Preventing Sanitary Sewer Spills

The District has more than 135 miles of sewer pipes, which are cleaned and inspected with closed-circuit television (CCTV) on a regular basis to prevent sanitary sewer overflows (SSOs). Smoke testing is conducted to find and eliminate sources of groundwater, rain runoff and illegally connected yard/gutter drains that can overburden the collection system’s ability to safely convey wastewater to the treatment plant. Restaurants and other commercial establishments that can discharge grease, oils, and other detrimental materials are routinely inspected to ensure that these discharges do not cause spills.

Please Report Spills

If you notice sewage overlowing from a District manhole, please call the District at (805) 967-4519 Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. , or (805) 564-7259 after 5:00 p.m. , on weekends, and on holidays. However, sewage backups within homes or on private property are usually the responsibility of the property owner. In these situations, you should call a plumber.

Protect Your Side (Lateral) Sewer Line

Maintaining the side sewer line, known as a lateral, which connects a home or building to the main sewer line, is the responsibility of the property owner. The side sewer should never be broken or cut in order to connect a gutter or drain, or to run a plumber's snake. Tree roots, rodents, or contaminants can enter through a break, creating maintenance, health, and environmental problems.

Side Sewer Line (Lateral Line) Installation

See Section 7 of the District’s Standard Specifications for complete information regarding sewer line installation. If your're looking to join the district's sewer system please check out the "Permitting" page on our website to learn more. 

Please Call Us Before Snaking Your Lateral (Side Sewer)

Goleta Sanitary District is happy to provide area residents with information on installing an approved cleanout access. Residents should also notify the District in advance when planning to have roots cleared from a lateral sewer. If staff is available, the crew can monitor the main sewer and remove any root balls cut free from your lateral sewer, preventing the material from clogging the main sewer pipeline. The crew can also answer any questions relating to sewer line problems. Please call (805) 967-4519.

If Your Building Faces a Steep Road

Homes and buildings that front a steep road run the risk of sewer backflow. Call the District at (805) 967-4519 to determine whether your property includes a proper backwater valve device.