In Lakewood, the public sewer mains are maintained by the Los Angeles County Consolidated Sewer Maintenance District, part of LA County Public Works. The private sewer lateral that runs from your house to the main is generally the property owner's responsibility. Overflows from manholes or the public sewer go to the county at 1-800-675-HELP (4357).
Public main vs private lateral
Your house has one main drain line that leaves the foundation and runs under the yard to the public sewer main, usually in the street, sometimes in an alley or easement. That private line is the lateral. The Lakewood sewer system page directs overflow reports to the county, and the LA County Sewer Maintenance Districts website explains the county's role. Exactly where your responsibility ends, for example whether it includes the connection at the main, can vary, so confirm with the county if a defect is near the street.
Which problems are yours, and which are the county's?
| What you see | Likely owner | First call |
|---|---|---|
| Sewage overflowing from a manhole or the street | Public sewer | County, 1-800-675-HELP |
| Backup into your lowest tub or floor drain | Usually private lateral | Plumbing provider |
| Your own cleanout overflowing | Usually private lateral | Plumbing provider |
| Several neighbors backing up at once | Possibly public main | County first |
Not sure what you need? Talk it through by phone.
Call (708) 350-9399Why Lakewood laterals fail
Many laterals date from the early 1950s, when the Lakewood Park Corporation built most of the city. Clay and cast-iron pipe crack and separate at joints, and roots from mature trees grow in. On Lakewood's flat lots, a small sag can hold water and waste. See sewer line repair and tree roots in Lakewood sewer lines.
How to find out what's wrong
A sewer camera inspection shows the pipe's material and condition and measures the distance to any defect. A locator can show whether that spot is on your property or near the main. Ask for a copy of the video.
Permits for lateral repair
The City of Lakewood lists sewer work among projects that often need a permit and has a dedicated sewer permit application on its permits and forms page. The city's who can obtain a permit page lists who can pull sewer permits.
Preventing problems
Keep grease out of drains, don't flush wipes, know where your cleanout is, and consider a camera inspection if your line has clogged more than once. See drain cleaning and our drain cleaning cost guide. If you're buying, a camera inspection belongs on the home-buyer checklist.
When should you call a plumber about this?
Call when you see active leaks, water damage, sewage, repeated clogs, low pressure across the house, or anything involving gas. Call too when a job needs a permit, or when you're buying a home and want an inspection before you close. Describe what you've noticed, the home's age and your address or cross streets. You'll hear on the call whether your address and job are covered.
How was this guide researched?
This guide was written for Lakewood, California homeowners and checked against the sources below on November 11, 2026. Rules and prices change, so confirm anything important with the agency or provider. See our editorial policy.