Oceanside Water Pollution Control Plant

The Oceanside Water Pollution Control Plant is a wastewater treatment facility in Oceanside, California that processes large volumes of water daily through underground pipes and multiple treatment stages. After cleaning, the water is discharged far into the Pacific Ocean, enabling a functioning system for the city to handle its sewage.

This facility opened in 1994 to replace an older treatment plant and meet federal water quality regulations. The shift represented a major update to the region's municipal sewage system.

The plant demonstrates San Francisco's commitment to environmental protection by managing both sewage and rainwater through an integrated combined sewer system.

The facility sits between two water areas near the coast and is easily accessible from land when exploring this part of the city. Keep in mind that this is a working industrial site, so visiting opportunities may be limited or require advance arrangement.

Much of this facility was built underground inside a hollowed hill, with the roof engineered to support significant weight. This underground design is an interesting example of how infrastructure facilities are integrated into the landscape in crowded coastal areas.

Location: California

Operator: San Francisco Public Utilities Commission

Address: Great Highway

Website: https://sfwater.org

GPS coordinates: 37.72760,-122.50500

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:24