Sewer Maintenance FAQ's

My plumber said there is a problem with my sewer and that the City will fix it. Is this true?
Actually, the City is responsible for the sewer mainline only. Maintenance of a sewer lateral attaching itself from the residence to the mainline serving private property is the responsibility of the property owner.

Why doesn't the City repair my property's sewer lateral under the street?
City maintenance crews clean the sewer mainlines to ensure proper flow. Access to sewer laterals are from cleanouts located on private property. Private property owners maintain and clean their own sewer laterals.

There are tree roots in my line, apparently from a city parkway tree. My plumber says the line must be broken, and he wants a lot of money to fix it. What should I do?
First, find out if the line is actually broken. This can be done using a TV camera designed to fit in the sewer pipe. Your plumber may be able to do this. If it is not broken (small cracks are common) and the line is clear, a regular treatment of root killer will mitigate root intrusion. If the line is broken, obtain several price quotations for its repair as prices vary greatly.

What is "Root Killer"?
Root killer is a generic term for a line of products that soften and destroy tree roots on contact. They are available at hardware stores. Used as directed, they alleviate most root problems, and should be a part of a regular sewer maintenance program. Their use for clearing pipes will not harm the tree.

Can my plumber work on my sewer line?
If the work is to be done entirely on your property, yes. A plumber with a C-36 Contractors license and a Culver City business license can do the work. An Engineering Class A, Sewer Contractor Class C-42, or Pipeline Class C-34 license and a Culver City Business License with a $1,000,000 Insurance policy on file are required to do work within the public right of way (e.g. under the sidewalk, in the parkway or the street). A permit from the City would be necessary to work within the public right of way. To obtain a permit contact the Engineering Division at (310)253-5600.

What kind of pipe can I use to repair my sewer line?
If there are no root problems, vitrified clay pipe (VCP, AKA red clay pipe) is recommended. Some plumbers may recommend cast iron pipe (CIP) as an alternative to VCP. Unless the CIP has a special cement mortar lining, it may rust as a result of chemical and bacterial attack. Schedule (Sch) 40 PVC or Sch 40 ABS can be used as well.

What type of permit is required?
Permits for work on your private property are issued by the City's Building and Safety Division. Permits for work within public right of way are issued by the Engineering Division which may contacted at 310-253-5600.