Curious where Desert Hot Springs is headed with sewer expansion and how it might impact your next move? If you own a home on septic, or you are eyeing a lot near a planned line, the timing and location of new sewer corridors can shape value, costs, and your renovation or development options. You want clear facts so you can plan with confidence, not surprises. In this guide, you will learn how the Mission Springs Water District’s program works, what it could cost, and where buyers, sellers, and investors can find opportunity. Let’s dive in.
What “sewer corridors” mean in Desert Hot Springs
Sewer expansion corridors are areas where the Mission Springs Water District, or MSWD, is planning or installing mains so many properties can connect. MSWD forms property‑based Assessment Districts to finance public improvements and move neighborhoods off septic. You can review maps, ballot records, and status updates on MSWD’s Assessment District pages and the AD18 project hub. MSWD’s AD portal and the AD18 information page are the best places to start.
MSWD selects project areas based on factors like density, proximity to existing sewer, and groundwater protection priorities. When an AD forms through a property owner ballot, the district advances design and construction in stages. MSWD communicates notices, records assessments, and provides parcel‑level tools to check status through its site.
Current capacity and buildout
Desert Hot Springs depends on two key treatment facilities. The Allan L. Horton plant processes about 2.0 million gallons per day. The new Nancy Wright Regional Water Reclamation Facility adds roughly 1.5 million gallons per day and became operational in 2024, supported by significant state grant funding. You can read the program history and funding details on MSWD’s history page and the regional facility page.
As of October 12, 2025, that added capacity is a major enabler for new corridors and connections. MSWD reports its AD program has already made more than 4,500 parcels sewer‑ready and installed more than 33 miles of line. See MSWD’s summary of outcomes and groundwater goals on the Assessment Districts overview and the Groundwater Quality Protection page.
How projects are funded and what it costs you
Most expansion work is financed through Assessment Districts. Property owners vote by ballot, weighted by dollar value, on whether to form an AD. If approved, the AD finances public improvements and places an assessment on participating parcels, while grants can reduce costs for the overall program. MSWD explains the ballot process and timelines on its Assessment Districts page and AD‑specific updates on the AD18 page.
Costs for individual owners typically include:
- A parcel assessment if you are inside an AD benefit area.
- One‑time connection and private lateral costs from the house to the main.
- Ongoing monthly sewer service charges once connected.
For current rate trends, review MSWD’s proposed multi‑year sewer rate adjustments on the Rates page. MSWD’s fee and connection authority is outlined in Title 6 of its sewer ordinance. You can read it here: MSWD Title 6 Sewer.
Where the opportunity shows up
- Marketability for sellers and buyers. Many buyers prefer municipal sewer because it reduces maintenance and removes common septic‑related contingencies at sale. Industry guidance notes septic systems can add steps and potential limits during transactions, which sewer connections often avoid. See a refresher on septic permitting considerations in real estate from the NC Real Estate Commission’s bulletin. Local price impact varies by neighborhood, so rely on current comps.
- Development and renovation options. Sewer access can unlock higher density or more flexible use in areas previously limited by septic, subject to city zoning and permits. To confirm availability and conditions for a specific parcel, request an official MSWD Will‑Serve letter.
- Risk reduction and long‑term stability. MSWD’s program is designed to protect groundwater by removing septic systems that can release nitrates and pathogens. Learn more about the local program focus on the Groundwater Quality Protection page and general groundwater risks from the EPA’s private wells resource.
Key tradeoffs and timing to plan for
Upfront costs and connection work vary by parcel. Depth to the main, paving restoration, and existing plumbing all affect your budget. MSWD can provide parcel‑specific estimates and timing once your area is in design or construction. Start with the AD18 information page for a model of how balloting, notices, and phasing have worked.
Timelines are multi‑year in many cases. Funding awards, design, environmental review, and construction sequencing all affect when you can connect. Plan for both a one‑time connection budget and ongoing monthly sewer charges. Review MSWD’s Rates page for current figures and proposed adjustments.
A practical checklist for DHS properties
- Confirm parcel status. Check MSWD’s Assessment District resources and AD pages, including AD18, for maps, ballots, and notices.
- Request a Will‑Serve letter. Ask MSWD for a Will‑Serve letter that spells out availability, conditions, and any deadlines.
- Verify recorded obligations. Look for any recorded Notice of Assessment on title or with the Riverside County Recorder.
- Ask for cost and schedule. Request a parcel‑specific connection estimate and understand where your subarea sits in the construction sequence.
- Model total cost of ownership. Include one‑time connection and ongoing sewer rates in your buy box or pricing strategy.
If you are exploring a remodel, an AD‑area purchase, or a lot split, these steps help you move forward with clear expectations and fewer surprises.
Ready to talk through your options in Desert Hot Springs? Get local guidance, current comps, and a practical game plan for your timeline and budget. Reach out to Bryan Dearden to discuss a property, connect with MSWD resources, and map your next steps.
FAQs
How do I check if my Desert Hot Springs property is in a sewer assessment district?
- Use MSWD’s resources for Assessment District maps and AD pages, including the AD18 information page, or contact MSWD Public Affairs or Engineering with your address or APN.
Who pays for new sewer mains in Desert Hot Springs?
- In areas that form an Assessment District, the AD finances public improvements and places an assessment on participating parcels, while owners still pay connection fees and later monthly charges; see MSWD’s Assessment Districts overview and Title 6 Sewer ordinance.
What does it cost to connect a Desert Hot Springs home to sewer?
- Costs vary by distance to the main, site conditions, and any paving restoration, so ask MSWD for an itemized estimate and review current rates for ongoing charges.
Does sewer access increase a home’s value in Desert Hot Springs?
- Many buyers prefer sewer, which can reduce septic‑related contingencies and improve marketability, though price impact varies by neighborhood and comps; see transaction considerations in the NC Real Estate Commission’s bulletin.
Does sewer expansion automatically allow new development in Desert Hot Springs?
- No, sewer capacity is necessary but not sufficient, since projects must still meet city zoning, permitting, and MSWD Will‑Serve conditions; start by requesting an MSWD Will‑Serve letter for parcel‑specific guidance.
