Sanitary Sewer System

WASTEWATER
Indoor water from homes and businesses travels through an intricate underground pipe system - the sanitary sewer system - before arriving at the San Jose/Santa Clara Water Pollution Control Plant (Plant).

The sanitary sewer system consists of 2,200 miles of pipe, 35,000 manholes, 16 pump stations, and other related infrastructure.

The City of San José Department of Transportation manages the sanitary sewer system separte from the Plant. Crews maintain the sanitary sewer systems by regularly monitoring the cleaning sewage blockages, mostly caused by fats, oils, and grease.

For more information, visit the City of San José sanitary sewer page.

STORMWATER
Outdoor water from streets and yards drains into local creeks and rivers without being cleaned. The Plant does not collect or treat stormwater.

For more information, visit the City of San José stormwater page.

Participate in the Plant Master Plan process:

• View the introductory video
• Subscribe to receive regular project updates
• View the land use alternatives
• Attend the next Community Advisory Group meeting
• Submit your input and ideas
• Attend the next community workshop
• Sign up for a free Plant tour