Frequently Asked Questions

This routine, preventative maintenance test will help identify leaks, defects and stormwater inflows in the sewer system. It is one of the most cost-effective and efficient ways to make sure our wastewater collection system is working properly.

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No. No one needs to be home during smoke testing.

Testing will be performed beginning Monday, February 9, 2026 through Friday, February 27, 2026.

Yes. The process is safe. The smoke used is non-toxic, non-staining, and odorless. A person, animal, or plant that comes in contact with testing material will not be in danger.

Should smoke enter your home or business, it will come from a plumbing fixture (toilets, sinks, tubs, showers, etc.). The smoke takes about five to ten minutes to dissipate.

During testing, smoke should not enter a home. However, if it does, this means the homeowner may have a potential plumbing problem on their property. The City recommends the homeowner calls a plumber at their convenience. Repairs made by the City will only occur in the public right-of-way.

If smoke does enter the building during testing, open windows and doors to increase ventilation. Note the location of the emission, exit the building and inform the testing crews. Smoke from the testing process should dissipate within a few minutes.

If you are unsure that the smoke is related to testing, please call 911.

Yes. It is a Miami-Dade County Environmental Resources Management (DERM) requirement to have this test performed for every review cycle (typically every 10 years).

Smoke testing is cost-effective and efficient when trying to identify potential concerns in our sewer systems. The City is required to submit an SSES evaluation (Smoke Testing) on or before November 12, 2026 of the entire gravity system, as required by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) and the Miami-Dade County Department of Regulatory and Economic Resources (RER).

If the defect is found on private property, it is the obligation of the homeowner. If the defect is found in the Public Right of Way, the defect will be addressed by the City.