Hydrant Flushing Schedule

The City of St. Charles is flushing hydrants beginning April 1 and continuing through May 3. Please note that hydrant flushing could temporarily cause water discoloration, even for homes outside the particular flushing area. The discoloration is caused by minerals that get stirred up in the water mains. 

Public Works performs hydrant flushing as part of the regular maintenance to the City's water distribution system. Flushing water through the mains helps reduce mineral build-up and ensures the hydrants are ready for emergency use. 

St. Charles is divided into zones for hydrant flushing: Outer zones Northwest, Southwest, Northeast, Southeast and River Valley Inner Zones East and West. Main Street (IL Rt. 64) divides the north/south areas and the Fox River divides the east/west. 

HYDRANT FLUSHING SCHEDULE

River Valley East & West - Monday, April 1 to Friday, April 5
Northwest & Southwest - Monday, April 8 to Friday, April 12
Southeast and Southwest - Monday, April 15 to Friday, April 19
Northeast - Monday, April 22 to Friday, May 3 

Signs announcing hydrant flushing will be posted in affected neighborhoods. Flushing may start as early as 5 a.m. and continue through 4 p.m.

Discolored Water Possible

Please note water is safe to use and consume during hydrant flushing. However, water may temporarily be rusty colored. Consider the following actions during hydrant flushing: 

  • Limit water use, if possible.
  • If water appears discolored, wait until flushing has subsided and then run the cold water tap in your bathtub or utility sink until it runs clear (or in 10 minute increments).
  • Remember rust colored water is safe, but it may stain laundry.  If this happens, keep clothes wet and treat them with stain remover. 

The City offers a stain removal product at no cost to residents at the following facilities: 

  • Public Works located at 1405 S. 7th Avenue
  • City Hall Front Reception Desk located at 2 E. Main Street

Hydrant Flushing Frequently Asked Questions can be found here:  https://www.stcharlesil.gov/news/2016/04/08/hydrant-flushing-facts-frequently-asked-questions 

If you have any further questions, please contact Public Works at 630-377-4405 or pw@stcharlesil.gov

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updated Mar 15, 2024