Sewer District

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About Our Sewer District

The City of Lancaster is dedicated to protecting public health and our environment by keeping our sewer system safe, reliable, and efficient. The Lancaster Sewer District, which serves all properties within the City limits, manages a critical network of approximately 429 miles of sewer lines and 8,965 manholes.

Our Utility Services Division works year-round to inspect, clean, and repair these lines to ensure wastewater from homes and businesses is transported safely to regional treatment facilities operated by the Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County. These efforts are crucial in preventing sewer overflows, protecting our local environment, and maintaining the high quality of life that our residents expect.

The Challenge

The sewer service rate was first established in 2007 and has remained unchanged for over 15 years. While costs for labor, materials, and equipment have risen significantly, our funding has remained flat. This has created a critical financial shortfall. The Sewer Maintenance Fund is operating in a deficit of $200,000. Compounding the challenge is our aging infrastructure. Nearly a quarter (23%) of our sewer system is over 50 years old and requires more frequent, costly repairs. The current funding level is not sufficient to cover daily operating costs and build the necessary reserves to replace pipes and equipment as they reach the end of their service life.

Enter your property address in the interactive map to see if you live within the district.

FAQ's

How can I determine which Sewer District my property is part of?

What is the Lancaster Sewer District?

Who manages and maintains the sewer system?

How is the sewer system funded?

What is the sewer service charge for FY 2024-25?

How is my sewer service charge calculated?

The charge is calculated by multiplying the number of “sewage units” assigned to your property by the annual rate of $78.00. This rate is applied uniformly to all properties across the City; a property’s total charge depends on its land use classification (e.g., commercial, industrial), which determines its number of assigned sewage units. These funds are used exclusively for the sewer system’s operation, maintenance, and replacement.

The number of units is determined by the property’s land use as defined in City Ordinance 876. For example, a duplex is assigned two units (2 x $78 = $156), while a small food store is one unit ($78).

Why is there a funding problem?

What does the sewer service charge pay for?

How do I pay my sewer service charge?

How was the district formed?

Before 2008, the City’s sewer system was maintained by the Consolidated Sewer Maintenance District of Los Angeles County (CSMD). Following a “Sewer Feasibility Study,” the Lancaster City Council determined that local control would better serve the needs of residents. In 2006, the Council voted to withdraw from the CSMD.

On July 1, 2008, the City of Lancaster’s own Utility Services Division officially assumed full responsibility for the operation, maintenance, and servicing of the sewer system. This transition to local management was funded by the Sewer Service Charge, which was established in 2007 through a public hearing process in accordance with Proposition 218. This ensures that the City has direct oversight of this critical infrastructure and that all funds collected are dedicated solely to maintaining a safe and reliable sewer system for Lancaster.