Sewer Lateral Replacement Grant

Program Purpose

The Sewer Lateral Replacement Grant Program (SLRGP) provides financial assistance to property owners for the replacement of their private sewer lateral, which, due to their age or condition, are often a source of groundwater infiltration and surface water inflow (I&I) to the sewer collection system. Groundwater infiltration and inflow (I&I) to the sewer collection system increase the amount of wastewater processed at the City's wastewater treatment facility, which increases costs.

Ownership / Responsibility

All sewer laterals belong to the property owner from the home or building to, and including, the connection at the City main. Property owners are responsible for all costs relating to their sewer lateral, including; installation, connection, maintenance, repair, reconstruction, alteration, abandonment or removal to prevent inflow and infiltration (See figure 1). (Ord. 2282 NCS §3 (part), 2007.) (Petaluma Municipal Code 15.40.060)

What is a sewer lateral?

The sewer lateral consists of the pipe that begins at the buildings plumbing system connection, usually a sewer cleanout located approximately two (2) feet from the foundation, and extends to, and includes, the connection at the public (city) sewer main.

Infiltration and Inflow

Infiltration is the seepage of groundwater into the sewer pipes through holes, cracks, joint failures and faulty connections.

Inflow occurs when surface water flows into sewer pipes at points of direct connections such as roof, yard, foundation and basement sump drains.

Grant Amount

The maximum amount of assistance for a sewer lateral replacement or repair is 50% of the approved cost, up to a maximum reimbursement of $2,000. Only complete replacement of the sewer lateral or a repair that completely eliminates infiltration and inflow is eligible for the program. All SLRGP applications are subject to approval by the Utilities (Water & Sewer) Division.

Application Checklist

1. Download program info sheet and application.

2. Complete sections 1 and 2 and submit the completed application to Public Works & Utilities Department (202 North McDowell Blvd.) for review, determination of eligibility, and approval.

3. Receive a letter of approval, requirements, and obligation. Obligating funds will only be issued to the property owner.

Grant Availability

The City runs on a July 1 - June 30 fiscal year.

Grant funds are available beginning July 1 of each fiscal year, and all work must be completed by June 30 of that same year.

Funds will be obligated on a first-come, first-serve basis until all funds are allocated or the end of the fiscal year June 30.