Typical homes

Residential streets here include many postwar single-story homes on slabs. Where original plumbing remains, expect cast-iron drains inside and clay or cast-iron laterals running toward the street, often beneath mature yard or parkway trees.

Original lines that have served a household for decades are not necessarily failing, but they are less forgiving. Grease, wipes and heavy paper use catch more easily on rough, scaled pipe, and roots exploit any loosened joint.

Settling questions before a lateral repair

  1. Confirm jurisdiction.Make sure the property is in Stanton before relying on Stanton's rules.
  2. Locate the defect.Use camera footage and distances to show where the problem is.
  3. Ask about responsibility.Check with the city which part of the lateral is the owner's.
  4. Confirm permits.Ask who obtains any permit and arranges inspection.
  5. Get written options.Compare spot repair, lining and replacement in writing.

Terms you will hear

Lateral
The private sewer pipe from the house to the public sewer main.
Parkway
The strip between sidewalk and street, often planted with trees.
Property-line cleanout
An access point near the front of the lot, useful for clearing toward the street.
Sewer main
The public pipe in the street that laterals connect to.

Who to contact

Permits, if in Stanton
City of Stanton
If outside Stanton
Your own city's building or public works department
Water service
Provider named on your bill
Gas smell
Leave and call 911 or SoCalGas from outside

Questions for a plumber

  1. Do you work in Stanton and the neighboring cities, and do you know their permit processes?
  2. How close to the street is the defect?
  3. Would adding a property-line cleanout help future maintenance?
Map of Magnolia Avenue area. It shows an area, not an office or a job site.

Common questions

My mailing address says Stanton. Am I in the city?

Usually, but not always. Confirm with your property tax bill or the city.

Do neighboring cities have different sewer rules?

They can. Check with the specific city that has jurisdiction over your property.

Are parkway trees my responsibility?

Often they are a city matter. Ask the city before trimming or removing one.

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