The pipe has more than one owner

The public sewer main under the street is generally the city's to maintain. The building drain inside your house is yours. In between is the lateral, and where the dividing line falls along it, and who pays for work near the street, differs from city to city. Some cities draw the line at the property line, some at the main, and some at a cleanout.

This guide does not state Fullerton's rule, because ordinances and policies change and can depend on the specific situation. Ask the City of Fullerton for the current answer for your address before you commit to work near the street.

Questions for the City of Fullerton

  1. Where does the property owner's responsibility for the sewer lateral end?
  2. Who handles a blockage or break in the portion under the parkway or street?
  3. Does lateral repair or replacement need a permit, and which kinds of work are covered?
  4. Is an inspection required, and at what stage of the work?
  5. Are there rules about work in the parkway, sidewalk or street, or about street trees?
  6. Is there any requirement related to sewer laterals when a property is sold or remodeled?

Who to call first

  • IfSewage is overflowing from a manhole or the streetThenReport it to the city. That is a public sewer problem.
  • IfOnly your house is backing upThenA licensed plumber usually clears your line first and finds where the blockage is.
  • IfThe camera shows the blockage near or past the property lineThenShare the footage and distance with the city and ask how they handle it.
  • IfSeveral units in one building back upThenContact the HOA or property manager; the building sewer may be shared.

Paperwork worth keeping

  • Camera footage and the written summary of the findings.
  • The located distance of any defect from the cleanout.
  • Any permit number and inspection sign-off.
  • The contractor's name, CSLB license number and invoice.
  • Before and after photos of the work area.

Why this matters during an emergency

In the middle of a backup, permits are not the first concern. Clearing a blocked line generally does not involve the same paperwork as replacing it. The questions above matter once flow is restored and a repair is on the table.

Common questions

Do I need a permit to have my line cleared?

Routine clearing is generally not treated the same as repair or replacement. Ask the city or your contractor if you are unsure about your specific job.

Will the city clear my lateral for free?

That depends on city policy and where the blockage is. Ask the City of Fullerton directly.

What if my contractor says no permit is needed?

You can confirm with the city's building division before work starts.

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