Show All Answers

1. What can I do if I smell sewage?

If the odor is coming from inside, it may be a plumbing issue. Contact a licensed plumbing contractor for assistance. If coming from outside, contact RVSD at 415-259-2949.

2. What should I do about slow drainage or sewage backing up into my home?

Slow drainage is often due to issues in your private sewer lateral, such as root blockages or grease buildup. If experiencing a backup while using household water outlets, turn them off immediately to stop the flow. Use towels or rags to keep the spill from spreading and protect your home. Call a licensed plumbing contractor to access the issue. You may qualify for financial assistance if lateral replacement is needed. Learn more here. If not using household water outlets or if neighbors are also affected, this may indicate a public sewer issue. Call RVSD at 415-259-2949.

3. What should I do if sewage is overflowing onto the ground or street?

For a public sewer emergency, such as a manhole overflow, leaking pipe, or sewage on the ground, contact us immediately for a 24-hour response at 415-259-2949. Various sewer and stormwater issues require specific responses:

Overflow Devices:  When blockages occur in public or private sewer lines, wastewater can back up, causing overflows. Overflow devices prevent sewage from entering buildings by releasing wastewater outdoors. If you suspect your private lateral is causing an overflow, contact a licensed plumbing contractor. For spills near a creek, manhole, or on the street, it may involve the public sewer. Contact RVSD immediately at 415-259-2949. For more information on overflow devices, click here.

Manhole Structures: Typically located in the middle of streets, these provide access for pipe inspection and cleaning. RVSD's manholes range from 25 to 42 inches in diameter and are typically labeled "Sanitary Sewer". Report any overflows immediately by calling 415-259-2949.

Storm Drains: Carry rainwater only and are typically under curb openings in the gutter, with a grated or slotted metal cover. Contact your local Public Works Department or the Marin County Department of Public Works at 415-499-6570 to report problems with storm drains.

Watch RVSD's "Call Us First" video to learn how to recognize signs of sewer spills and how to respond.

4. I need to replace my sewer lateral. Does the District offer funding?

Yes, the District offers grant and loan funding. Review both programs before performing work. Learn more here.

5. I plan to sell my property. What do I need to know before selling?

Property owners must obtain a Certificate of Compliance for any of the following: buying or selling a property, remodels of $75,000 or greater, and bathroom additions. For information on steps for compliance click here.

6. I recently purchased my property. How long do I have to comply?

You have 90 days from close of escrow and will receive automated notice letters in the mail. If you are experiencing delays and cannot make the 90-day window, you may click here to email staff with a status update to avoid fees/penalties. More information on steps for compliance can be found here. 

7. I'm planning a remodel. What do I need to know?

Property owners must obtain a Certificate of Compliance for any of the following: buying or selling a property, remodels of $75,000 or greater, and bathroom additions. Remodel projects may incur fees based on added drainage fixtures. More information on steps for compliance can be found here. There are four Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) types. Properties adding an ADU are subject to applicable fees. View information on ADUs and fees here. Outdoor showers and sinks must also meet RVSD standards. View information on Outdoor Drainage Fixtures here.

8. When is a sewer permit required?

Events requiring a Sewer Permit include but are not limited to: Pressure Tests, Partial or Full Replacements, Repairs, Clean Outs, Backflow Prevention Devices, New Connections, New Construction, Remodels, Septic-to-Sewer Conversions, Public Sewer Extensions, Pool Drains, Discharge Permits, Abandonment. To learn more, view our Permits page.

9. How can I find my private sewer lateral?

Contact a licensed plumber familiar with RVSD standards to locate and repair issues with your private sewer lateral. Information on hiring a contractor can be found here. Your plumber will video the lateral to assess its location and connection to the public sewer. RVSD may have diagrams on file; call us at 415-259-2949 to check for records. Maps or drawings received by RVSD are not exact or guaranteed.

10. What is my responsibility, and what is RVSD's?

Property owners are responsible for the sewer pipe from their building to the public sewer, including the portion located beneath the sidewalk and street up to the connection to the public sewer main.

RVSD offers grant and loan funding for private sewer lateral replacement. View our Grant & Loan Programs here. For assistance with defective private sewer laterals, contact a licensed plumbing contractor familiar with RVSD standards. More information on permitting and hiring a contractor can be found here.

RVSD manages the public sewer and pump stations which collect, pump, and transport wastewater to Central Marin Sanitation Agency for treatment. RVSD's jurisdiction covers Larkspur, Ross, San Anselmo, Fairfax, and unincorporated areas such as Kentfield, Greenbrae, and Sleepy Hollow.

11. What can be done to fix a manhole cover that rattles every time a vehicle rolls over it?

RVSD structures typically have solid covers labeled "Sanitary Sewer". Call 415-259-2949 to report a rattling manhole.

12. What should I do if my sewer lateral is broken by a contractor or utility company?

For public sewer emergencies such as manhole overflows, leaking pipes, or sewage on the ground, contact us immediately at 415-259-2949 for a 24-hour response. Please have the address or location ready. Contractors and utilities must also promptly notify RVSD if they damage a public sewer. Contractors should work with residents to correct any damages to private sewer laterals or other utilities during private work.

PG&E Gas Line Replacements

During PG&E's gas line installations, some private sewer laterals may unintentionally be pierced or bored through, known as a cross bore. Underground Service Alert (USA) does not mark private sewer laterals, which can lead to undetected cross bores and create potentially hazardous situations. For more information visit PG&E's website. If you suspect a cross bore has occurred, contact PG&E. For gas leaks, evacuate the area, call 911, and notify PG&E immediately.

Call USA NORTH 811 to mark public utilities before you dig.