The City of West Palm Beach will be smoke testing its sewers on the 400 to 500 block of Franklin Road from Monday, March 13, to Friday, March 31, 2023, between 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. This test is performed periodically to locate sources of sewer odors and leaks, and pinpoint potential breaks in sewer lines.

On the outside of your or your neighbor’s home, you may notice smoke coming from sewer vents, gutters, downspouts, and along sewer lines. The type of smoke is harmless, white to yellowish-white in color, and may have a slight odor. It is harmless to humans, plants, and animals. If the smoke enters your home, you should immediately ventilate the area. 

Should smoke (or its odors) exit from the plumbing or fixtures, it is an indication that potentially dangerous gases and unpleasant odors from cracked or broken wastewater lines may be entering the home. This should not occur if the plumbing is in good working condition. Residents can minimize the chances of this happening by running enough water into the sinks, tubs, showers, and floor drains to fill the sewer trap with water.

If you see smoke or smell a foul odor, residents should identify the location and seek professional plumbing assistance to correct the problem. Broken or cracked pipes on private property are the property owner’s responsibility. The City maintains the collection system from the private property line to the wastewater plant.

Should you detect smoke in your home and are uncertain of the cause, please contact the City of West Palm Beach Utilities department at (561)-822-2170 or Dispatch at 561-822-2210 (TTY: 800-955-8771).