What is the difference between gravity sewer versus pressurized (forcemain) sewer?

Gravity sewer is the most common type of sewer service and works exactly how it sounds – sewage flows by gravity from building to sewer lateral and from there to the main sewer line. Pressurized (forcemain) sewer may be an alternative when gravity sewer is not available – sewage is pumped by a grinder pump installed near the building and travels by pressure through collection mains. Typically, a 2 inch sewer tap with check and plug valves is installed at the right-of-way.

General Notes

Things to keep in mind when getting a sewer installed:

  • Public Works will provide the pressure range for pressurized sanitary forcemain connections.
  • Customer is solely responsible for providing, installing and maintaining grinder pump, connection and all plumbing on customer side of sewer tap.
  • Inspection by City of sewer connection is required while trench is open.
  • Startup test of grinder pump with City inspector is required prior to use.
  • Customer must provide copy of grinder pump Performance Curve and Technical Specs to City prior to utility connection fee payment.
  • Future upgrades to customer's grinder pump may become necessary and will not be the City’s responsibility.

Show All Answers

1. How can I get information about utility service?
2. What are utility flow-based fees for typical uses?
3. What are the payment options for utility connection charges?
4. How long will it take to provide water/sewer service to a residence?
5. When should I pay utility connection charges?
6. When will the city install new utility services to a residence?
7. Where will the new water/sewer services be located for my residence?
8. How do I unlock my water meter, set up, activate or change a city utility account?
9. Why are utility connection fees charged?
10. What do I need to do if I have a change-of-use, increase in use or additional use at my property?
11. If my water/sewer is already connected, why do I need an availability request form?
12. Are utility connection charges transferable or refundable?
13. Do utility connection charges expire?
14. What needs to happen if a building connected to city water and sewer is being demolished?
15. The property is outside city limits; why should I contact the City for utility service?
16. Is city water/sewer connection mandatory?
17. What is the difference between gravity sewer versus pressurized (forcemain) sewer?
18. How do I get installation and connection of private building service line to water/sewer service?
19. What are the requirements for existing well and septic tank after connection to city water/sewer?
20. What is the responsibility for maintenance and repair of service connections?
21. What is the landscape irrigation water meter?
22. What are the backflow prevention requirements?
23. Is the city responsible for water/sewer service installation?