Hydro Jetting in Highland, CA

Highland lines

Highland sits at the southern base of the San Bernardino Mountains and grew out of citrus groves and the railroads. Its housing spans several decades: about 44 percent of homes were built before 1980, the median build year is 1983, and the 1980s and 1990s were the biggest building decades. That means a mix of older cast iron and clay lines in established areas such as the Palm Avenue historic district and plastic drain pipe in later subdivisions.

East Valley Water District is the water agency named in city documents and provides sewer collection where it is available. City plan-check rules require structures to connect to sewer where available, subject to EVWD review. So most Highland laterals run to an EVWD main, and the part on your property is yours to maintain.

Older citrus-era lots often have mature trees, and roots are drawn to the moisture around clay joints. In the newer tracts the pipe itself holds up well, but grease from kitchens and wipes flushed down toilets build a lining that narrows the pipe a little more each year. Jetting handles both cases, which is why it is the default tool for a Highland main line that keeps closing up. A camera look first is wise on any line installed before the 1980s.

Picking the right method

Signs to act on

• Toilets that gurgle or rise when other water drains
• Drains slowing again soon after cleaning
• Root fibers on a cable
• Damp ground or odor around the cleanout

Seasonal timing

Foothill neighborhoods see more frost than the valley floor, so outdoor cleanouts and exposed piping in shaded spots are worth checking in winter. Heavy storms can show up weak points in older laterals. If a camera finds damage, permits come from the City of Highland Building & Safety Division; the permit counter is (909) 864-8732 ext. 232.