Sewer Program

SEWER, which is short for Sewer Evaluation With Eligible Reimbursement, is a program offered to owner-occupied, single-family residential property owners that have a sewer service that is damaged under the sidewalk or street in the public right-of-way.

Repairs involving asphalt and concrete work tend to be considerably more costly; this program covers the cost of the backfill material, asphalt, and concrete used in the sewer service repair to reduce the overall cost to the homeowner. The amount of the reimbursement will be calculated based on the quantities of concrete, asphalt, and backfill materials used to complete the repairs in the public right-of-way by a licensed plumbing company.

Sewer Service Reimbursement Eligibility .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  . 

The following criteria have been established so that the SEWER program can be administered consistently and fairly:

Eligibility for program participation 
(must meet all three):
  1. Must be a single-family, owner-occupied residential property owner, and
  2. Must have a sewer service that is damaged under the street or sidewalk in the public right-of-way, and
  3. Must have a video showing the location and damaged sewer service
Damaged Pipe

Specific Technical Criteria  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  . 

Eligible:
  • Collapsed or crushed sewer service line, or
  • Severe offset joint, or
  • A structural problem that obstructs the flow of the service line and creates a sewer backup in the home 
Not Eligible:
  • Grease, roots, blockage in sewer service line, or
  • Minor offset joint, or
  • Flat spot in sewer service line, or
  • Improper maintenance, or
  • Damage located outside of right-of-way

Application process for Sewer Program .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  . 

Once a repair request and video are received, Utility Services inspects the area to ensure that the location is in the city right-of-way and that it meets the criteria for the cost-sharing program. If approved a SEWER affidavit will be sent to the homeowner to confirm eligibility.

Check out the links below to the YouTube video, FAQ's, and pre-qualification application for more detailed information and next steps.

If you need assistance or have questions regarding the program, please contact Public Works Field Services at 303.438.6334 during normal office hours, Monday-Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.