The City of Newport Beach Utilities Department will respond to any sewer blockages or problems.but the responsibility of a sewage blockage on private property which is the sewer line beginning after the cleanout, is that of the property owner. Should a back-up, spill or overflow of service occur in the service lateral, the property owner or tenant must take steps to clear the obstruction and stop the discharge of sewage from their property. Allowing sewage to discharge into a gutter, storm drain, or onto public property is a violation of State Health Safety and Water codes. Sewage spills occur when the wastewater transported in underground pipes overflows from a manhole, broken pipes, and/or service lateral cleanouts. Sewage spills can potentially cause health hazards and/or cause damage to homes, businesses, and threaten the environment, pollute waterways, and beaches. Sewage spills can be noticeable -- usually gushing water from a manhole or a slow water leak that may take time to be noticed. Some suggestions to help avoid sewer blockage include:

• Do not pour oil or grease into the drain or garbage disposals -Wipe out excess oil from pans or skillets before washing.
• Do some research regarding the root system of plants, trees, and shrubs that you will be planting on your property.

If you are planning on having a plumber remove roots or grease from a sewer lateral, call 644-3011 so we can inspect our lines to insure that the debris from your lateral does not plug the main sewer line. That number again is 644-3011. There is no charge for this service. In the event of a blocked service lateral or if you notice a spill on public property, contact the Utilities Department main offices, between 7:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Friday at 644-3011. If the service problem occurs after regular working hours, please contact the Police Department Dispatch Center at 644-3717. The dispatcher will immediately contact a Utilities Department Duty Personnel who will respond to your home or business.