Public Work of Water in Seoul(Part 3: Sewage Sector Coordination)

Public Work of Water Control in Seoul
(Part 3: Sewage Sector Coordination)

1. Building Coordination

  a. Connection to Public Sewers

During the planning phase of a building, it is reviewed whether the private pipelines are appropriately connected to public sewers. Occasionally, inserting private pipelines into rainwater collectors is prohibited to prevent damage to the collectors (design standards vary according to municipal regulations).
Upon completion, the connection is verified, and for new constructions, after the construction, a recheck is conducted by taking CCTV footage of nearby pipelines to ensure the construction was completed without issues like cement filling or debris disposal into sewage lines.
  b. Sewage Contribution Fee Determination
Paying for What's Used
Determining the sewage contribution fee involves calculating the charges according to the Ministry of Environment regulations, as public sewage systems incur fees. Many building owners are unaware of this fee unless it's substantial, prompting inquiries. (It's quite a scene when owners of 20-story buildings argue over lacking funds.)
  c. Low Impact Development Coordination

Reducing Adverse Effects
The installation of asphalt and pavement blocks often hinders effective drainage during the rainy season, contributing to urban flooding. To mitigate such impacts, low-impact development coordination is undertaken, involving the creation of permeable blocks and infiltration facilities during construction. Additionally, buildings above a certain size are required to install centralized wastewater treatment facilities.

2.Leasing, Sale, Excavation Coordination

Non-Negotiables and Reversals
Approval from the district office is necessary for installing any facility on public roads, with sewage sector coordination being a part of it. For instance, if maintenance of public sewage pipes below a public telephone booth becomes challenging due to the booth's presence, a request for relocation needs to be considered.

3.Miscellaneous Coordination

Unexpected Requests
Sometimes, unusual coordination requests arise, such as sudden reviews by higher authorities regarding specific development sites, or requests for sewage sector coordination during building demolitions. There are also inquiries from architects regarding altering public sewers for development purposes.
Thorough Document Review!
In such cases, thorough scrutiny of prepared documents for any issues or omissions is essential, along with ensuring no disruption to public facilities.