How much does it cost to connect to a city sewer?
How much does it cost to connect to a city sewer?
$1,000 – $15,000 average total cost
Average cost of connecting to a city sewer
Once the plumber installs the sewer line piping for your home, you will need to pay to hook it up to the city's sewer system. The cost to connect to city sewer ranges from $1,000 to $15,000, depending on the pipe material, house size, and your city's current capacity. Prices vary widely from one municipality to another.
| National Average Cost | $8,000 |
| Minimum Cost | $250 |
| Maximum Cost | $55,000 |
| Average Range | $1,000 to $15,000 |
Cost to connect to city sewer line by material
The cost to connect to a sewer system does not include installing the rest of the piping in or under your home. Sewer line installation costs $1,600 to $7,200 on average, or $40 to $180 per linear foot, depending on the material.
You may be able to choose which material you use for your sewer pipes, but some local regulations restrict the use of PVC and other materials, so be sure to ask what kind of pipes you're allowed to use before starting.
| Pipe material | Cost per linear foot* |
|---|---|
| Cast-iron | $20 – $75 |
| Copper | $30 – $80 |
| PEX | $2 – $10 |
| PVC | $3 – $8 |
| ABS | $3 – $11 |
*Materials only
Cast-iron: Cast-iron sewer pipes cost $20 and $75 per linear foot for materials alone. Cast-iron used to be popular but tends to rust, so it's not used as much anymore.
Copper: Copper pipes cost $30 to $80 per linear foot for materials alone. Copper is lighter than iron and more durable than plastic. However, copper pipes often freeze in the winter and aren't the best option for acidic water or well water systems either.
PEX: PEX sewer pipes cost $2 and $10 per linear foot and are made of polyethylene. This material is cheaper and more flexible than copper, and it also performs better in heat and cold than PVC.
PVC: Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) piping costs $3 and $8 per linear foot. This material is easy to install, budget-friendly, and lasts longer than other materials. However, it's not as durable.
ABS: ABS sewer pipes cost $3 to $11 per linear foot and are made with recycled plastic resin. This material is better for extremely cold climates but not hot climates.
Some states like California have banned ABS because it doesn't endure heat well. Always consult with a professional and check local rules before installing piping.
What affects the cost to connect to a city sewer
The following factors may affect the total cost to hook up your sewer line to the city sewer system:
Distance from main line: Most residential homes are built close to the city's main sewer line, so city sewer contractors typically base their rates on up to 40 linear feet of piping. Rural homes almost always cost more to connect because they're farther from the main line.
Home type: Your housing type may influence the sewer connection. If you're building a single-family home, you're responsible for the total cost. If the property is a townhome or condo, then the HOA may cover the connection cost.
Permits: Plumbing permits cost $30 to $500, depending on local rates. Your plumber will usually obtain permits for you and include them in their estimate.
Digging method: Your costs will also depend on how the contractors install the piping:
Traditional trenching costs $5 to $12 per linear foot, depending on the depth and whether there are any obstacles they'll need to remove.
Trenchless digging or directional boring costs $10 to $30 per linear foot. This method uses heavy equipment to make an underground conduit quickly without damaging landscaping or driveways and walkways.
Backflow preventer: Installing a backflow preventer costs $200 to $1,000 on average with installation. This valve keeps the wastewater from flowing backward back into your clean water. Many areas require backflow preventers, usually in homes with sprinkler systems.
Since connecting to a sewer system can be costly, some cities subsidize the cost for low-income families. Ask your local municipality authorities if there's any assistance available.
Labor
Most plumbers charge $75 to $150 per hour, depending on local rates and their experience level. If the plumber doesn't have the manpower or equipment to complete the trenching you require, you may need additional contractors.
Converting a septic tank
A septic tank is an underground sewage tank not connected to a local sewer system. Septic tanks are a great option for rural homes because they cost less than installing hundreds of feet of pipes. However, you need to pump them every 3 to 5 years. Pumping a septic tank costs $300 to $700.
Converting from a septic system to a traditional sewer system costs about $3,000 to $15,000 on average and involves the following steps:
Decommissioning the tank by filling it with sand or removing the tank altogether
Installing a new main sewer line
Connecting to the local sewer system
City sewer FAQs
Do I have to connect to city sewer?
No, you do not have to connect to a city sewer system, although it is the simpler and more convenient option for most homeowners. If you're in a remote location, you can choose to install a septic tank instead.
How long does it take to connect to the city sewer?
Connecting to a city sewer system takes 1 to 5 days, depending on the number of obstacles and the digging method. If your pipes need repairs or the contractors need to remove landscaping, it will take longer. Trenchless lines take less time than digging into the ground by hand.
Do I need permission to connect to a city sewer line?
Yes, you need permission from local municipality leaders before you can connect to a city sewer. You can apply on your local water authority's website or over the phone.
Who installs sewer lines?
Plumbers usually install and connect sewer lines. However, if the project involves any landscaping or excavation, they may need to recommend another contractor to handle it.
Getting estimates from sewer service companies
Before choosing a sewer service company near you, follow these important steps:
Get at least three estimates to compare.
Read reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
Choose a licensed, bonded, insured company with 5+ years of experience.
Avoid suspiciously low quotes, which often indicate poor-quality work.
Get an estimate, contract, and warranty in writing before they start.
Never pay in full before they start working.
Questions to ask contractors
Make sure you hire a high-quality company by asking the following questions:
How long have you been hooking up sewer lines?
Do you have any certifications for this kind of work?
Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?
How long will it take to hook up the pipes to my city's system?
Will you handle any permits I need?
What type of pipe material do you recommend?
Are there any pipe materials I'm not allowed to use here?
Does your estimate include labor and cleanup?
What other fees should I expect?
Will you need to remove any trees or landscaping for this?
Does this area offer any reimbursement or subsidies for connecting to their sewer system?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.