Featured Services and Programs

MeterSave
Learn more about changes to the MeterSave program.

Water Quality Reports and Results
Potable Water Quality Reports.

Sewer Regulations
Sewer detention regulations.

Pay Water Sewer Bills Online
Connect and pay you city utility bills on-line

Conservation Tips
Useful tips and suggestions about how to manage storm water around your home.

Education
Items for students and teachers

Chicago Water Quality
The easiest way to promote water quality at home is to flush your water system every day

Lead Service Line Replacement
Learn more about Chicago's Lead Service Line Replacement Programs
Durkin Park Infrastructure Improvement
Read more...
Avoid water in your basement
As our climate changes, we are seeing more intense storms than we have in past years. Our sewer system can get overwhelmed by these huge downpours and more of us are finding water in our basements. In Chicago, the sewer system also handles rainwater removal. The Chicago Department of Water Management is working closely with the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District to increase the capacity of our drainage systems.
There are some steps homeowners can take to help prevent water from backing up into their basements:
- Disconnect downspout connections from the sewer system.
- Make sure to direct downspout flow to areas with permeable surfaces that can properly absorb the stormwater or use rain barrels to collect the water directly from the downspouts.
- Avoid running a dishwasher or washing machine during storms.
- Clear the area around downspouts to allow water to flow freely away from your foundation.
- Clear drains and sewers of debris and snow to allow drainage for melting.
- Do not dump fats/oils/greases in private drains or public catch basins.
- For better resistance to flooding in the future, it can be helpful to install rain gardens, green landscaping, or stormwater trees in your yard to help retain rainwater.
Flushing Your Water System
Now that your old water main has been replaced and your water service has been connected to the new water main, it is important to flush your plumbing of any sediment, rust or metals, including any lead to maintain water quality.
Consumer Lead Testing Results and Requests
Construction Projects
Neighborhood construction projects involving water and sewer main replacements.
Department Main Office
Water Management
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Phone: 312.744.4420
Toll Free:
Fax: 312.744.7119 -
1000 East Ohio Street
Chicago, IL 60611
Get Directions - Leadership
Andrea R.H. Cheng, Ph.D., P.E.
Commissioner of Water Management