St. Charles Fall Hydrant Flushing Begins October 6

Published on September 30, 2025

The City of St. Charles is flushing hydrants beginning October 6 and continuing through October 31. Please note that hydrant flushing could temporarily cause water discoloration, even for homes outside the 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 zone 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 October 6 - Friday October 10

• Northwest – Monday October 6 - Friday October 10

• Southwest – Monday October 13 - Friday October 17

• Northeast – Monday October 20 - Friday October 24

• Southeast – Monday October 27 - Friday October 31

Signs announcing hydrant flushing will be posted in affected neighborhoods. Flushing may start as early as 5 a.m. and continue until 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 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 stain remover, at no cost, to residents at the following facilities:

• Public Works, 1405 S 7th Ave

• City Hall, Reception Desk, 2 East Main Street

For more information, contact the Public Works Department at 630.377.4405 or visit our website stcharlesil.gov.