Sewer Stoppage Policy

Sewer Maintenance Responsibilities

Who is responsible for clearing a stoppage in my sewer lateral line?

The property owner is responsible for clearing all stoppages in their lateral line from the structure up to where it connects to the city’s sewer main. This includes any stoppages that are located in the public right-of-way and public utility easements (usually the area between the property line and the street).

Can the city clear my stoppage in the lateral line?

It is an established policy that the Village of Salado is not to be in direct competition with private enterprise (plumbers).

Can just anyone clear my stoppage?

State plumbing laws prohibit unlicensed individuals from performing plumbing work which includes clearing stoppages on private lines. Only a licensed plumber holding a valid Master Plumbing License can perform this type of work. Persons performing plumbing work without a valid license are subject to a fine per occurrence. You may check with the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners for assistance in locating a licensed plumber.

What is considered to be routine maintenance and cleaning?

Even new pipes can become clogged and require cleaning due to solids build up. Typically, routine maintenance and cleaning applies to sewer stoppages caused by roots, grease, foreign objects, or prohibited discharges that create stoppages

How can my stoppage be cleared?

Routine maintenance sewer stoppages caused by roots, grease, foreign objects or prohibited discharges on private property or within a private lateral line is the responsibility of the property owner. Cleaning of the line stoppage can be performed by the licensed plumber of your choice. Prohibited discharges that clog or damage the public main line may also be the responsibility of the property owner.

What is a Public Sewer Main?

A public sewer main line is usually located under the street in an easement or public right-of-way (R.O.W.) and serves multiple lots or properties and is shared by the public. This line is owned by the Village of Salado.

Who maintains the public sewer main line?

The Village of Salado is responsible for maintaining the sewer lines usually located under the street in public right-of-way and public utility easements.

What is a private sewer lateral line?

A private sewer lateral line extends from the public mainline to the residence or business. Private laterals only benefit or serve private property.

Didn’t the city install the private lateral line?

No, private service laterals are installed by the developer prior to the streets being built in the development and are included in the purchase price of the home.

Isn’t the R.O.W. city property?

No, public R.O.W. is used by the citizens and allows for the placement of private laterals to access the public sewer main. This is no different than private drive approaches, sidewalks, mailboxes, or sprinkler system, located in the R.O.W., all of which are maintained by the property owner.