City of Torrance
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What is a Sewer Lateral?
Often called a House Connection, it is the "part of the horizontal piping beginning twelve (12) inches from the exterior wall of the building and extending to its connection with the public sewer." The sewer lateral is the responsibility of the property owner.
Who is responsible for maintaining the sewer lateral?
Private property owners are responsible for properly operating and maintaining their sewer laterals, including the point of connection to the public sewer main line. Owners of sewer laterals maintain their lateral in a properly functioning manner. The proper maintenance of a sewer lateral is important because leaks from the lateral can cause roots to intrude and may cause a backup inside a home or business. A spill can also result leading to public and/or environmental health impacts.