Common Laterals

RVSD_LateralsGraphic_8.25.21 Opens in new windowA common (shared) sewer lateral is a privately owned lateral that serves more than one property. 

Ordinance 100 (Section 13) does not allow the construction of new common laterals. You can view our Ordinance here. Existing common laterals are part of RVSD's legacy system.

While RVSD offers assistance with inquiries, common laterals are considered private matters in which the District does not get involved.

DISCLAIMER: The examples provided are for general illustrative purposes only and should not be relied upon for any particular property or as a basis for any financial or other commitments. Property owners are strongly encouraged to consult with an attorney and/or other professionals regarding site-specific conditions and obligations.

View more information regarding responsibilities, disconnecting, and hiring a contractor below.

  1. Responsibilities
  2. Disconnecting
  3. Hiring a Contractor

Homeowners with common laterals are responsible for their maintenance, repair, and replacement. It is recommended that they discuss entering into maintenance agreements among all owners served by the common lateral and establish a cooperative approach.

Without such an agreement, homeowners sharing common laterals are generally responsible for the entire portion of the lateral on their property, up to the next downstream lateral connection. This responsibility may include where the lateral crosses onto another property, regardless of whether a recorded easement exists. 

Homeowners with the furthest downstream lateral connection are responsible for the remaining portion of the lateral, including its connection to the public sewer main.

Property owners with separate laterals (not shared) that connect directly to the public sewer main are responsible for the entire lateral on their property including its connection to the public sewer main. 

This responsibility may extend to where the lateral crosses onto another property, regardless of whether a recorded easement exists.