Renton residents experiencing a sewer problem in home or business, should call the city Wastewater Maintenance section before calling a plumber, regardless of time of day. City crews will respond to evaluate the sewer main. If the problem is not found to be in the main line and is determined to be in the private wastewater system, the crew will provide assistance, information, or troubleshooting within the limits of their authority.
The Wastewater Maintenance section performs preventative maintenance and repairs to the city’s wastewater systems. An eight-member crew maintains 21 sanitary sewer pump stations and over 232 miles of sewer pipe. This section is responsible for responding to sewer backups 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Wastewater Maintenance uses an aggressive Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) program, allowing underground systems to be inspected. It also assists identifying needed repairs and evaluating systems to prioritize replacement. Current priority inspections are the downtown area and requests from Utility Engineering.
The wastewater team is dedicated to ensuring that all utilities are functioning properly to prevent sewer overflows and flooding of private property. This team is committed to customer service and public safety.
For sewer related emergencies, such as slow draining or plugged sewers, call Public Works Maintenance at 425-430-7400 before calling a plumber. After 3:30 p.m. or on weekends, contact the Renton Police Department's non-emergency number, 425-430-7500, option #8.