When you need this
- Sewage backing up into a tub, shower or floor drain
- Gurgling toilets or drains after water runs elsewhere
- Slow drains in more than one fixture at the same time
- Sewage smell or soggy ground near the cleanout or yard line
- Roots, cracks or an offset joint visible on camera
How we handle it in Whittier
In Whittier, the property owner is responsible for repairs to the house sewer lateral under Whittier Municipal Code Chapter 13.32. Because the lateral runs under the parkway and sometimes the street, a lateral problem can look like a city problem when it is not.
A spot repair makes sense when the camera shows one cracked joint, a short offset or a root-damaged section and the rest of the pipe is sound. If the pipe is cracked in several places, bellied or collapsed, we will say so and quote a replacement instead of a repair that will fail.
What is included
- Camera inspection from the cleanout to the city main
- Written quote naming the exact section to repair
- Plumbing permit, plus excavation or street-cut permits when needed
- Repair with ABS or PVC pipe rated for sewer use
- Re-inspection with Public Works and a copy of the final video
Whittier permits for sewer lateral work
The City lists a separate permit for each section of the lateral. Fees below come from a City of Whittier handout and may have changed; confirm with Public Works at (562) 567-9500.
| Section | Permit | Listed fee |
|---|---|---|
| A. Building to property line | Plumbing permit (contractor only) | $59.50 |
| B. Property line to curb | Excavation permit (residential) | $120.00 |
| C. Curb to main | Street-cut permit and lane-closure permit | $326.00 and $366.00 |
Lateral or city main?
If the camera shows the blockage is in the city's sewer main, call the City of Whittier sewer emergency line at (562) 567-9240.