There are areas within the Ottumwa City Limits where multiple households are served by a private, common sewer line that may extend some distance before connecting with a public sewer. Private sewers are the responsibility of the property owners and are not maintained by the City of Ottumwa. It is not uncommon for property owners to be unaware that they are connected to a private sewer line.
To determine if your home is connected into a public or private sewer main, please contact the City Engineering Department at (641) 683-0680.