Loose or Missing Manhole Covers
We are responsible for sanitary sewers and the City of DeKalb Public Works - Street Department is responsible for street sewers. Both of them have manhole covers that at times become loose.
- Call us at 815 758-3513
- Call the Street Department at 815 748-2040
if you know which is which. Otherwise, call either of us and we'll work together to get the problem corrected.
No Joke
Although it may seem like fun, opening manhole covers is dangerous business. It creates a hazard for pedestrians and an attractive nuisance for small children and pets.
It is unsafe for anyone not properly equipped, trained and monitored to enter any manhole. Accumulations of gases can cause asphyxiation in an instant. There is no warning.Opening Manhole Covers is Prohibited
If you find an open manhole cover, report it immediately so that we can barricade the potentially dangerous area.
In Case of Street Flooding
Never open sewers to let water escape a flooded street.
If you open a sanitary sewer, you run a great risk of causing a sewage backup in your own and your neighbor's homes or businesses.
Call the City of DeKalb Street Department at 815 748-2040 about street or ground water flooding.
Unauthorized Access
Authorized access is limited to:
- NIU employees (on campus)
- City of DeKalb Street and Water Department personnel
- DeKalb Sanitary District personnel
Call the DeKalb Sanitary District at 815 758-3513 if you see any unauthorized persons accessing manholes.
Illegal Dumping