City of San Diego – Public Utilities Department

The City of San Diego’s Public Utilities Department, Wastewater Collection Division, plays a critical role in protecting public health and supporting the region’s infrastructure by managing a large and complex wastewater system that serves a population of approximately 2.3 million people. The system consists of an extensive network of 2,986.77 miles of gravity sewers that transport wastewater efficiently across varied terrain, along with 113 force mains that provide the pressure needed to move flow in challenging areas. In addition, the division maintains roughly 266,000 laterals that connect individual properties to the public system, ensuring reliable service throughout the city. To support continuous operations, 82 pump stations help convey wastewater to treatment facilities, collectively handling an impressive average daily flow of 151 million gallons per day. Together, these components demonstrate the scale and importance of the division’s mission to manage wastewater safely, effectively, and sustainably.