Sewer

Sewer Backup

In the event of a sewer backup, customers are encouraged to contact the city immediately. City staff will determine whether the main sewer line is clear before the resident incurs professional charges from a plumber. If a plumber is called before contacting the city and it is determined that the problem is on the city's line, the customer will not be reimbursed for the plumber's charges.

The city will correct problems that occur in the city line without charge to the customer. Problems that occur on the customer's private service line are the responsibility of the customer.

Service Line Maintenance

Utility customers can take steps to minimize the risk of unpleasant sewer backups. Service lines should be cleaned on a regular basis and can be inspected using a small camera to identify and locate problems. Older sewer service lines should have maintenance performed more frequently.

Unnecessary problems can be avoided by refraining from dumping kitchen grease down the drain, never flushing baby wipes or paper towels, and avoiding planting trees over sewer service lines or mains.

Root Removal

Tree roots can be a real menace to sewer lines, causing damage and blockages. Tree roots seek moisture and nutrients from leaky sewer lines.

The city controls roots by applying a mild herbicide from within the sanitary sewer. The herbicide kills roots in a confined area within and around the sanitary sewer line. The herbicide is effective in killing the problem roots, is not harmful to the tree, and is approved by the EPA.

Root problems in the customer's private service line are the responsibility of the customer. The city does not provide root herbicides, rodding equipment, or sewer cameras for use on service lines.