected from ratepayers, not the City’s General Fund.

A 2019 rate study will consider the required improvements under the consent decree and impacts on rates. Water and wastewater rates are expected to remain below the EPA’s affordability threshold of 2% of median household income.

HOW DO I HELP PREVENT SANITARY SEWER OVERFLOWS?Fats, oils and grease never should be poured down the drain or garbage disposal. When fats, oils and grease build up and harden in wastewater lines, it can cause blockages and sanitary sewer overflows. Fats, oils, and grease come from food scraps, cooking oil, butter, pan drippings, salad dressings, and more.

Instead of pouring grease down the drain, pour it into an empty can or container, let it cool and toss it in the trash. Also, wipe pots, pans, and dishes with a dry paper towel before washing them.

Don't flush any type of paper towels, diaper, feminine hygiene product, hair, chewing gum, plastic, or wipes down the toilet. Even flushable wipes only break down into smaller pieces. This gives fats, oils and grease something to cling to and build up more quickly.

HOW DO I REPORT A SANITARY SEWER OVERFLOW?Call 311 (713.837.0311) to report the location. Houston Water will investigate, clean, and report the overflow to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

MORE INFORMATIONwww.publicworks.houstontx.gov/wastewater-CD

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