Philipsburg, Sint Maarten – The Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (VROMI), reminds the public that discharging or pumping of wastewater into government drainage systems or onto public roads is strictly prohibited.
Property owners, businesses, contractors, and other parties are urged to ensure that wastewater is properly contained, transported, and disposed of through approved methods and facilities.
The improper discharge of wastewater into government drains or onto public roads can create serious environmental and public health concerns, contribute to unpleasant odors and unsanitary conditions, and negatively impact the island’s drainage infrastructure and surrounding environment. Furthermore, residents and establishments participating on the matter are in violation of the National Wastewater Ordinance and the Algemeen Politie Keur (APK).
The Ministry will be monitoring and taking enforcement action against individuals or entities found engaging in unauthorized wastewater discharge.
Please be advised that where wastewater discharge pipes or connections are found to be illegally connected to or used for the discharge of wastewater into government drains or onto public roads, enforcement measures will be taken, including the blocking of such unauthorized pipes/connections.
The Ministry calls on the public to cooperate and to ensure that all wastewater is connected to sealed holding tanks and disposed of responsibly and in accordance with applicable requirements.
Residents who observe suspected illegal wastewater discharge are encouraged to report the matter to the Ministry of VROMI and Justice.
Help keep Sint Maarten clean, safe, and environmentally responsible.
