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IMPORTANT SEWER SYSTEM NOTICE Do Not Flush Non-Flushable Items – Help Protect Our Pumps and Prevent Backups

July 02, 2026

Dear LCWD Customers,

 

On June 29, 2026, district staff removed what appeared to be the head of a Swiffer mop from a pump at our sewer ponds lift station. This foreign object caused a clog and required manual removal to restore proper operation.

 

Our sewer pumps and collection system are designed to handle only human waste and toilet paper. Items like mop heads, wipes, rags, and other debris can wrap around impellers, damage equipment, lead to costly repairs, sewer backups into homes, or overflows. These incidents increase maintenance costs that are ultimately borne by all ratepayers.

 

What Should NOT Be Flushed Down Toilets or Drains:

 

  • Cleaning products: Swiffer mop heads, disinfectant wipes, cleaning wipes, “flushable” wipes (they do not break down like toilet paper)
  • Baby wipes, makeup wipes, or any moist towelettes
  • Paper towels, facial tissues, napkins (other than toilet paper)
  • Feminine hygiene products, diapers, cotton balls/swabs, dental floss
  • Rags, towels, clothing, or cloth items
  • Grease, oils, fats (FOG), food scraps, coffee grounds
  • Medications, paints, chemicals, kitty litter, cigarette butts, condoms, or any other trash

 

Remember: Only flush human waste and toilet paper. Your toilet is not a trash can.

 

Proper Disposal:

  • Place non-flushable items in the trash.
  • For fats/oils/grease: Let them cool and dispose in the trash (or use a container for recycling where available).
  • Share this information with all household members and guests.

By following these guidelines, you help prevent clogs, protect our infrastructure, reduce repair costs, and maintain reliable sewer service for the entire community. Thank you for your cooperation and for being good stewards of our shared system.

 

If you have questions or observe issues with your sewer service, please contact the district office at (530) 278-6476 or districtadmin@lcwd1.org.

 

Sincerely,

Kody Smith

General Manager
Lassen County Waterworks District No. 1