Sanitary Sewer Maintenance

Sanitary Sewer Maintenance – What Can Homeowners Do to Help?

The sanitary sewer system begins with the plumbing fixtures inside your home. All drains—from sinks, tubs, showers, and toilets—connect to the sewer service line that exits your home and connects to the sewer main under the street. Each drain has a "trap" and a vent pipe that help prevent sewer gases and odors from entering your living space.

If one fixture is backed up, the issue is likely inside your house. However, if multiple fixtures drain slowly—or if wastewater backs up through the basement floor drain—the problem may lie in the sewer service line or the main line in the street.

Homeowner Tips to Prevent Sewer Issues

  • Add a gallon of water to floor drains and seldom-used fixtures to ensure water remains in the trap and prevents odors.
  • Never flush diapers, sanitary products, wet wipes, rags, or other items that may clog the system.
  • Do not pour gasoline, grease, oil, antifreeze, paint, or other chemicals down any drain.
  • Use garbage disposals sparingly; avoid sending grease, cooking oils, or coffee grounds down the drain.
  • Take immediate action if you suspect your sewer line is partially blocked.

Suspect a Problem?

If you suspect a sewer obstruction or backup and are unsure of the location, contact the South St. Paul Utilities Division before hiring a drain cleaning company. The City will inspect the sewer main through a nearby manhole to determine whether the blockage is in the City's line.

If the sewer main is clear, the issue is likely in your private sewer service line—the pipe between your home and the main. Tree root invasion is a common cause of these obstructions.

To report an issue: Call Public Works at 651-554-3225, Monday–Friday, 7:00 a.m.–3:30 p.m. After hours, weekends, or holidays, call 911. City crews will be dispatched to assess the situation.

If it is determined there is no issue in the City's main line, you will be advised to contact a licensed plumber or drain cleaning service. The City does not recommend specific service providers. Property owners may choose to seek multiple estimates.

Please notify the City after your sewer service has been cleaned. The cleaning process often pushes solids into the City’s main, which may cause blockages and require attention.