Right-of-Way Lateral Failure Repair

The Municipal Services Department has taken responsibility for the repair of sanitary sewer lateral failures which occur in the public right-of-way or sewer easement as a result of an amendment to City Code in early 1995. Repairs will be performed on laterals that have experienced structural failures. If the lateral is broken and requires excavation to repair, the city may elect to make the necessary repairs. Maintenance problems, such as root ingrowth and blockages, remain the responsibility of the property owner.

The property owner is required to provide proof of a failure by contacting a plumber to have the lateral televised and the location of the failure marked with paint or flags which would indicate a structural failure is present in the right-of-way or sewer easement. 
 

Sewer Maintenance Division (SMD) crews will investigate suspected lateral failures in the right-of-way.  Crews use dye testing and TV inspections to confirm a failure.

For further information or to request an investigation, please contact the Sewer Maintenance Division at (816) 325-7727.