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Smoke Testing - Sanitary Sewer System
Smoke Testing and the Sanitary Sewer System
Inflow/Infiltration Reduction Program
Beginning on Monday, February 9, 2026, the City of North Miami will perform sanitary sewer smoke testing. During this time, you may notice smoky areas around the City. While these patches of smoke may seem out of place, they are safe and part of a safety check known as smoke testing.
Program Goals
The City of North Miami Public Works Department performs this testing to identify any defects in the sewer system and protect the environment.
Smoke Testing Need to Know
- Smoke testing personnel will have proper identification and marked vehicles.
- Smoke is non-toxic and non-hazardous and is manufactured specifically for this purpose. It leaves no residue or stains and has no effect on plants or animals.
- Notices and reminders will be given to residents at least 24 to 48 hours prior to beginning work in their specific area. Review the following materials to learn more about the upcoming smoke testing:
- Smoke testing is used to identify sanitary sewer defects and identify corrections to reduce impacts to the sanitary sewer system. Sewer defects on private property may result in notices being sent to those property owners for corrections.
What is smoke testing?
Smoke testing is a common test used to identify sections of the sanitary sewer collection system that may have cracks, leaks or faulty connections that allow rainwater or groundwater to enter the underground pipe network.
What to Expect
While smoke will be visible coming out of manhole covers and vent stacks in roofs, it should not enter homes. To reduce the likelihood of smoke entering a building, the City recommends that you pour 2–3 gallons of water into seldom-used sinks and floor drains, where the smoke could arise due to lack of water pressure. This may be done any time prior to the test.
How the Test Works
The test consists of forcing safe, vegetable-oil-derived smoke into the sewer lines and observing where it escapes to determine the location of leaks and defects. Odorless and safe, the smoke leaves no residuals or stains and has no adverse effect on people, plants or animals.
If Problems are Found
The City may notify you upon completion of the project if there are any problems found on your property. Additional notifications may come from Miami-Dade County Department of Regulatory & Economic Resources.