For most properties, the private side sewer can be located so that sewage from the property will enter the public sewer by gravity. In some instances, however, the residence is lower than the elevation of the public sewer. When this situation exists, it is necessary for the property owner to install and maintain a residential sewage pump to lift the sewage from the residence up to the public sewer. Decisions to permit individual residential pump stations are made on a case-by-case basis by Central San. The property owner should consult the Central San early in the planning process to ascertain whether pumping will be allowed. All installation, operation, and maintenance costs for a residential sewage pump and piping are borne by the owner of the property.

Jurisdiction

The District has jurisdiction over pumping system specifications when the equipment will be pumping directly to the sanitary sewer main or to the side sewer located outside of the building structure. Most local city or county government within our service area have differed to Central San for the pump requirements. Prior to the installation of a pumping system, Central San approval and permit (if the pump is located outside of the building) is required.

Applications & Instructions

The Applicant must demonstrate that a gravity sewering alternative is not feasible, before an individual lot pumping system will be allowed. The Applicant’s plumber should assist in selecting the pump, submitting the application with a site plan and a completed pump diagram. Typical review time is 1 to 2 weeks after submittal of a complete application. 

Single Family or Attached Structure Pump Application

Detached Structure Pump Application

Multi-Family or Commercial Pump Application

Approved Materials List

The current Approved Materials List is provided below. If a pump/tank is not selected from the Approved Materials List, Applicant shall also provide the following manufacturer product sheets: Pump Specifications, Pump Curve, and Tank Specifications. 

Approved Materials List 2022 Edition  (see pages 8 and 14)