Sewer
We provide sewer services for the City of Oneonta. Wastewater created by residences, schools, churches, hospitals, businesses, and industrial establishments must ultimately be returned to receiving waters or to the land. It is treated at our wastewater treatment plant that has a treatment capacity of 2.2 million gallons per day. During fiscal year 2021, the Oneonta wastewater plant collected and treated over 366 million gallons of wastewater.
Property Owner Responsibilities
Property owners are responsible for maintaining sewer components located on private property, including:
- The sewer service line from the home or building to the connection with the main line
- Cleanouts located in the yard or near the home
- Grinder pumps or private lift systems (if installed)
- Any plumbing or sewer piping within the property boundary
Signs of a Private Property Issue
In many cases, sewer issues originate from the service line located on private property. Some common signs include:
- A backup occurring in only one sink, toilet, or drain in the home
- Slow draining fixtures in a specific area of the house
- Sewage backing up from a cleanout in your yard
- Gurgling sounds from drains or toilets when water is used
- Wet or soggy areas in the yard near the sewer line route
If these issues occur, it is often best to contact a licensed plumber to inspect the service line and cleanout on your property.
Important Information for New Homeowners
When purchasing a home, the subdivision developer, builder, or real estate agent should provide information about the location of sewer cleanouts, shutoffs, and any private sewer equipment associated with the property. If you are unsure where these components are located, you may wish to contact your builder, developer, plumber, or home inspector.

