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1. Who is responsible for clearing/repairing sewage lines when they are blocked or damaged?

Wastewater Collections Systems subsection of Utilities is responsible for maintaining the main sewer pipeline, which is the major artery that carries wastewater from homes and businesses to the wastewater treatment plant. Las Cruces Utilities is responsible for service lines between the sewer collection main to the clean-out on private property if the clean-out is located within 10 feet of the property line. If there are no clean-outs or the clean-out is located more than 10 feet inside the property, the sewer service line is the property owner's responsibility.

2. I need to find the clean-out to my home. What is this and where do I find it?

Clean-outs are pipes fitted with a closed cap, which provide access to your sewer service drainage pipes so they can be cleaned or inspected for damage or blockage. They are located near the front of the home or on the side. Not all homes have clean-outs. If you cannot locate them yourself, your plumber can help.

3. Are clean-outs the same as stub-outs?

No, stub-outs are pipes between the main sewer line and the private property line. Your plumber will connect your home's sewer service line to the City's stub-out.

4. There is dirty, sewer water coming out of my clean-out. What should I do?

Please call a plumber to clear the stoppage. If you or the plumber suspect the problem goes beyond your property line, please call Utilities Emergency Dispatch at 575-526-0500 so we may respond.

5. There is a strong sewer smell in the air. Is there anything you can do?

Please call Utilities Emergency Dispatch at 575-526-0500 so we can take a reading of gases that may be leaking from the sewer manholes. We can also inspect the main line in your area to make sure it is flowing properly. We will flush and clean that section as a precaution.

6. Can we dump septic sewage from Recreational Vehicles (RV's) at the Wastewater facilities?

No, Jacob Hands Wastewater Treatment Facility, East Mesa Wastewater Reclamation Facility, and West Mesa Wastewater only receive municipal and industrial sewage. However, there are several truck stops and campgrounds that will allow you to use their facilities for a small charge.

7. What is the total daily average sewage flow received at the three Wastewater facilities?

Approximately 10 Millions of Gallons per Day (MGD) is the daily combined average flow.

8. Where can we pick up compost?

Small quantities in buckets can be picked up at Jacob Hands Wastewater Treatment Facility located at 2851 West Amador, Las Cruces from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m, Monday through Friday. Large quantities, such as a truck load, require an appointment by calling 575-528-3597. Our staff will discuss your needs to recommend what quantity would be most appropriate.

9. What is the compost made of?

Class "A" compost is generated from its highly successful and environmentally friendly biosolids to compost conversion program whose guidelines are based on local studies. They include standard handling procedures, as if applying a fertilizer. Think about it like manure from cows; compost is from humans.

10. Is the compost safe to handle?

The compost meets or exceeds all Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) class "A" requirements for safe handling and food crop applications.