Tyler, TX
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Sanitary Sewer System
The function of the sanitary sewer collection system is to safely and efficiently collect and transport wastewater from the point of use to the point of treatment. The sanitary sewer collection system consists of around 700 miles of mains ranging in size from 6" in diameter to 54" in diameter.
Private Sewer Lateral
A private sewer lateral (PSL) is the pipe that connects your home's plumbing to the City of Tyler sanitary sewer line, usually located under your street. This pipe carries all of the waste water from your home to the sewer, including everything washed down your sink or flushed down your toilet.
Watch TWU Project Engineer explain the private lateral sewer rehabilitation project.
Maintenance
Water Service Center personnel are responsible for protecting public health by reducing sewer spills through the operation and maintenance of all sewer mains, manholes, cleanouts and other system components in accordance with Federal, State and local rules and regulations. This is accomplished by making repairs as needed to pipelines and appurtenances, performing preventative maintenance such as cleaning pipelines and manholes and adjusting the depths of manholes and cleanouts as required during construction of other projects and improvements. Proper maintenance of the wastewater collection system aids in reducing the amount of inflow and infiltration into the collection system which reduces treatment costs and increases treatment plant efficiency. In addition, the Water Service Center provides support and assistance to other City departments, as needed.
New Sewer Taps
Installation of sewer service connections (taps) from the main to the property line or point of user connection is performed only by Water Service Center personnel or a contractor approved by the Director of Utilities and Public Works. A fee is charged for each new tap to a sewer main for a connection. Contact the Development Services Department at (903) 531-1171 to schedule a sewer tap and to pay the applicable fee(s).
Sewer Backups
If your sewer backs up, please call the Water Service Center during regular business hours at (903) 531-1285. A crew can make sure the blockage is not in the city-owned portion of the pipe before you incur the expense of a private plumber.
For emergencies after hours, on weekends or holidays, please call the Golden Road Water Treatment Plant at (903) 597-6541.
Cleanouts
It is a good idea for all property owners and tenants to become familiar with the general layout of their plumbing system, especially the location of their sewer cleanout. The cleanout cover is usually located in the yard and allows easy access to the more distant parts of the private sewer line so blockages may be removed. A plumber can help locate sewer cleanouts.