The City of Hercules, California, has a Sewer Lateral Ordinance (Ordinance No. 457) which addresses sewer compliance and regulates the inspection, testing, repair, and replacement of private sewer laterals connected to the city’s public sewer system.
Here are the key aspects of the ordinance:
• Purpose: The ordinance aims to ensure the reliability of the city’s sewer system, reduce sewage overflows by minimizing infiltration and inflow, meet legal requirements, and protect public health and safety.
• Certificate of Compliance: A Sewer Lateral Certificate of Compliance is required under the ordinance.
• Triggering Events for Inspection/Cleaning: Inspection and cleaning of a private sewer lateral are required upon certain events, such as when installing additional plumbing that significantly increases sewage flow, changing the property’s use, repairing or replacing any part of the building sewer lateral, or when the city deems it necessary for public health and safety. It is also required prior to the close of escrow during a property sale or transfer, or before recording a deed if no escrow is involved.
• Requirements for Obtaining a Certificate: Obtaining a Certificate of Compliance involves following the ordinance’s requirements, including submitting an application, paying a fee, and providing a video inspection by a licensed plumbing contractor.
• Addressing Defective Laterals: Property owners are responsible for repairing defective laterals to meet compliance standards and must cover the associated costs.
• Video Inspection: Video inspections are mandatory to confirm the lateral’s condition both initially and after repairs.
For more detailed information or specific inquiries, you can contact the City of Hercules Public Works Division at (510) 799-8241 or visit the City of Hercules website.