FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions

• What is a "sewer lateral"?

A “sewer lateral’ is that portion of the sanitary sewer line which connects a house’s or business’ plumbing to the District’s sewer system. Typically, most, but not all, of the “sewer lateral” is on private property, while the other portion of the sewer system, the “sewer main,” is usually all in the public right-of-way..

• Who is responsible for breaks or stoppages in my sewer lateral?

The property owner is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the sewer lateral from the building plumbing to and including the connection at the main sewer.

• Do I need a Backflow Prevention Device (BPD)?

If you have experienced or suspect that your home is vulnerable to a sewage backup or overflow, call the District for a FREE inspection of your property. A District Inspector will visit your property and can determine whether a BPD is required. Please visit our BPD page for more information.

• Where can I find a qualified plumber to work on my house side sewer?

A list of plumbing contractors currently registered with the Stege Sanitary District is available at our District office. If you choose a contractor not currently on the list, the contractor must first register with the District and obtain a permit before doing any side sewer work.

• What is a sewer easement and do I have an easement on my property?

An easement is a legal right for someone to use another's property for a particular purpose such as a sewer line. Most easements do not affect the owners day to day use of the property, causing many to forget one even exists. Occasionally, the District may need to excavate in a sewer easement to make needed repairs, but extra care will be taken to prevent unnecessarily harming any surrounding areas. Please check out our information page for more on easements.

If you would like to find out if you have a sewer easement on your property, call us at (510) 524-4668 during normal business hours.

• Do I need to replace my sewer lateral when I sell my house?

In June 2005, the District revised its Ordinance Code and Standard Specifications, and they now require property owners to obtain a “Certificate of Compliance” for their sewer laterals upon the sale of property, prior to the close of escrow. This may often result in the need to replace the lateral.

The reasoning for this requirement is to help ensure that sanitary sewers are operating properly, are not leaching into the ground, and are not infiltrating the drainage system that flows to the Bay. Please check out our information page for more on our Sewer Lateral Compliance Plan.