Glossary

1. Right of Way

Streets and sidewalks. Sewer mains typically run beneath the right of way, usually down the center of the street. An Encroachment Permit is required to perform work within the right of way.*

2. Property Line

The boundary between a private property and the right of way, or another private property. A private sewer lateral typically extends beyond the property line and into the public right of way.

3. Sewer Main

A larger pipe that usually runs beneath public streets and takes sewage to treatment facilities. Properties connect to the sewer main via sewer lateral.

4. Cleanout

An access point for a sewer lateral, usually located near the property line.

5. Lower Lateral

The portion of the sewer lateral that runs between the sewer main and a property line cleanout. A Sewer Inspection Permit is required to perform work on the lower lateral, among other things.

6. Upper Lateral

The portion of the sewer lateral that runs between a property line cleanout and the rest of the property. A Building Permit may be required to perform work on the upper lateral.*

7. Sewer Lateral

The pipes that connect a private property to the sewer main. In sewer districts managed by San Mateo County, the property owner is responsible for maintaining and repairing their sewer lateral, including the sections that extend into the public right of way.

Glossary (Continued)

Sewer Inspection Permit (SIP)

A permit issued by the Sewer Division of the Department of Public Works. A SIP is required to perform work on the lower lateral, among other things. See our Permits & Plan Reviews page for more details.

Encroachment Permit

A permit issued by the Roads Division of the Department of Public Works. An Encroachment Permit is required to perform work within the right of way.*

Learn more about getting an Encroachment Permit

Building Permit

A permit issued by the Planning & Building Department. A Building Permit may be required to perform work on the upper lateral and the rest of the property.*

Learn more about getting a Building Permit

Incorporated

An area within the County that is also within a town or city. The local town or city has jurisdiction and provides services in these areas.

Unincorporated

An area within the County that is not part of a town or city. The County has jurisdiction and provides services in these areas.

*In some cases, an incorporated area may receive sewer service from a County sewer district. If this is the case, you may need permits from both the County and the town/city; check with your local government about the additional types of permits you might need.