Broken valve releases 50,000 gallons of wastewater in Sarasota neighborhood

Jun 24, 2025

SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) - A broken valve caused 54,000 gallons of wastewater to spill in a Sarasota County neighborhood, county officials said.

Sarasota County Public Utilities staff responded to the 5000 block of Vivienda Way where they found an air release valve spilling wastewater.

Workers confirmed that the valve was hit by either a mower or a golf cart, causing the spill.

About 54,000 gallons spilled; about 2,500 gallons were recovered.

The spill was contained in a nearby wetland and no waterways were affected. Sampling is required and cleanup is being completed according to protocol.