TMAPC denies request to waive sewer 'dry lines,' citing future public cost and capacity plans

The Tulsa Metropolitan Area Planning Commission on Aug. 20 voted to deny a requested modification to the city subdivision and development regulations that would have exempted a 47-acre proposed subdivision from installing public “dry” sanitary lines while relying on on-site septic systems.

The denial came after staff and Tulsa water and sewer officials said the area drains to the Rose Dew lift station and the Spunky Creek interceptor basin, which the city plans to relieve in coming years as part of a larger sewer investment. City staff recommended denial, saying the dry-line requirement prevents expensive, later retrofits that would be paid with public dollars.

Planning staff explained at the hearing that the modification request sought to waive subdivision regulation section 5‑1130.1.D.1 (the requirement to install stubbed sanitary mains or “dry lines” for future connections) so the developer could proceed with septic systems without installing the normally required public mains in easements. Joan Gosvick, planning manager for utility planning at the Tulsa water and sewer department, told commissioners the utility is finishing a wastewater study and expects the Rose Dew…