Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Sewer Laterals topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
City: property owners are responsible when tree roots invade private sewer laterals
Summary
Public Works Director John Hauth and City Administrator Michael Kuchta told the committee that the city generally has no liability for tree roots invading private sewer laterals and that property owners are typically responsible for repairs; staff noted roots usually invade where the lateral is already damaged.
Public Works Director John Hauth and City Administrator Michael Kuchta addressed recent resident requests to cut down trees whose roots have invaded sewer laterals, telling the committee that the city generally has no liability in those situations and that responsibility lies with the property owner.
Staff explained that tree-root invasion commonly occurs where a sewer lateral already has damage, and therefore the city’s practice is not to accept liability for private lateral repairs. The committee did not take formal action on the matter during the meeting.
