What constitutes a spill? A spill is a discharge or deposit of a pollutant that is not in the ordinary course of events or is abnormal in quality and/or quantity. Why should I report a spill? A spill to the sanitary or combined sewer system will be carried to one of the City’s wastewater treatment plants. An upset to the biological balance at the plant could affect treatment capabilities. A spill to a catch basin (chambers with square metal grates along the sides of our roads) could enter the storm sewer system and carry pollutants to our streams, creeks and lakes. A person who has ownership of a spill is required under the Sewer Use By-law to report the issue to the City. It is also a requirement under provincial legislation to notify the Ministry of the Environment – Spills Action Centre of spills. Who do I report a spill to? Regulatory Services staff respond to spills to the City’s sewer system. The City of Hamilton’s Spill Reporting Line is 905-540-5188. City staff are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to take your call. The Ministry of the Environment – Spills Action Centre is also available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to take your call. The number is 1-800-268-6060.
Please review our brochure "Spills to the Sewer" for more information on spill reporting.
Spills to the Sewer Brochure Brochure - printer friendly