Western Springs

During 2015, Western Springs experienced forty-nine water main breaks throughout various locations in the Village. This represents a significant improvement from 71 breaks in 2014 and 111 in 2013. In February 2016, the Village published its second annual Municipal Water Infrastructure Report on the Village website.

We encourage residents to review this comprehensive report, which provides detailed information about the Village's water infrastructure, including unaccounted water data and locations of water main breaks from the previous year. The Water Infrastructure Report also highlights major capital projects completed in 2015, including:

• Reconditioning of well #3
• Lining of the transmission pipe for well #1 beneath the BNSF railroad tracks
• Ice Pigging (cleaning) of distribution mains in the Ridgewood neighborhood

The report also outlines upcoming capital projects such as interior and exterior painting of the Village's standpipe and elevated storage facilities, construction of a new deep well, and water main lining and replacement programs. For complete details on these initiatives, please visit the Village website at http://www.wsprings.com to view the entire "2015 Water Facilities Report".

Where should I discharge my Sump Pump?

You may discharge anywhere on your property, provided the initial point where water contacts the ground is at least 20 feet from the street or curb to prevent ice formation during cold weather. Underground connections to County storm drains require permits from the County Road Commission through the Development Services Department at (248) 451-4876, located in Township Hall.

Is the Township responsible for repairing water and sewer lines between the street and my home?

No. Our responsibility ends at the utility easement boundary. The Water Department manages service lines from the main to the curb stop at the property line. For sanitary sewer connections, property owners are responsible for the entire line from their home to the Township's main, including the connection point.

Can I use plastic pipe for my water service line?

The Township typically installs K-type copper lines from the water main to the shut-off valve near your property line. While copper is recommended for private property installation, alternative approved materials may be used with approval from the Township Plumbing Inspector and/or Water Department. The Water Department maintains responsibility for pipes within the road right-of-way, while the Plumbing Inspector oversees installations on private property (except for water meters, which remain under Water Department jurisdiction).

Who do I call about blocked Storm Drains or snow plowing?

Contact Oakland County Citizen's Service Bureau for Roads and Drains at (248) 858-4804.

What's the difference between Sanitary Sewers and Storm Drains?

Sanitary sewers transport household waste to the GLWA Wastewater Treatment Plant. Storm drains collect rainwater and direct it to natural waterways like wetlands and lakes. Township sanitary sewers have solid round manhole covers, while storm drains typically feature open-grated metal grates. Western Springs maintains separated systems—they are NOT combined. The Township maintains sanitary sewers while Oakland County handles storm drains in road right-of-ways.

Why is my water cloudy or milky?

This typically indicates trapped air in the lines, which can occur when valves or fire hydrants are operated during maintenance work or firefighting. The condition may cause plumbing vibrations or banging. Running cold water from an upper-floor tap usually resolves the issue. If it persists, contact the Water Department during business hours or call Public Safety Dispatch at (248) 975-9200.

Why is my water discolored (brown/reddish)?

Water main repairs or hydrant flushing can disturb settled minerals in the pipes. Boiling is not necessary unless specifically advised by the Water Department. Run cold water until it clears, and avoid using hot water initially to prevent drawing discolored water into your water heater. Any boil advisories would be announced through radio, TV and newspapers. Water is regularly tested for bacteria in accordance with Safe Drinking Water Act standards.

Can I pay my water bill online or set up automatic payments?

Yes. Online payments are available through the township's secure banking software. Visit our Make a Payment page for enrollment information regarding Automatic Water & Sewer Bill Payment Programs.

Do I need insurance for potential water and sewer line repairs?

Water service lines are partially the township's responsibility (from main to property line) and partially the homeowner's responsibility (on private property). Sewer service lines are entirely the property owner's responsibility from home to main. The Township does not endorse any insurance providers and encourages homeowners to research thoroughly before purchasing coverage. Consider factors like home age, tree root intrusion risks, and whether your existing homeowner's policy might already provide coverage.

Who is responsible for Sanitary Sewer Back-Ups?

Michigan Public Act 222 governs liability for sewer backups. Claimants must demonstrate that: 1) the township's system had a defect, 2) the township knew about the defect, 3) the defect wasn't fixed within reasonable time, and 4) damage resulted from this defect. Claims must be filed with the Township Clerk within 45 days of occurrence. The township's responsibility covers only the mainline, not private service lines or plumbing.