West Fargo residents must obtain variance to discharge sump pumps indoors during winter

The City of West Fargo would like to remind residents who plan to discharge their sump pump water indoors into the sanitary sewer system this winter that they must obtain a seasonal variance. If residents obtain the $50 variance, they are able to discharge their sump pump water indoors into the sewer system between Nov. 1, 2019, and April 1, 2020. This variance must be obtained annually to discharge sump pumps indoors.

Residents can take out a variance at any time during the winter months for a one-time fee of $50, should they need it. The fee is not pro-rated based on when it is applied for and must be purchased annually. Those who do not purchase a variance must continue to discharge their sump pump outside, but must not discharge onto sidewalks or streets as to avoid causing safety hazards such as ice dams.

Residents can choose to pay online or have the fee added to their monthly utility bill. To purchase a variance, fill out the Sump Pump Variance Form at https://lf.westfargond.gov/Forms/Sump-Pump.

After April 1 each year, all sump pumps must discharge outside.