The City of Pacifica is Conducting a Smoke Test of the

Sanitary Sewer System

Work crews from Total Flow, Inc. and Collection System crew will be in various areas from the week of September 19, 2022, to the end of November 2022 conducting smoke testing in the neighborhoods of Linda Mar, Pedro Point, and Park Pacifica. All personnel will have proper identification and vehicles marked.

SMOKE TESTING is a standard method of detecting sewer defects and storm water cross connections to the sanitary sewer (SS) system.  Smoke testing consists of placing a high-capacity blower on top of a SS manhole and forcing “smoke” down into the sewer system. Under pressure from the blower, the smoke travels through the sewer system and escapes through any connection, cracks, leaks, etc., along the way.  This quickly reveals sources of Inflow and Infiltration (I&I) within the project area. The City’s objective is to remove storm water sources from the sanitary sewer system, which prevents sewer overflow, keeps wastewater treatment costs and sanitary sewer rates low, and protects the environment.

The smoke you see coming from the vent stacks on houses or holes in the ground is 100% NON-TOXIC, NON-HAZARDOUS, NON-STAINING, HAS NO ODOR, WHITE TO GRAY IN COLOR AND CREATES NO FIRE HAZARD. It is specifically formulated for this kind of testing and is not harmful to plants, animals or humans. The smoke should not enter your building, but if it does, it will be a distinct odor and should only last a few minutes with proper ventilation.

Both the City’s Police Department and North County Fire Department will be made aware of the smoke testing project areas and schedule. Residents who will be part of the smoke testing project will be given Reminder Notices at least 24-72 hours prior to work in their area and will be provided instructions for preparation of their home for the testing.

The information gathered during the smoke testing project will be used to create a prioritized plan to reduce I&I impacts to the sanitary sewer system. Sewer defects will exist on both public and private property and will need to be corrected in a timely manner. After the smoke testing is complete, notices will be sent to those property owners that will need to make corrections. Often times, it can be as simple as removing a connected roof downspout and letting it drain above ground, or replacing a broken or missing lateral cleanout cap in your yard. City will assist homeowners in determining the best approach in disconnecting I&I sources and rerouting storm drainage.  

We appreciate your patience and understanding and will make every effort to minimize the inconvenience or disruptions this project may have on you.

For further information, please contact:

Jeff Blum, Total Flow Inc at 341-221-0151 or

Rey Mendez, Acting Collection System Manager, at 650-738-4660 or rmendez@pacifica.gov.