Regional Sewer Lateral Ordinance Takes Effect January 1st

As of January 1st, Alameda properties fall under the East Bay Municipal Utility District’s (EBMUD) regional private sewer lateral ordinance.

The change is part of a previous court settlement covering a wide swath of the East Bay, intended to reduce the overflow and discharge of raw sewage into the bay.

Under the regional ordinance, a property owner must obtain a certificate verifying compliance with the ordinance when the property is sold, remodeled with a value in excess of $100,000, or if changing the size of the water meter.

The verification test checks to ensure that the lateral is free from roots, grease deposits and other solids, that joints are water tight, pipes are sound, and any clean outs are securely sealed.

EBMUD may take enforcement action including obtaining a court order ordering the verification test to be done, and reimbursement of legal and court fees.