The City has easements on approximately 1,600 private properties in order to access City wastewater (sewer) lines and/or maintenance holes that run through backyards. While most wastewater lines are located under public streets, some are located on private property based on engineering requirements at the time of construction.

Wastewater from homes and businesses generally flows through private underground front yard or backyard wastewater lateral pipes to the City wastewater collection system, where it is pumped to the City’s Wastewater Treatment Plant. To prevent or alleviate wastewater back-ups in backyard easement pipes, access points called “maintenance holes” allow the City to access the wastewater pipes in order to remove blockages, periodically hydro-clean the pipe (using high-pressure water to clear out clogs and other blockages) and make necessary repairs.

When City wastewater lines and/or maintenance holes run through backyards, City crews will occasionally require access to the backyard of these properties in order to perform maintenance of the wastewater line. The City’s Municipal Code § 33.03.450 authorizes immediate right of entry for City staff to access wastewater infrastructure in emergency situations. For details on the City Code, please contact the City Clerk at 530-757-5648. Wastewater operations questions can be directed to Public Works - Utilities and Operations Department at 530-757-5686 or PWWeb@CityofDavis.org.

While it may be inconvenient to have City crews working in your backyard, it is essential to perform this maintenance and/or repair work in order to ensure that wastewater is safely carried away from homes and businesses to protect human health and the environment.

Every few years, the City sends letters to all properties with backyard easements to remind them of the easement.

More information about easements.

What to expect if City crews need access to your yard 

In most instances, if City crews need to enter a yard to access wastewater lines, maintenance holes and/or cleanouts, advance notice be provided. City crews will leave a door hanger on the front door of the property to let the customer know when service work will be performed. However, in the case of emergency work, it will not be possible to provide advance noticing of when access is needed.