MS4 Sewer

Wesleyville Borough maintains two separate sewer systems: one for sanitary sewage and one for stormwater. Stormwater includes rain and runoff that flows into catch basins, enters the stormwater system, or is naturally absorbed into the ground. The stormwater system carries clean water to 4 Mile Creek, which ultimately flows into Lake Erie. For environmental protection, it is essential that sewage and stormwater remain separate.

If you observe any of the following, please contact the Borough Office at 814-899-6704, or after hours contact the Wesleyville Police Department at 814-899-3364 for emergencies:

A. A clogged, blocked, or damaged catch basin.

B. Any discharge entering a basin or flowing from an outfall that does not appear to be clean water, particularly if it has an unusual color, odor, or appearance.

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) oversees the Borough’s compliance with federal and state regulations governing discharges into the watershed. DEP requires municipalities to take specific steps to protect the cleanliness and health of public waterways.

Wesleyville Borough, as an MS4 (Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System) community, must maintain a comprehensive stormwater management program. This includes:

Adopting and enforcing a stormwater ordinance.

Submitting annual reports to DEP, including outfall monitoring data, storm sewer mapping updates, and public education efforts.

Obtaining and maintaining an MS4 permit from DEP for stormwater discharge. The Borough’s five-year permit is available for public review at the Borough Office.

Benefits of an effective stormwater management program include:

Improved fishing conditions

Greater recreational opportunities

Reduced flooding and property damage

Protection of drinking water sources

Enhanced community appearance and environmental quality

As part of these requirements, the Borough updated its stormwater management ordinance (found in Part 10 of the Borough Code). The ordinance can be viewed on the Borough’s website or at the Borough Office. It establishes standards for stormwater plans, system design, and long-term maintenance.

The ordinance also prohibits non-stormwater discharges into the Borough’s storm sewer system or the Waters of the Commonwealth, except for those specifically allowed under state or federal permits. A summary of allowed discharges is available at the Borough Office.

In addition, Wesleyville Borough conducts ongoing MS4 system monitoring. Approximately 20 outfalls are connected to the system; each is inspected annually, and a portion are tested each year so that all outfalls are fully tested on a rotating basis.

Wesleyville Borough is committed to protecting water quality for future generations. While the Borough has implemented ordinances and monitoring programs, every resident and business in Wesleyville plays an important role in preserving the quality of our stormwater and waterways.