Which body of water is typically not allowed to directly connect to a sewer system?

Groundwater is typically not allowed to connect directly to a sewer system because it can lead to contamination of the water supply and create unmanageable influxes of water in the sewer infrastructure. Groundwater usually originates from natural sources deep below the Earth’s surface and is often used for drinking water; therefore, any contamination can be harmful to public health.

Connecting groundwater to a sewer system can overwhelm the system, especially during heavy rains or floods, leading to potential backups and overflows. Regulations often dictate that groundwater should be managed separately to prevent pollution and ensure sustainable water resources.

In contrast, rainwater, stormwater, and surface water can be routed to systems designed to handle excess water flow, though usually with specific measures to mitigate pollution and manage runoff effectively.