What should I do if I am having sewer problems?
For Pevely residents experiencing sewer problems, you may contact the sewer department at its day number: (636-475-7769) for advice or to have the sewer mains checked during working hours prior to calling a plumber. If after hours or on weekends city personnel will respond by calling the emergency number (636-475-4498) however if the problem is deemed not to be in the sewer main a $50.00 service charge will be billed.
What if my toilet works but my kitchen sink wont drain?
If some of your plumbing fixtures are draining properly but others arent then the problem is not in the sewer main or the sewer lateral, the problem is most likely within the plumbing in the house.
What if none of my plumbing fixtures will drain and the city sewer main is not backed up?
It is likely that the lateral is clogged or broken between the house and the main.
It is recommended that a reliable plumber be contacted.
Who is responsible for the sewer lateral?
The homeowner is responsible for the sewer lateral from the house to the main including the tapping saddle. (Link Section 720.090:)
Do I need a permit from the city if I have to dig up my lateral?
Only if you will be digging on city right of way or easement. ( link Section 720.070: Ord. No. 445 Art. IV )
Will I need an inspection?
If you are making a spot repair that does not require a permit and will not be replacing the cleanout or P- trap, an inspection will not be required. However if you are required to have a permit or will be replacing the cleanout and P trap you will need to schedule an inspection by contacting the Building Code Department at 636-475-4452 or the Sewer Department at 636-475-7769. Inspections require a 24hour notice and are conducted during normal working hours. ( link Section 720.150: Ord. No. 445 Art. IV )
Can I connect my down spouts and basement sump to my sewer lateral?
No, Sumps, down spouts or any other storm water pipes are strictly prohibited from connecting to the city sanitary lines. (link Section 720.130: Ord. No. 445 Art. IV)
Are there construction requirements for sewer laterals?
Yes, the city requires that all sewer laterals be constructed with either 4 or 6 schedule 35 or 40 pvc pipe and have a St. Louis County style P trap and clean out within 10 of the building. All 4 laterals must have a tee cleanout every 50; 6 laterals shall have a clean out tee every 80. All clean outs shall be capped and a minimum of 18 above finish grade. All tapping saddles shall be pvc Y type. Prior to city inspection, pipe shall be bedded in granular backfill (all pipe and saddle must be visible). After inspection pipe is to be covered in granular fill (granular fill pile is to be visible on site). All areas where drivable surfaces are expected granular backfill shall be filled to grade and compacted in 6 lifts. ( 2006 International Plumbing Code IPC at
www.iccsafe.org)
Remember before you dig Missouri State Law requires that all underground utilities be located.
This can be done by calling 1-800-DIG RITE