“Defects” means cracks, broken pipe, crushed pipe, open or offset joints, root intrusion or other imperfection in a sanitary system pipe which can potentially allow entry of ground water into the sanitary sewer system. Defects shall also include direct connections as defined in this section.

“Direct connections” means connections of foundation or roof drains, or similar conduits to the sewer lateral or main line, which may allow entry of storm water drainage, surface drainage, or ground water into the sanitary sewer system.

“Grace period” means six months beginning from the date of the notice of defect. The city may, but is not required to, make incentives available during the grace period to encourage property owners to replace defective private sewer laterals. Penalty assessments shall begin at the end of the grace period. A three-month extension period may be requested by the property owner and determined on a case-by-case basis by the council.

“Lateral” means any side lateral off a sewer main line which is in the public right-of-way or easement, operated and maintained by the city and to which a private service lateral (or building sewer) connects or may connect.

“Lateral preventive and corrective maintenance” means those activities required to preserve or restore functional operation and the free-flowing condition of sanitary sewer laterals. These activities include, but are not limited to, inspection, root and blockage removal and cleaning. The city is authorized to require the removal of any tree or vegetation planted on private property that has the potential to have a detrimental effect on public sewage collection lines.

“Lateral structural maintenance” means those construction, pipe repair, and pipe replacement activities required to correct defects and preserve the structural integrity and watertight condition of sanitary sewer laterals.

“Private service lateral” means that portion of the sanitary sewer system extending from the street right-of-way or public easement line to a residence or building. (Ord. 380 § 1, 2004).