Sewer

wastewater vactor truck

OPoway wastewater statsnce water leaves a house or business through the toilet, sink, or shower it is called wastewater. About one billion gallons of wastewater (sewage) flows through Poway's collection system each year. Wastewater is transported via pipelines to the City of San Diego’s North City Water Reclamation Facility for treatment into reclaimed water.

Interesting fact: Wastewater from Poway is treated and then reused as recycled water for irrigation purposes in Poway's South Business Park.

The primary goal of Poway’s Wastewater division is to protect against sewage spills by providing ongoing preventive cleaning, maintenance, and repair of the sewage collection and transportation system. This includes emergency removal of sewer line blockages, and maintenance of the structural integrity of sewer mains ranging in size from 8 to 33 inches. The division also administers the Fat, Oil, and Grease (FOG) Program responsible for the permitting and compliance monitoring of food establishments to minimize the discharge of grease into the sewer system. Wastewater utilities workers ensure maintenance and rehabilitation of manholes and video inspects sewer mains to determine maintenance and repair needs. 

What not to flush graphic

To ensure sewer pipes stay clog-free and avoid backing up, here is a list of items you should never flush down the toilet:
  • Adhesive bandages
  • Bleach
  • Cat litter
  • Cigarette butts
  • Condoms
  • Contact lenses
  • Cooking grease
  • Cotton swabs, pads, balls or other cotton products
  • Dental floss
  • Diapers
  • Fish
  • Food
  • Hair
  • Gum
  • Medication
  • Menstrual products
  • Paint
  • Paper towels & tissues
  • Shirts or Rags
  • Wipes (even if they say they are flushable) and never baby wipes

Sewer System Management Plan

The City of Poway transports wastewater through 186 miles of internal collection pipelines for eventual treatment by the City of San Diego or the City of Escondido. In an effort to manage the wastewater collection system effectively, a Sewer System Management Plan (PDF) was developed and approved by the City Council.  If you have questions regarding the wastewater system, please contact the Wastewater Utilities Supervisor at 858-668-4719.