Storm Water Drainage

Charleston Water System’s sewer system collects wastewater only—not storm water, which is handled by a separate system operated by the City of Charleston Department of Public Service. However, Charleston Water System does act as a billing agent for collection of the City’s storm water fee; this fee appears on Charleston Water System bills but is not determined by Charleston Water System and all revenue is turned over to the City.

In fact, Charleston Water System regularly smoke tests the wastewater collection system to keep groundwater and storm water out of the sewer system. Water that enters the system through cracked pipes, damaged manholes, improper storm drainage connections, etc. is called infiltration and inflow, or I&I. I&I increases treatment costs and consumes hydraulic capacity in sewer mains and pump stations, and can cause sewer overflows during periods of heavy rain.

If you have a storm drainage concern, please contact the City of Charleston Public Service Department.