Show All Answers

1. How will I know if there is a problem with my water?

If the amount of a contaminant exceeds a predetermined safe level in your drinking water, the City of Livonia Department of Public Works will notify the public via newspapers, radio, TV, and other means as soon as possible with instructions and appropriate steps to take.

2. Is filtered water safer than tap water to drink?

Some people use home water filters to improve the taste, smell or appearance of their tap water, but it does not necessarily make the water safer or healthier to drink. Additionally, all home treatment devices require regular maintenance. If the maintenance is not performed properly, water quality problems may result.

3. Why is my tap water rusty or reddish and what do I do about it?

When the water in the lines is agitated (for example from a large water main flush, road work, or hydrant use) this can stir up sediment (primarily iron) from the bottom of the water lines. In the course of normal maintenance, the hydrant flushing and water gate exercising can stir up this sediment.

If your tap water does appear reddish or rusty in color, it is recommended not to use your water for one hour, and then run the cold water at the lowest point in the house for several minutes. If water is still not clear, wait for another half hour then run the water for several minutes again. Repeat waiting for a half hour then run water for several minutes until water runs clear.

The water is still potable but the discoloration may affect the washing of clothes.

4. Why is my water cloudy?

The cloudy water is caused by tiny air bubbles in the water similar to the gas bubbles in carbonated soft drinks. After a while, the bubbles rise to the top and are gone. This not a problem of purity or quality and may be safely consumed.

5. Is bottle water safer than tap water to drink?

City delivered tap water must meet all federal and state drinking water standards and is routinely monitored. Studies have shown that microbes may grow in the bottle while on grocers’ shelves. Bottled water is valuable in emergencies or if you want water with a different taste, but it costs up to 1,000 times more than tap water.

6. What do I do if my sewer drain is backing up?

Contact Public Service at (734) 466-2650 during regular business hours or call Livonia Police non-emergency after hours at (734) 466-2470.

See our Sewer Backups page.

7. What components of my water delivery is the city responsible for maintaining and repairing?

The City is responsible for maintaining the water main trunk, the stop box (which is the on/off control at the property line), and the actual meter. All other hardware, connections, and costs to other items are the sole responsibility of the home owner. These items include, but are not limited to the service line and valves both before and after the meter.

8. What components of my sewer disposal system is the city responsible for maintaining and repairing?

The City is responsible for maintaining the main sanitary line. The individual sewer lead as well as the connection to the main line are the sole responsibility of the home owner.

9. What is a water quality report, and how do I get one?

The water quality report gives information about where Livonia water comes from, how it is treated and what you can expect. It also talks about the Water and Sewer Board, their meetings and how you can attend.

View the water quality report (PDF) online or obtain a copy from  the water billing department located at:
City Hall, 2nd Floor
33000 Civic Center Drive
Livonia, MI 48154