Septic in Santa Barbara County, CA

Last updated: Mar 21, 2026

From the misty coast to the sunlit orchards of the Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Barbara County is a place where your home's wastewater system has to work with dramatic terrain and varied soils. Here, septic isn't a one-size-fits-all topic—it's part of everyday life for many neighborhoods, and a smart, well-maintained system can serve your family reliably for decades.

Is septic common in Santa Barbara County? Should I expect septic if I own or buy a home?

  • Yes, septic systems are common in many rural and unincorporated parts of the county. Urban towns and newer developments are more often connected to municipal sewer, but you'll still find plenty of homes with septic where sewers don't reach or where the cost of extending a sewer line isn't practical.
  • If you own or are buying a home here, you should not assume a sewer connection. Check the property records, speak with the local sewer district or county planning office, and look for a septic permit or service history. A professional septic evaluation can save you surprises down the road.

Why homes typically use septic systems in Santa Barbara County

  • Geography and soil: The county's mix of hills, cliffs, and inland valleys means sewer lines are expensive to trench across rugged terrain. In many parcels, on-site treatment with a septic system is a practical, reliable option.
  • Groundwater protection: Properly designed and maintained septic systems help protect shallow groundwater and sensitive coastal ecosystems that are a priority here.
  • Cost and logistics: Extending centralized sewer service to remote or low-density areas can be prohibitively costly. On-site systems offer a practical compromise for homeowners and communities alike.

County growth history and how that has impacted septic coverage

  • Growth patterns shaped the footprint: Early towns expanded with limited sewer service to outlying neighborhoods. As populations grew, some areas were urbanized with public sewers, while many rural and hillside parcels remained on private systems.
  • Infrastructure pace vs. demand: The county's varied topography and water-resource considerations slowed the uniform rollout of municipal sewer in the mid- to late-20th century. This left a durable role for septic in substantial parts of the county, particularly where homes are dispersed, hilltop, or farmland.

High-level explanation (why septic exists here)

  • On-site treatment aligns with how land and water move through our landscape. Well-designed septic systems use the soil to filter and treat effluent, reducing the need for large, costly infrastructure in hard-to-reach places. Regular maintenance—pumping, inspection, and proper use—keeps them safe, efficient, and compliant.

Here you'll find practical, neighborly guidance—from maintenance calendars and pumping intervals to when a system needs upgrades or replacement. Think of this as your locally grounded resource, written by someone who knows the terrain and the rules, and who's here to help you keep your system—and your home—running smoothly.

How Septic Is Regulated in Santa Barbara County

Regulatory framework

  • In Santa Barbara County, onsite wastewater treatment systems (OWTS) are regulated primarily by the county's Environmental Health Division, with state standards providing the baseline for design, installation, maintenance, and compliance.
  • State agencies establish minimum requirements for OWTS performance, permitting, inspections, and groundwater protection. Key official resources include the California State Water Resources Control Board (OWTS program) and the California Department of Public Health (Onsite Wastewater Systems guidance).
  • Local rules fill in details like setback distances from wells, property lines, and surface water, as well as approved system types and installation practices. Always verify with the county to ensure your project matches current local requirements.

Permitting and plan review

  • Before installing, replacing, or repairing an OWTS, you typically must obtain a permit from the county.
  • A typical permit package includes a site evaluation, soil investigation results, proposed system design, a site plan showing structure locations and setback distances, and a maintenance plan.
  • The county reviews plans for compliance with OWTS design standards, soil conditions, loading, and potential impacts to groundwater or nearby wells and waterways.

Evaluation, design, and soil testing

  • A qualified professional conducts a site evaluation to determine soil suitability, percolation rates, groundwater depth, and the appropriate wastewater treatment approach.
  • Soil tests and a detailed site assessment inform the choice of system type, riser depth, distribution method, and pump/altreatment components if needed.
  • In areas with challenging soils or sensitive receptors, the county may require alternative treatment technologies or enhanced treatment designs to meet performance standards.

Inspections and compliance

  • Inspections occur at key milestones during installation: trenching and backfilling, placement of components, and final system acceptance.
  • An authorized inspector verifies that the installed work matches the approved plans, adheres to setbacks and piping specifications, and protects nearby wells and surface water.
  • Noncompliance can pause work, require corrective actions, and may carry penalties or remediation requirements. Keeping good records helps avoid delays.

Maintenance, transfers, and reporting

  • Homeowners are responsible for ongoing OWTS maintenance, typically including regular pumping and service by licensed professionals according to a maintenance schedule.
  • Maintain records of pumping, repairs, and inspections; these documents may be requested during property transfers or real estate disclosures.
  • Some systems or properties near sensitive resources may have additional maintenance or certification requirements—check with the county for any special provisions that apply to your site.

How to start and resources

  1. Contact the Santa Barbara County Environmental Health Division to confirm permit needs and scheduling for inspections.
  2. Gather preliminary information: site evaluation, soil test results, and a proposed design.
  3. Hire a licensed OWTS designer/installer familiar with local rules.
  4. Submit a complete plan package and obtain a permit before work begins.
  5. Schedule required inspections and obtain final approval.

Official resources:

  • Santa Barbara County Environmental Health Division (local guidance and forms):
  • California Department of Public Health – Onsite Wastewater Systems:

Soil, Groundwater & Environmental Factors in Santa Barbara County

Local soils and percolation

Santa Barbara County features a mix of soil types—from well-drained sandy loams near the coast to heavier clays and shallow bedrock in some inland and hillside areas. Soils that drain quickly can allow septic effluent to move too rapidly, while very slow-draining soils can cause surface pooling or inadequate treatment. The best-performing septic systems sit in soils with moderate infiltration and good vertical drainage.

Practical steps for homeowners:

  1. Get a soils/percolation assessment when planning or repairing an OWTS. This helps determine drain-field size and soakage efficiency.
  2. Check county and university soil resources for local soil maps and percolation ranges (e.g., NRCS Web Soil Survey:
  3. Santa Barbara County Environmental Health Services – Onsite Wastewater information (official county resource): https://www.countyofsb.org/health/ehs/onsiteWastewater.shtm
  4. NRCS Web Soil Survey (local soil data): https://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov/

Typical Septic System Types in Santa Barbara County

Conventional septic systems

  • What they are: The standard design—a gravity-fed septic tank connected to a soil absorption area (drainfield). Treated wastewater percolates through the soil, where natural processes remove much of the remaining contaminants.
  • Common components: Septic tank, drainfield trenches, perforated pipes, gravel or backfill, and a soil interface.
  • When you'll see them: Many older homes on well-drained soils with adequate depth to groundwater and no severe slope.
  • Maintenance basics: Regular pumping (typical range 3–5 years, depending on use and local codes), screen and filter checks, and inspecting for sump pump or surface drainage issues that could overwhelm the system.

Aerobic Treatment Units (ATUs)

  • What they are: A small engineered system that uses controlled oxygen to treat wastewater before it reaches the drainfield, producing higher-quality effluent.
  • How they work: An ATU tank plus an aerator or blower creates aerobic conditions, then effluent moves to a drainfield or drip-dispersal system for final soil treatment.
  • Why homeowners choose them: Helpful when soil conditions are marginal (shallow bedrock, high groundwater, or limited absorption area) or when stricter effluent quality is desired.
  • Maintenance basics: Routine service visits, cleaning or replacement of effluent filters, and occasional maintenance of the aerator or pump as required by the manufacturer.

Mound systems

  • What they are: Elevated drainfields built above native soil in a constructed sand mound when soils are too shallow, too permeable, or water tables are too high.
  • Key features: A progressive layering of sand and turf, with a longer, raised absorption area and a maximum separation from seasonal groundwater.
  • When they're used: Steep lots, shallow soils, or sites with limited vertical groundwater separation.
  • Maintenance basics: Similar pumpings as conventional systems, plus surface vegetation management and inspection of the mound's surface and access ports.

Evapotranspiration (ET) beds

  • What they are: A soil-based disposal method that relies on evaporation and plant transpiration to remove water from the treatment zone.
  • Ideal conditions: Drier climates or sites with vegetation-friendly design; SB County uses ET beds where soil and climate permit.
  • Pros and limits: Low daily water output and simple components, but not suitable for all soils or all rainfall patterns; vegetation management is important.
  • Maintenance basics: Regular inspection of surface vegetation, weeding, and monitoring of effluent flow distribution.

Drip irrigation and non-potable reuse (dispersal for landscape irrigation)

  • What it is: Treated effluent or filtered effluent is dispersed underground to landscape beds or trees through drip lines.
  • Why it's used: Water conservation goals and landscape needs; requires permits, specialized design, and regular maintenance.
  • Important considerations: Compliance with local health and irrigation regulations; setback distances from wells and wells and property features; annual inspection of emitters and filters.
  • Maintenance basics: Filter cleaning, line flushing, Mend of emitter heads, and monitoring of soil moisture to avoid over-irrigation.

Sand filters and other secondary treatments

  • What they are: A downstream polishing step that uses a sand media filter to further remove solids and nutrients before final discharge.
  • When used: In sites needing enhanced effluent quality or where a drainfield is limited.
  • Maintenance basics: Periodic cleaning or replacement of filter media, effluent pump checks, and regular inspections.

Package treatment plants or shared systems

  • What they are: Small, factory-built wastewater treatment units or shared systems serving multiple dwellings or a small subdivision.
  • Pros: Can offer reliable treatment in challenging sites; may enable shared use of a larger, better-performing system.
  • Maintenance basics: Professional service contracts, routine inspections, and adherence to county permits.
  • Step-by-step homeowner checks to identify your system type:
    1. Locate the septic tank lid and drainfield area on-site plan or property records.
    2. Look for a small aerobic unit or control panel near the home.
    3. Check for mound features or ET bed surfaces in landscaped areas.
    4. Review county permit history or installation drawings through the local health department.
    5. Hire a licensed septic inspector if you're unsure about the system type or condition.

Official resources:

  • California Department of Public Health Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (OWTS):
  • EPA Septic Systems – Basic Information: https://www.epa.gov/septic

Typical Septic Issues Across Santa Barbara County

Common signs of septic trouble

  • Slow drains or frequent backups in toilets and sinks
  • Gurgling noises in plumbing when drains are used
  • Foul sewer odors near fixtures, the drainfield, or outdoors
  • Wet, spongy ground or unusually lush vegetation over the drainfield
  • Sewage backing up into toilets or sinks after heavy rainfall

Local factors that influence septic health in Santa Barbara County

  • Soil variety: coastal zones with sandy soils, inland areas with clay or rocky soils, and hillside properties all affect drainage and drainfield performance.
  • Water table and rainfall: winter rains can saturate soils and lead to drainfield overloading; drought conditions can stress a system if irrigation isn't managed.
  • Roots and landscaping: tree and shrub roots can invade lines or compact the soil around the drainfield.
  • Proximity to wells and sensitive areas: state and local setback rules apply; improper placement or overuse can risk groundwater quality.
  • Odor and air movement: coastal fog and marine air can carry odors further than expected if a drainfield is compromised.

Common causes of issues seen in Santa Barbara homes

  • Infrequent pumping and maintenance, leading to solids buildup and reduced tank capacity
  • Overloading the system with water and solids (excessive laundry, dishwashing, or garbage disposal use)
  • Flushing non-biodegradable items, wipes, chemicals, fats, oils, and solvents
  • Drainfield damage from heavy equipment, vehicles, or improper landscaping over the area
  • Age-related wear: cracked lids, damaged baffles, or corroded outlets in older tanks

Prevention and maintenance basics

  • Regular pumping: plan on pumping every 3–5 years, or more often for small tanks or high usage
  • Water use discipline: fix leaks, install efficient fixtures, stagger laundry and dishwasher cycles
  • Septic-safe practices: use products labeled safe for septic systems; avoid chemical drain cleaners and harsh solvents
  • Drainfield protection: keep vehicles off the drainfield area; plant only shallow-rooted vegetation; avoid paving over the area
  • Documentation: maintain a simple maintenance log (dates of pumping, inspections, and any repairs)

Step-by-step maintenance plan

  1. Locate and map your system: find the septic tank and drainfield, label lids, and mark boundaries.
  2. Establish a pumping schedule: set reminders with a licensed contractor based on tank size and household use.
  3. Schedule annual inspections: have baffles, lids, and the drainfield evaluated for signs of failure.
  4. Monitor and adjust: watch for early warning signs (odors, wet spots, or backups) and reduce water use during wet seasons.

Quick action steps if you notice a problem

  • Note exact symptoms: date, location of odors, and where backups occur.
  • Stop flushing non-biodegradables and avoid pouring fats or solvents down drains.
  • Conserve water: spread out laundry and irrigation to reduce load on the system.
  • Contact a licensed septic professional promptly for an inspection and pumping if needed.

Official resources

  • California Department of Public Health: Onsite Wastewater Systems (OWTS) program

  • California State Water Resources Control Board: Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems program

Septic Inspection, Permits & Local Oversight

Oversight in Santa Barbara County

  • Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (OWTS) are regulated by Santa Barbara County's Environmental Health Services (EHS) within the Public Health framework.
  • EHS handles OWTS permits for new systems, upgrades, and major repairs, conducts inspections, and can assist with compliance questions or issues.
  • For official guidance and contact information, check Santa Barbara County's Environmental Health Services page:
  • California Department of Public Health – Onsite Wastewater Systems information:
  • California OWTS general guidance and homeowner considerations (searchable through state portals): (start with OWTS program pages)

Cost Expectations for Septic Services in Santa Barbara County

Septic Tank Pumping and Cleaning

  • What it includes: removing accumulated solids and scum, cleaning the pump chamber, inspecting baffles, and checking the outlet flow. In Santa Barbara County, access on hillside properties and coastal lots can affect crew time and equipment needs.
  • Typical cost in Santa Barbara County: $350–$900 per service, depending on tank size, accessibility, and disposal fees.
  • When it's most needed: every 1–3 years for typical residential systems, or sooner if you notice slow drains, odors, or septic alarms.

Septic System Inspection and Certification

  • What it includes: visual inspection of tanks, lids, baffles, and distribution box; check for leaks, odors, and groundwater impacts; may include a basic camera check of accessible lines; written report for records or lender requirements.
  • Santa Barbara County notes: some property transfers may require a formal inspection and certificate per local practice; accessibility and report depth can influence price.
  • Typical cost: $300–$650 for a standard inspection; real estate transfer inspections sometimes listed as $150–$350 for a quick check, with full reports at the higher end.

Dye Test and Soil/Percolation Evaluation

  • What it includes: dye testing to verify conveyance and leakage, soil observations, and eligibility for repairs or upgrades; may include soil percolation tests for new or rebuilt systems.
  • Santa Barbara County notes: hillside or coastal soils can complicate evaluations; more thorough assessments may be needed for compliance with local grading and setback rules.
  • Typical cost: $350–$900, depending on scope and whether additional soil testing is required.

Drain Field Evaluation and Maintenance

  • What it includes: field condition assessment, moisture checks, surface grading review, and recommendations for maintenance or repair; may involve camera or dye-based checks if access is available.
  • Santa Barbara County notes: access and terrain can increase labor time; groundwater concerns may affect recommended maintenance intervals.
  • Typical cost: $250–$700.

Drain Field Repair

  • What it includes: repairing damaged laterals, replacing failed components, repairing or replacing cover material, and restoring field function.
  • Santa Barbara County notes: rocky or clay soils and steep properties can raise labor and material costs; permits may be required for substantial work.
  • Typical cost: $2,000–$8,000, with higher-end projects on challenging sites.

Drain Field Replacement

  • What it includes: full design and installation of a new drain field, soil preparation, gravel/pipe layout, backfill, and permit coordination.
  • Santa Barbara County notes: slope, coastal soils, and access challenges can push costs higher; plan for environmental health permits and disposal fees.
  • Typical cost: $8,000–$40,000+, depending on size, site conditions, and regulatory requirements.

Tank Riser and Lid Installation

  • What it includes: installing risers to grade for easy future access and safer maintenance; improves inspection and pumping efficiency.
  • Santa Barbara County notes: coastal properties with uneven ground may require custom riser solutions.
  • Typical cost: $800–$2,000.

Septic Tank Installation or Replacement

  • What it includes: new tank installation or replacement, excavation, gravel, lids, and connecting lines; includes initial system design discussions and permit coordination.
  • Santa Barbara County notes: permit processing and site work can impact schedule; coastal or hillside sites may require additional stabilization or drainage measures.
  • Typical cost: $4,000–$12,000+ for the tank and basic installation, plus permit and disposal fees.

System Design, Permitting, and Upgrades

  • What it includes: system redesigns for code compliance, landscape-friendly layouts, and permit processing with the county; soil tests and final approvals are often part of the package.
  • Santa Barbara County notes: upgrading to newer, more environmentally protective OWTS standards may require additional testing and engineering, particularly near sensitive groundwater zones.
  • Typical cost: $2,000–$8,000 for design and permitting, with installation costs separate.

Real Estate Transfer Inspections

  • What it includes: a focused inspection to satisfy lenders or buyers, often paired with a full system inspection; may include quick camera checks if accessible.
  • Santa Barbara County notes: lender requirements vary; some buyers require certificates or formal reports.
  • Typical cost: $150–$400 for a focused transfer inspection, higher if a full report is needed.

Emergency and After-Hours Service

  • What it includes: 24/7 response for sewage backups, odors, or sudden failure; priority scheduling and expedited pumping or repairs.
  • Santa Barbara County notes: weather and terrain can affect response times; after-hours rates apply.
  • Typical cost: service call $125–$250, plus labor and any pumping or repair charges.

Cost considerations that influence pricing

  • Tank size and age; access to the site; slope and soil type; whether a camera inspection or dye test is included; permit and disposal fees; disposal facility costs.
  • Labor in coastal or ridge areas can be higher due to travel distances and equipment needs.

Resources

  • California Department of Public Health – Onsite Wastewater Systems:
  • U.S. Environmental Protection Agency – Septic Systems:

Cities & Communities in Santa Barbara County With Septic Systems

Lompoc

  • Description: Lompoc city itself is largely served by sewer, but the surrounding Lompoc Valley includes rural pockets and hillside areas where septic systems are still in use.
  • Why septic services may be needed here:
    • Homes or farms outside sewer mains rely on OWTS for wastewater treatment.
    • Older parcels with limited access require periodic pumping or field repairs.
    • Seasonal high water or drought can stress drain fields.
  • What to expect from maintenance:
    • Pump every 3–5 years (or per county guidance) by a licensed pro.
    • Schedule inspections after changes in use (guest houses, rental units) or rainfall events.
    • Avoid flushing non-biodegradables, fats, oils, and chemicals that can harm the drain field.
  • Quick maintenance checklist:
    1. Confirm tank size and access points with your contractor.
    2. Keep records of every service and any repairs.
    3. Water-use discipline and landscaping changes to protect the field.
    4. Check for odors, soggy spots, or slow drains and contact a pro if they appear.

Santa Ynez Valley communities (Santa Ynez, Los Olivos, Ballard, Buellton)

  • Description: The Santa Ynez Valley contains many rural parcels not connected to centralized sewer lines, so OWTS are common across these communities.
  • Typical service needs:
    • Pumping and inspections for aging tanks in hillside lots.
    • Drain-field issues from soil conditions or groundwater fluctuations.
    • Root intrusion from trees near field lines.
  • Maintenance approach:
    • Regular 3–5 year pumping cycles; more frequent if heavy use (vacation rentals, wineries' guest facilities).
    • Soil and drain-field assessments before major landscaping or irrigation upgrades.
    • Permit-aware repairs through Santa Barbara County Environmental Health.
  • Practical tips:
    • Maintain a map of tank and field locations for faster service.
    • Use low-flow fixtures and spread out wastewater load during peak seasons.

Montecito & nearby hillside communities

  • Description: Montecito and other hillside enclaves in the county rely on septic systems in areas without sewer service, with soil and groundwater conditions that influence system performance.
  • Common service needs:
    • System assessments before landscaping, tree removal, or new construction.
    • Drain-field restoration or replacement as soils change over time.
    • Root management and proper effluent dispersal planning.
  • How to prepare:
    • Engage a septic professional for a site-specific evaluation prior to big projects.
    • Consider landscape choices that minimize drainage load on the field.
    • Keep records and perform seasonal checks for odors or damp spots.

Goleta & Carpinteria foothills

  • Description: The foothill zones around Goleta and Carpinteria include rural neighborhoods where septic systems remain in use due to limited sewer reach.
  • Typical issues:
    • Aging tanks and leach fields in older parcels.
    • Saturation or slow drainage from nearby irrigation or rainfall.
    • Accessibility challenges for pumping and maintenance.
  • What homeowners should do:
    • Schedule proactive inspections, especially before buying or renting.
    • Plan for tank replacement or field repairs as part of long-term maintenance.
    • Label and protect drain-field areas from heavy equipment or excavation.

Summerland & northern coast communities

  • Description: Summerland and neighboring coastal communities have pockets where septic is still the practical option due to distance from sewer lines.
  • Likely service scenarios:
    • Regular pumping, soil testing, and field optimization after wet seasons.
    • Backups or odors during tourist peaks or drought stress.
    • Aging OWTS upgrades when necessary.
  • Best practices:
    • Work with a Santa Barbara County-licensed septic contractor for compliance.
    • Verify permits for any repair or replacement work.
    • Use absorbent landscaping and avoid compaction over drain fields.

Resources:

  • Official resources: County of Santa Barbara Public Health Department – Environmental Health: Onsite Wastewater Systems (OWTS) guidance and permit information.
  • State resource: California State Water Resources Control Board – Onsite Wastewater Systems:

Septic vs Sewer Across Santa Barbara County

Quick landscape

Santa Barbara County mixes coastal sewer districts with many private septic systems in unincorporated areas. Soil, groundwater, and terrain vary widely, so what works in one neighborhood may not in another. In general, cities and special districts provide municipal sewer service, while many rural, hillside, or far inland properties rely on septic systems.

How to know what applies to your property

  • If your property sits inside a city limits (Santa Barbara, Carpinteria, Santa Maria, Lompoc, etc.), it's typically connected to a municipal sewer system. Check with the city's public works or utility department.
  • If you're in an unincorporated area or outside city boundaries, you may have a septic system unless a nearby district offers an alternate sewer connection. Contact Santa Barbara County Public Works or your local district for maps and hookup options.
  • For any planned development, subdivision, or major remodel, verify current sewer availability and any required permits with official sources.

Pros and cons at a glance

  • Septic systems
    • Pros: Lower monthly fees for many households; flexible siting in rural areas; control over maintenance schedule.
    • Cons: Responsibility for pumping, inspections, and repairs; failure can cause groundwater and environmental issues; sensitive to soil type and groundwater depth.
  • Municipal sewer
    • Pros: Professional maintenance, shared costs across the community; lower risk of on-site failure; quicker repairs by the district.
    • Cons: Monthly service charges and connection fees; potential for system-wide outages or rate increases; need to adhere to district rules.

Costs and typical fees

  • Septic system costs
    • Installation: roughly $5,000–$20,000 depending on site conditions, tank size, and leach field requirements.
    • Ongoing maintenance: pumping every 3–5 years (more often with high usage); typical pumping cost around a few hundred dollars per service.
  • Sewer system costs
    • Connection/impact fees: one-time costs may apply if connecting to a district sewer.
    • Monthly charges: often a predictable, recurring fee based on property size and usage; ranges vary by district.
  • Local variations: coastal soils, tree roots, and groundwater depth can affect both installation and maintenance costs. Always get a site assessment from a licensed professional.

Maintenance basics you should schedule

  • Septic systems (homes with septic)
    • Have the tank pumped every 3–5 years (frequency depends on usage and tank size).
    • Have the system inspected by a licensed professional during pumping; check baffle condition, effluent screen, and soil absorption area.
    • Prevent damage: plant only shallow-rooted trees near the drain field; flush only toilet paper; avoid large amounts of grease or harsh chemicals.
  • Municipal sewer users
    • Follow district guidelines for what goes down the drain; avoid putting wipes, grease, or non-dispersables into the system.
    • Report any signs of trouble quickly (gurgling, backups, wet areas in yards) to the district's customer service.

Local considerations by area

  • Coastal communities often rely on established sewer districts with regular maintenance schedules; check with your city or district for backflow or backup protocols.
  • Inland and hillside areas are more likely to depend on septic systems; soil suitability tests and drainage design become critical for long-term performance.

Decision steps if you're considering a change

  1. Verify sewer availability for your address with the county or city.
  2. Compare long-term costs, including maintenance vs. monthly service charges.
  3. Assess site feasibility (soil type, slope, groundwater) with a licensed contractor.
  4. Review district rules, permitting requirements, and any incentives or financing options.

Resources to consult

  • California State Water Resources Control Board:
  • County of Santa Barbara official site: https://www.countyofsb.org/
  • Local sewer districts and city utilities (use the above sites to locate your specific district).