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1. What is a private sewer lateral?

A private sewer lateral is the pipe that carries sanitary sewage from a private building to the City mainline. Property owners are responsible for maintaining their private sewer lateral (SMMC 7.38.432). In the City of San Mateo, private sewer laterals are defined as extending from the property structure all the way to, and including, its connection with the public sewer main. This is true whether the private sewer lateral is under a public right-of-way (street) or on private property in an easement.

2. What is the Private Sewer Lateral Cost Sharing Program?

The Private Sewer Lateral Cost Sharing Program is a cost share grant program created to assist and encourage property owners to properly maintain their lateral and ultimately reduce the amount of inflow and infiltration (I&I) into the City’s sewer system.

3. Who is eligible for the program?

Anyone who owns property within the City of San Mateo city limits is eligible, regardless of income or property type.

4. What does the City provide?

The City will provide financial assistance in the form of a grant reimbursement for the full lateral replacement costs reimbursement will be 50% of the lowest quote/invoice, up to a maximum of $5,000.

5. What costs are not part of the program?

Spot repairs, partial replacements, root work costs are not covered in this program.

6. How quickly does the City respond to inquiries?

The City will respond to inquiries on Monday and Friday of each week. Email is the preferred method. When contacting the City regarding this program please provide contact information, address of property, and question.

7. Does the grant amount have to be reported to the IRS?

Yes, grant recipients will receive a 1099G form from the City to report this amount on their personal income tax.

8. Does the City provide printed form packets? How can I turn in my forms? How does the City correspond to property owners?

• Property owners will need to have access to email. All application acceptance, quote approvals, and correspondence with the City will be via email.
• You can pick up a Sewer Lateral Program packet at City Hall if needed. 
• The documents can be filled out and returned by mail, email, or directly to City Hall. When turning in documents via mail, or to City Hall make to the Attention: Sewer Lateral Program.

9. Does the City Provide recommendations for service providers?

The City cannot provide recommendations for service providers.

10. What happens if there is a change in the scope of work?

Any change in the original estimated scope of work/cost must be approved by the City. Changes must be submitted to the City for approval prior to proceeding with work. If you fail to do so you will NOT be eligible to receive reimbursement.

11. What if my street is under moratorium?

The City will email the applicant with parameters/language to add to quotes for the additional resurfacing work that will need to be completed by the property owner. Please refer to Municipal Code 17.32.020.