Quail Valley Sewer Conversion: What to Do With Your Septic Tank

Quail Valley has been working toward sewer service for years because of its history of failing septic systems. Eastern Municipal Water District (EMWD) has been building sewer lines to parts of the neighborhood. If your street is getting sewer, here's what to expect for the septic tank in your yard.

1. Find out if and when your street is included

EMWD announces project areas and schedules. Check EMWD's Quail Valley project updates or call them to confirm whether your home is in a current phase. Many Quail Valley homes are not in the first phases and will stay on septic for some time.

2. Connect the house to the new sewer line

A licensed plumber or contractor runs a new line from your house to the sewer connection at the street. That work generally needs a permit and inspection. Your contractor or EMWD can tell you what applies to your property.

3. Properly abandon the old septic tank

An unused tank can't just be left as is. It's usually pumped out completely, then removed, or crushed and filled so it can't collapse or hold water. Riverside County Department of Environmental Health sets the abandonment requirements, so confirm them before work starts. A septic crew can handle the pumping and abandonment in one visit.

Still on septic? Keep it healthy until then

Quail Valley's rocky ground and shallow soil are hard on drain fields, especially in wet winters. Until your home connects, keep the tank pumped on schedule and act on warning signs like soggy ground or slow drains. See septic service in Quail Valley or call for emergency service if sewage is surfacing.

Sources: EMWD Quail Valley sewer project; Santa Ana Regional Water Quality Control Board, Resolution R8-2020-0004.