CRISIS AVERTED: MATERIAL CLOGGING PIPES

The Goleta Sanitary District owns and maintains over 132 miles of underground sewer pipes within the District service area. During recent routine cleaning and Closed-Circuit TV inspection, there was a substantial amount of build up inside several sections of sewer pipe from what appears to be a grout-like material. This deposit in the sewer system can lead to sewer overflows into homes and damage the environment.

The District would like to remind everyone that this type of material should never be flushed down the drain or poued into a sewer clean-out. It can solidify and clog your sewer lateral (your connection to the main District sewer pipe) and the District’s sewer main line. As seen in the attached picture, once this material settles in the pipe, it can be several inches thick. Removal of the material is time consuming and costly. If the sewer lateral is clogged with this type of material, replacement of the sewer lateral may be required, which is the property owner’s responsibility and costs in the thousands of dollars.

All residents are reminded that grout, grease, oils, paint, debris, kitty litter, and any other such items should not be flushed or poued down the drain as they will clog the sewer pipes. These clogs are difficult to emove and cause sewer overflowsresulting in wastewater contamination of your streets, creeks and local beaches. Remember the 3P’s for safe flushing: ONY Pee, Poop, and (toilet) Paper. Remind any private contractors not to dispose of grout, cement or any other construction material into the sewer system. Violators are subject to civil and criminal action and liability for District costs associated with material removal and pipe repairs.

If you have any questions or would like additional information, please contact our Collection System Manager, Shamus O'Donnell at (805) 967-4519.