Cleaning versus repair

Clearing a clog with a cable or jetter is maintenance and generally does not involve the city. Replacing or lining a sewer lateral, adding a cleanout, excavating in the yard or working near the street can be different, and permit requirements are set locally. Rather than rely on a general rule, check with the City of Anaheim's building or public works staff for your specific project.

Responsibility for the pipe also matters. Property owners are generally responsible for their private sewer lateral, but the exact point where that responsibility ends and the city's begins is defined by the city. Ask before any work near the property line or in the street.

Checking a contractor

  1. Get the CSLB license number.Ask for it in writing, along with the business name it is issued to.
  2. Look it up at cslb.ca.gov.Confirm the license is active, the name matches, and the classification fits plumbing work.
  3. Ask who will do the work.Find out whether employees or subcontractors will be on site.
  4. Ask about permits.For repairs, ask whether a permit is needed and whether the contractor will obtain it.
  5. Get the scope and price in writing.Include what will be done, how it is priced and what happens if more work is found.

What a written agreement should cover

Who to contact for what

  • IfA clog in your house or private lateralThenA licensed plumbing contractor.
  • IfSewage overflowing from a street manhole, or several neighbors backing upThenThe City of Anaheim, since the public main may be involved.
  • IfQuestions about permits, inspections or where your responsibility endsThenThe City of Anaheim's building or public works office.
  • IfDigging is plannedThenUtility marking through 811 before anyone digs.
  • IfYou smell natural gas near the workThenLeave the area and call 911 or SoCalGas from outside.

Questions to settle before a sewer repair

  1. Does this repair need a permit, and who obtains it?
  2. Will the city inspect the work?
  3. Is any part of the work in the public right-of-way?
  4. What restoration of yard, driveway or floor is included?
  5. Can I keep the camera footage from before and after?

Common questions

Do I need a permit for drain cleaning?

Routine cleaning generally does not need one. For repairs, replacements or new cleanouts, check with the City of Anaheim for current requirements.

What does a CSLB license check tell me?

It shows whether a contractor's license is active, who it is issued to and its classification. You can look it up for free at cslb.ca.gov.

Who fixes the sewer pipe under the sidewalk?

It depends on how the city defines responsibility for the lateral. Contact the City of Anaheim before assuming either way.

General information for Anaheim, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.