When is it permissible to connect a storm drain to a sanitary sewer?

When is it permissible to connect a storm drain to a sanitary sewer?

• A. When the drained area is not greater than 50 square feet
• B. When the sanitary sewer is twice the required size
• C. When the storm sewer is not available
• D. When the storm drain is properly sealed

Answer: (A)

Connecting a storm drain to a sanitary sewer is a practice that is generally discouraged due to the risk of contamination and overloading the sanitary system. However, in certain conditions, it may be permissible. Specifically, when the drained area is not greater than 50 square feet, this allows for exceptions in cases where it's impractical to install a separate storm drain system. This limitation helps ensure that only a minimal amount of runoff is directed into the sanitary sewer, thereby reducing the potential for issues related to capacity and treatment of stormwater. The design of plumbing systems aims to keep stormwater and wastewater separate to prevent the risk of sewer overflows and maintain system integrity. Thus, this provision recognizes practical constraints while still adhering to the overall goal of minimizing the impact on the sanitary system. Other options do not align with the fundamental plumbing principles governing the separation of these systems or offer conditions that could lead to larger systemic problems.

Connecting a storm drain to a sanitary sewer is a practice that is generally discouraged due to the risk of contamination and overloading the sanitary system. However, in certain conditions, it may be permissible. Specifically, when the drained area is not greater than 50 square feet, this allows for exceptions in cases where it's impractical to install a separate storm drain system. This limitation helps ensure that only a minimal amount of runoff is directed into the sanitary sewer, thereby reducing the potential for issues related to capacity and treatment of stormwater.

The design of plumbing systems aims to keep stormwater and wastewater separate to prevent the risk of sewer overflows and maintain system integrity. Thus, this provision recognizes practical constraints while still adhering to the overall goal of minimizing the impact on the sanitary system. Other options do not align with the fundamental plumbing principles governing the separation of these systems or offer conditions that could lead to larger systemic problems.