Don't Invite the Grease Monster

Keep cooking grease, oil, animal fats and food scraps out of the drain. Grease is the most common cause of sewer blockages that cause backups into homes and businesses. It is the responsibility of home and business owners to maintain the building sewers, private sewers, and service lines  that connect to the City of Lafayette sanitary sewer.

What To Do If Your Sewer Backs Up

If your sewer service is backing up, call your plumber and Public Works. The problem may be in your service line (the line connecting your house to the City’s main) or in the City’s main. Public Works can fix problems in the main, but not in your private line. The plumber can take care of problems in your private line, but not the City’s. It may take both of us to sort it out.

It is up to you to find a responsible plumber. The City cannot recommend one to you.

To call the Public Works Department, dial 303-665-5588 Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. For after-hours emergencies, call Boulder County Dispatch at 303-441-4444 and ask them to page Public Works. Be sure to leave accurate address and telephone information when requesting Public Works assistance.

A crew will respond to check the City’s main sewer line. If the line is blocked, the crew will open the line. We will report our findings to you. City crews cannot help with cleanup.

If cleanup is necessary, you may want to have a professional cleaning service do the work for you. If you decide to do the work yourself, take precautions to guard your health and safety. Use eye and face protection. Also use rubber gloves and boots that can be cleaned or discarded after use.

Electrical appliances pose a special danger.  Do not use them in a wet area. Do not shut off electricity of the breaker box is wet or near water. Avoid using outlets that may be wet or are near water.

Dry wet areas by encouraging air circulation. Open windows and use fans. Minimize mold and mildew damage to carpets by thorough cleaning. Either contact a professional or rent equipment.