The City of Owosso Department of Public Works will be conducting smoke testing of sanitary sewers beginning on January 26, 2026, and continuing through the month of February. This is a non-toxic smoke that is pumped through the lines to show possible leaks.
The City has contracted with Fishbeck to complete this work. During the test, smoke will be blown through the sanitary sewer in several locations. The smoke may emerge from the ground surface and through roof vents of buildings. The smoke is non-toxic, odorless, will not create stains, and dissipates quickly. Engineering and City staff will be walking the area during the testing to monitor the system. Staff will be wearing attire to identify them as an employee of Fishbeck or the City.
The map below shows the project areas. Work will be done in stages. Notifications will be hung at your property several days before the evaluation is planned for your area. If you receive a door hanger, please ensure that all sinks, floor drains, and other drain outlets in your home, including basement floor drains, are filled by running water at each fixture. This will create a water seal between your home and the City’s sanitary sewer by filling the existing drain trap.
Smoke will only enter your home if there is a dry trap or if a waste pipe in your property is not equipped with a trap. Basement floor drains may not be equipped with a trap if your property has foundation/footing drains that are directly connected to your sanitary sewer lateral. Do not be alarmed if smoke enters your home. As noted, the smoke is non-toxic, odorless, and stainless. The smoke should dissipate quickly, and the process can be sped up by opening windows and doors to ventilate the area.
For more information, call 989-725-0554