Does Catch Basin Cleaning Have an Effect on CSO Events?

11/15/25

“Does catch basin cleaning have an effect on CSO events?”

Does Catch Basin Cleaning Have an Effect on CSO Events? The main benefit cleaning catch basins provides is removing debris/sediment that can get caught in sewer pipes and equipment, increasing the area for stormwater flow, and strengthening capacity against CSO events.  However, adopting a catch basin and keeping it clear may not reduce CSO impact if it’s in a CSS area. In fact, it may lead to a larger CSO event if there since more water will enter the sewerage system. 

Catch basin maintenance is more important for flood control and long-term care of CSS infrastructure rather than CSO reduction. According to this report from Atlanta, infrastructure operators should identify areas with basins that generate high amounts, and develop a schedule to clean those areas on a more frequent basis.  

Image credit: https://graysonseweranddrain.com/

• Engineering
• Urban Systems