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Wastewater

Madison Utilities provides reliable wastewater collection and treatment to protect public health and the environment for customers across the City of Madison and portions of Limestone County.

Our Wastewater Services

Every gallon that enters our system must be safely transported and treated before being released back into nature. What you put down your drains or flush down your toilet can have a major impact on your home plumbing, our treatment systems, and the community’s environment.

We all share the responsibility to keep the wastewater system working efficiently. Please follow these guidelines to help prevent costly blockages, backups, and environmental harm.

How Wastewater Treatment Works

All wastewater collected through Madison Utilities’ sewer system flows to the Madison Wastewater Treatment Plant, where it is treated and purified before being released.

The treatment process removes solids, harmful bacteria, and organic materials through biological and chemical processes. Treated water is then disinfected to meet or exceed federal and state environmental standards before being discharged safely into local waterways.

What Not to Flush or Pour

Many household items cause serious problems when flushed or poured down the drain — even when the label says “flushable.” These items can clog household pipes, cause sewer backups, and damage treatment equipment. Even small amounts of these materials can accumulate over time and block pipes or damage pumps.

Never flush or pour:
  • Grease, fats, or cooking oil
  • “Flushable” wipes, baby wipes, or cleaning wipes
  • Paper towels, tissues, or napkins
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Cotton swabs, dental floss, or hair
  • Medications, chemicals, or solvents
  • Paint, paint thinner, or automotive fluids
  • Coffee grounds, food waste, or eggshells

Residential Best Practices for Fat, Oil, and Grease (FOG) Disposal

Homeowners can take simple steps to prevent grease from entering household plumbing and public sewer lines:
  • Pour cooled grease into a disposable container and place it in the trash.
  • Scrape and wipe pots, pans, and dishes before rinsing or washing.
  • Do not use garbage disposals; they increase solids entering the system and can reduce effectiveness of grease control equipment.
  • Use paper towels to absorb grease residue from cookware.
  • Collect used cooking oil in sealed containers and dispose of it properly.
  • Use strainers in sink drains and floor drains to prevent large food particles from entering the sewer lines.
  • Businesses should follow Madison Utilities’ Fat, Oil, and Grease (FOG) Program for required practices and inspections.

These everyday habits protect your plumbing and help prevent system-wide issues.

Protecting Your Plumbing and Our System

Preventing blockages at home helps maintain the entire wastewater system. Simple actions like using drain screens, disposing of waste properly, and never flushing inappropriate items help reduce maintenance costs for everyone.

If you experience a sewer backup or notice an overflow, contact Madison Utilities immediately at 256-772-0253 during business hours or 256-508-8916 after hours. Our crews are available 24/7 to respond to emergencies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is wastewater service available in my area?

To find out if service is available in your area, please contact our office at 256-772-0253 or email your request to custserv@madisonutilities.org.

Who is responsible for the storm water sewer system?

Calls related to storm water should be directed to the City of Madison Public Works Department. Their phone number is 256-772-0000.

Where can I find information on water and wastewater easements?

Please review our easement information document and contact Customer Service at 256-772-0253 or email us at custserv@madisonutilities.org for additional information. 

View or download easement information document.
Who is responsible for the sewer line from my house to the street?

Property owners are responsible for the service line from the home to the point where it connects to the Madison Utilities main. Madison Utilities maintains the public mains and pump stations.

Why is it important to avoid pouring grease down the drain?
Grease hardens as it cools, sticking to the inside of pipes and creating blockages that cause backups and overflows. Always dispose of grease and oils in the trash.
What happens to wastewater after it’s treated?
After treatment and disinfection, clean water is safely returned to local waterways in accordance with Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM) standards.

Contact Madison Utilities Customer Service Team

PHONE

ADDRESS

101 Ray Sanderson Drive
Madison, AL 35758
Get Directions

EMAIL OR ONLINE

HOURS

  • Call Center Hours:

    8:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

  • Lobby Hours:

    8:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

  • Drive Through Hours:

    7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.