On September 30, the Norfolk Police Division (NPD) posted a short video that captures a person disposing of oil, grease and fats by pouring them directly into a city sewer drain. The footage, released on the department’s official channels, serves as a public reminder that this practice is prohibited under the City of Norfolk’s code.
Why the prohibition matters
City officials explain that liquids such as cooking oil, animal fat and other greasy substances can solidify in the underground pipes, leading to blockages that strain the municipal wastewater treatment process. When the system becomes clogged, it not only increases maintenance costs for taxpayers but also poses a risk of sewage overflows that could affect homes and businesses.
City Code enforcement
The Norfolk municipal code explicitly forbids the discharge of oil, grease or fats into any public sewer or drainage system. Violators may be subject to fines and other penalties, as the city seeks to preserve the integrity of its infrastructure. NPD spokesperson Chief Michael Jensen said, “We encourage all residents and businesses to dispose of these substances responsibly, using proper collection containers or recycling programs where available.”
How to dispose of grease safely
Residents can follow a few simple steps to keep the sewer system running smoothly:
- Allow cooking oil or grease to cool, then pour it into a sealable container such as a used milk jug.
- Seal the container and place it in the regular trash.
- For larger quantities, consider taking the material to a local recycling drop‑off that accepts used cooking oil.
- Avoid pouring any oily liquids down the sink, garbage disposal, or directly into storm drains.
Community response
Local business owners and homeowners have expressed support for the police department’s outreach. Sarah Miller, owner of Miller’s Diner, noted, “We’ve seen clogged drains cause costly repairs in the past. It’s good that the city is reminding everyone how easy it is to prevent that problem.”
Neighbors who saw the video on social media shared it with comments urging friends and family to follow the proper disposal guidelines. The community’s cooperative attitude aligns with Norfolk’s broader commitment to responsible stewardship of public resources.
Next steps for the department
The Norfolk Police Division plans to continue its educational campaign, partnering with the city’s Public Works Department to distribute informational flyers and host occasional workshops on proper waste disposal. By combining enforcement with outreach, the city hopes to reduce future violations and protect the wastewater system for years to come.
For more information on the city’s code regarding waste disposal, residents can visit the official Norfolk website or contact the Police Division directly.
Original reporting: KLKN-TV – News, Weather and Sports for Lincoln, Nebraska — read the source article.
