Trees and laterals share the same strip of ground

On many Fullerton streets, the sewer lateral runs from the front of the house, under the yard, then under the parkway strip between the sidewalk and the curb on its way to the main in the street. That same parkway is where many street trees were planted when the neighborhood was new.

After decades of growth, a big tree's roots can spread well past its canopy. If a joint in the lateral leaks anywhere within that reach, the roots will find it. That is a pipe problem first: a tight pipe would not have attracted them.

Tree or pipe: where to focus

  • IfRoots are coming in at one cracked section near a treeThenRepairing that section is usually the fix; the tree can often stay.
  • IfRoots appear at joints all along the lineThenThe pipe is the problem; removing one tree will not stop others' roots.
  • IfA repair requires digging near a large treeThenAsk the plumber how they will handle roots in the trench, and check with the city if the tree is in the parkway.
  • IfThe tree is unhealthy or a hazard for other reasonsThenTalk to the city or a certified arborist about the tree separately from the pipe.

Planting near a sewer line

  • Find out where the lateral runs before planting; a camera locator can mark it.
  • Keep large, fast-growing trees well away from the line's path.
  • Choose shrubs and smaller plants for the strip directly over the lateral.
  • Avoid heavy irrigation right over the pipe, which can keep roots active there.
  • Ask a local nursery or arborist about root habits of the species you like.
  • For parkway planting, check the City of Fullerton's rules first.

When digging meets roots

Spot repairs and replacements near mature trees mean cutting through roots in the trench. Cutting large structural roots can affect a tree's health and stability. A careful contractor will plan the excavation with that in mind, and an arborist can advise on what a tree can tolerate.

Trenchless methods can sometimes reduce the amount of root disturbance compared with a long open trench. Ask whether that is realistic for your line.

Questions to settle

  1. Is the tree near my sewer line on my property or in the city parkway?
  2. Who should I contact at the city about a parkway tree?
  3. Will the repair method cut major roots of the tree?
  4. Would lining the pipe avoid disturbing the tree?

Common questions

Can I make the city pay for roots from a parkway tree?

Responsibility for laterals and parkway trees is set locally. Check with the City of Fullerton about your situation.

Will removing the tree stop roots in my sewer?

Not by itself. Existing roots stay in the pipe, and an open joint can attract roots from other plants.

Are some trees worse than others for sewer lines?

Trees with aggressive, far-reaching roots are more likely to find a leaking joint. A local arborist or nursery can advise on specific species.

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