Sewer Lateral Program

Program Overview

A sewer lateral is the part of your sewer system that runs from the foundation of the house to the sewer main, which is usually under the street. Most residents don’t give it much thought until there are backup problems.

The program is designed to assist residents with the high cost of replacing their sewer lateral line. These costs can range anywhere from $1,500 to $10,000 depending on the depth and length of your sewer line and the significance of the break. The program has a special fund to assist homeowners in meeting this expense. This is a break-even fund, with no additional tax support. Payments from the fund may be reduced due to the fund balance available. Please contact the Public Works Department for more information on this funding.

Program guidelines may be changed by the City Council to give the best possible benefit to the residents within the limits of the funds available.

View the Sewer Lateral Guidelines & Application

Program Cost

The county collects a fee of $50 a year, or $12.50 per quarter from each residential property owner. This money then goes into a separate fund solely for sewer lateral repair. The annual fee is the maximum allowed by state law so it could be reduced in the future but it cannot be increased.

Covered Expenses

Effective immediately, the City will absorb 100%  of the sewer lateral repair cost, including the cost for the videotaping link. The City will obtain the Master Plumber/Drainlayer Certification from the City’s authorized plumber/technician.  The City will select the plumber/technician authorized to perform the videotaping as well as request the Master Plumber/Drainlayer Certification (Scope of Work).

Please keep in mind, any application received prior to July 1, 2025, will not eligible under the new Sewer Lateral Program. These applications will follow the prior Sewer Lateral Program guidelines; 85% paid by the City and 15% paid by the homeowner.