What a cleanout is
A sewer cleanout is a short vertical pipe that connects to the main drain or sewer lateral and is closed with a threaded or push-in cap. It lets a plumber feed a cable or camera straight into the main without pulling a toilet or going through the roof vent.
Many Fullerton homes have an outdoor cleanout near the foundation, often on the side of the house closest to the street, and some have a second one closer to the property line. Older houses were not always built with one, and some cleanouts have disappeared under decades of landscaping, decking or concrete.
Where to look
- Along the foundation on the street side of the house
- Near a bathroom or kitchen wall that faces the yard
- In a planter bed, sometimes buried a few inches under mulch or soil
- Inside a small round or square access box set flush with the ground
- Toward the front property line, along the path the sewer takes to the street
- In the garage, laundry area or a hall closet in some homes
What it usually looks like
- Size
- Roughly three to four inches across
- Material
- Black or white plastic, or older cast iron
- Cap
- Threaded plug with a square or raised nub for a wrench
- Height
- A few inches above grade, or flush inside a box
If you cannot find one
- IfYou have the house plans or past inspection reportsThenCheck them; cleanouts are often marked on plumbing sheets or noted in inspection photos.
- IfThere is a buried box or a capped pipe stub you are unsure aboutThenPoint it out to the plumber; do not dig around it with metal tools.
- IfThere truly is no cleanoutThenThe plumber can usually go in through a toilet flange or a roof vent. Ask whether installing a cleanout makes sense, and whether it needs a permit.
- IfThe cleanout is under concrete or a deckThenAsk about relocating or extending it during any future yard or sewer work.
Getting it ready before you need it
- Locate it.Find the cleanout on a dry day and take a photo you can show a plumber.
- Clear around it.Trim plants and pull back soil so the cap is visible and reachable.
- Check the cap.A cracked or missing cap lets debris and roots in. Mention it at the next plumbing visit.
- Tell the household.Make sure everyone knows where it is, and that it should stay closed during a backup.
Common questions
Can a plumber clear the main without a cleanout?
Usually yes, through a toilet flange or roof vent, but it can take more time and set-up. A cleanout makes access simpler.
Is the cleanout the city's responsibility?
A cleanout on your property is generally part of your private plumbing. Ask the City of Fullerton about any cleanout near the property line or sidewalk.
Why is there water sitting in my cleanout?
Standing water visible in an open cleanout often means the line downstream is restricted. Have it checked before it becomes a backup.
General information for Fullerton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.