. Approximately a third of Washington homes use septic systems for wastewater treatment. About us; Jobs - Work@Health; Public health connection blog; BienestarWA blog (espaol) Request public records; Rule Making; Topics A-Z; Ver contenido in Espaol; Browse publications; Contact Us. Many older systems may vary in their configuration and construction. The final step to evaluating your system is completing the appropriate Skagit County Health Department On-Site Sewage System (OSS) Homeowner Report. Using a garbage disposal on a septic system is not recommended. As of Sept. 1, homeowners with septic systems in every Washington county have access to affordable financing for septic repair and replacement. Think of them like a sewage treatment plant, only much smaller. Food Safety, Land Development, Environmental Hazards, Water Recreation & Public Schools . see the Washington State Department of . There are many different types of systems. Options for inspecting your system include: Pump out your septic tank when needed. Most of the on-site sewage system (OSS) records including site designs, historic inspection reports, record drawings (also known as as-builts) in King County records are available online. A properly functioning septic system helps remove these pollutants so well water and nearby surface water doesn't get contaminated. Properly operating and maintaining your system is required by State and local regulations to ensure that our wastewater is not creating a source of pollution to local waterways or causing disease from contact with contaminated water. A leaky toilet can waste hundreds of gallons of water a day. Landscaping in and around your septic system is important. Environmental Health Code, Chapter 1, General Provisions, Environmental Health Code, Chapter 2, On-Site Sewage, Environmental Health Code, Chapter 3,Water Regulation, Appeals Process of Orders and Decisions of the Health Officer. These gases can be odorless and may deprive you of oxygen. It is likely that methane will also be found in your septic system. Now with statewide access, our Clean Water Loan is poised to support thousands of new households and contribute to improving shared water resources across the Evergreen State,. Old homes may not have a septic permit or the as-built may be unreliable. This document is called an "as-built," and it is a drawing of the location of your system when it was inspected by our office. Directing surface water away from your tanks and drainfield will help your drainfield function as well as possible. RSS Guidance for properties with multiple structures. Volume of solids in wastewater. see the Washington State Department of . Commercial properties and non-owner occupied properties may also qualify. OSS records There are many different types of systems. Water usage is likely the biggest contributor to a failed septic system. Any exceptions to the above conditions must have written approval of Skagit County Environmental Public Health staff. Hygienic practices mentioned here will help you protect yourself. Covering the eyes, mouth, and any open cuts is particularly important. Were you able to find what you were looking for today? Training of the homeowner by a Skagit County certified O&M provider or attendance at a Washington State On-Site Sewage Association (WOSSA) or similarly approved training class on pumps is required. Baby wipes, cleaning wipes, or any moist towelettes. Interested homeowners can apply for a Clean Water Loan by visiting the Craft3 website. OSS evaluations must be performed and filed with the public health at least once every three years for all systems consisting solely of a septic tank and gravity drainfield, and annually for all other system types. Regardless of the method you use to request this document, you will need to provide the following information: Physical address of the system or road name, Requestor phone number: (So we can call you if there is a question or need for more information.). Directory Septic Application Turnaround Times Tacoma, WA 98418-6813 (253) 649-1500 (800) 330-1844 TDD (253) 649-1400. It should be noted that at the time of a property transfer, a licensed O&M Specialist must conduct the inspection. Free viewers are required for some of the attached documents.They can be downloaded by clicking on the icons below. That way, they can perform any required maintenance while on site. System Summary Many things you do in your yard or on your property can affect the systems function and performance. Once you submit your quiz and contact information, we will have a record of you completing Septics 101. Local landscapers or nurseries can help you select plants that are appropriate for the areas around your septic system. Repair leaky faucets and plumbing fixtures. outlet baffle, and 3) distribution box (if present) within 30 days of inspection. After completing your inspection and necessary maintenance, you should shower or bathe, even if you dont feel like youve been exposed to sewage. A Pressure Distribution system will have all of the following major components, each of which should be thoroughly inspected: plumbing; septic tank(s); pump tank; and a drainfield. Please note this is the number of our answering service, and you will receive a call back from Public Health. Include the parcel number and street address and we will search our files for the drawings. These gases can sink or rise, displacing oxygen that you need to breathe. Four major factors influence how often you need to pump your septic: Practice water conservation. Search for previous service and inspection reports online. Some are simple, using only a tank and a drain field, and others are more complex, requiring pumps, filters, blowers, UV lights, or specially designed materials. It is also wise to keep a record of maintenance on the system. Brochures, OSS records Older septic tanks might not be sized appropriately for your home, especially if your home has been remodeled and is now larger. Adam Zimmerman, President and CEO of Craft3. Common in rural areas without centralized sewer systems, septic systems are underground wastewater treatment structures that you own and operate. Sewage related records are typically marked with an "SWG". There are many different types of systems. It does not mean that you do not have a septic system or that it is failed or illegal. Applications, permits and fees, Buying and selling properties Everything you put down your drain or into the toilet will end up in your septic system. Please arrive no later than 3:30 p.m. Using gloves will minimize your exposure risk. While trouble-shooting, water can be used to simulate normal water flow through the septic system. Maintenance View your operations and maintenance report on onlineRMEOn Site Septic formsReport a public health concern, 2023 Clark County Washington Make sure the nursery understands you need plants that are shallow rooted and require little watering. Using a garbage disposal will increase the amount of solids entering the septic tank, requiring more frequent pumping. Directory Septic Application Turnaround Times Septic Permitting Another way to dispose of grease is to let the grease cool in the pan, where it can be scraped off using a paper towel. Harsh chemicals including acids, bases, pesticides, herbicides, oils, paints, and varnishes should never be drained into any fixture that leads to your septic system. Altering the biological balance may discourage the natural proliferation and growth of bacteria found in your system and will not allow for normal and productive decomposition of the wastes you put into your septic system. Manager of Healthy People & Communities. Operation and maintenance of your home septic system begins with your actions inside the home. When a failing septic system is fixed, the benefits go beyond the home. There is a 25 gallon / household / month limit, for free! Phone: : 360-385-9444. Fortunately, help is now available in every Washington county. Soil over your system should be slightly mounded to help surface water runoff. Discharging effluent onto the ground's surface or into surface and ground water is against Washington State law. If you have been watering lawns and other landscaping on your property, your readings may not accurately reflect all of the water processed by your septic system. Find a certified O&M provider. Are You Prepared, Severe Weather, Wildfires, Vulnerable Populations & Limited English Proficiency. As-built drawings can be obtained at the Skagit County Online Septic Search. For a typical household, septic tanks are usually pumped every three to five years. Remove the equipment and tools from the soap and water mixture. Site Sewage It is important to keep the solids, called sludge, from building up and coming near the outlet baffles of the system if this happens, solids could plug the pipe to the drainfield, or even worse, clog the drainfield. Since 2008, Washington state law and Island County code have required that all septic systems be inspected at the time of property transfer. Combined, these systems treat 154 million gallons of wastewater annually. . Create a Website Account - Manage notification subscriptions, save form progress and more. The longevity of your on-site septic system relies heavily on the way that you care for it. NOTE:Before 1975, permits were not required by law. A system where there is no record drawing, no access, or if location is difficult to determine, may require a homeowner to hire a licensed O&M Specialist to assist them. If youd like us to call you, please provide a phone number. This system is called Pump to Gravity Distribution. The On-site Sewage Program is responsible for evaluating site conditions for onsite septic systems, characteristics of soil in test pits, setting permitting conditions, and issuing permits for septic systems. Reducing water use will limit the demand you place on your septic system. Check your OSS Application status The probe can be used to identify the size and orientation of the tank (rectangle vs. round, 4 X 8 foot, etc). Let the equipment soak as needed. Scaling, like on a map, allows you to find things accurately. The septic tank will provide room for the solids to settle out and begin to decompose. Water coming from roof drains, driveways or other surfaces should be directed away from your septic system. Regular evaluation of your On- Site Septic System (OSS) is required by State (WAC 246-272A-0270) and local (SCC 12.05.160) health regulations. 411 N 5th St Shelton WA 98584 (360) 427-9670 . See Ecology's. While exposure to raw sewage is readily evident, exposure to residues from contaminated equipment or clothing may not be apparent, yet can still result in illness. Please arrive no later than 3:30 p.m. A "how to" guide is available on the online permitting portal when applying for a septic permit. Remember, the soil where your drainfield is located, is capable of disposing of only so much liquid. It Know where the system is and keep a diagram of its location. While leaning over the system, be sure to recognize that gases may have accumulated around where you are breathing. The drainfield is where effluent is discharged into the environment. Your septic permit will include an as-built or record drawing; this is a drawing that shows where your septic system is located and what parts or components make up your septic system. Septic tank size. Grease can also clog the pores in your soil, damaging your drainfield and may lead to system failure. Related Links Mailing Address 615 Sheridan Street Port Townsend, WA . Health Programs, Healthy Communities, WIC, Nurse/Family Partnership. On-site Sewage Systems Chapter 246-272A WAC. The drainfield is the final and the most downstream component in your septic system. A septic system, also known as an on-site sewage system (OSS), stores, treats, and disposes of the things you flush and send down drains. In the plumbing, liquids will carry solid materials out of your dwelling towards downstream components. . Grass is the best cover. Septic Resources The Purpose Of On-Site Septic System (OSS) Program Is To Ensure Proper Treatment And Disposal Of Wastewater To Protect Our Drinking Water And The Environment. Well reports also contain information about location, owner name, driller name, and the quantity of water a well produces. Before you plant a garden, landscape your yard, construct a building, or install a pool, check on the location of your septic system and replacement area. How to take care of septic systems Tools can be used to further minimize your exposure to the sewage contained in your septic system. It is a 40 minute narrated presentation followed by a 20 question quiz on septic system basics. If at any time during the evaluation process you have questions, do not hesitate to call public health staff for assistance at (360) 416-1500 or e-mail eh@co.skagit.wa.us. Some household products are advertised as septic safe. [Ver este comunicado de prensa en Espaol]. Pressure distribution systems are similar to conventional gravity systems, except that only the effluent should flow out of your septic tank and into your pump tank. Prior to using any electrical device (screwdrivers, drills, flashlights, etc. There are a number of things you can do to check for leaks. . Wastewater Rules and Regulations | Washington State Department of Health Wastewater Rules and Regulations Fees Chapter 246-272 WAC, Wastewater and Reclaimed Water Use Fees On-site Sewage Systems Chapter 246-272A WAC, On-Site Sewage Systems Chapter 246-273 WAC, On-Site Sewage Additives WA 98368. Flushing them will increase the need to pump, maintain and repair your system. These areas provide a transmission corridor for viruses and bacteria to enter the body. Some tanks have smaller lids on each end of the tank to allow for inspection of inlet and outlet baffles. Reduce the risk of people getting sick from untreated sewage. French drains, curtain drains, or shallow diversion ditches can help move water out and around your septic system. Thank you for your patience as we continue to update our new website. Expanding the program statewide was made possible with funding support from the state legislature. As of Sept. 1, the Regional On-Site Sewage System Loan Program has expanded state-wide, adding 17 counties to this successful program. Protects the Environment Malfunctioning septic systems release bacteria, viruses, and chemicals that eventually enter streams, rivers, lakes, Puget Sound, and the ocean. Search for your record drawing using the following steps: Some common reasons that record drawings are not available online: If you do not find a record drawing, please send an email to as-built.help@kingcounty.gov. 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Your septic system contains a collection of living organisms that digest and treat household waste. & Development Services, Washington State Department of Healths OSS Program, Do-It-Yourself Septic System Inspection Video, Read the Department of Health Gravity Septic System inspection guide, Fill out the checkist form and return it to Public Health, Department of Health Gravity Septic System inspection guide, Pressure/Pump to Gravity On Site Sewage Summary Report, Check the Washington Department of Labor and Industries to find information about electricians, Skagit Links. They allow for development in outlying communities, help protect groundwater and waterways, and reduce exposure to untreated sewage. Contact information; Hours & location Craft3's Clean Water Loans - Craft3 offers financing for replacement of septic systems in many areas of Washington. By reducing and balancing your use, you can extend the life of your drainfield, decrease the possibility of system failure, and avoid costly repairs. A septic system, also known as an on-site sewage system (OSS), stores, treats, and disposes of the things you flush and send down drains. Plant trees and shrubs away from your septic tank and drainfield to keep roots from growing into your septic system. Established in 2016, the Regional On-Site Sewage System Loan Program has helped nearly 1,200 homeowners repair or replace their septic systems, a value of $26.7 million. The pollutants harm local ecosystems by killing native plants, fish, and shellfish. Never pour cooking oil or grease down the drain. Customer service counter opens at 9:30 a.m. the first and third Thursdays of every month. It is up to you to use whatever techniques you feel necessary to adequately protect yourself from exposure to raw sewage, and to seek medical assistance if you are exposed. Never mix sanitizers! Mason County, WA. However, it can take up to 60 days to fulfill your request. Navigate to the Clark County PropertyInformation Center. Maintaining your system will require the use of your hands to do many things including lifting lids, operating sludge judges, lifting floats, pulling filters, and adjusting valves. Address 7102 W Okanogan Pl Kennewick WA 99336 Phone 509.460.4200 Hours of Operation Monday-Friday The Health District maintains records of existing on-site sewage systems for your convenience. Septic systems use a combination of nature and time-tested technology to treat wastewater from household plumbing produced by bathrooms, kitchen drains, and laundry. It is also recommended the first inspection of any OSS be done professionally. Many of these products can clog your plumbing and septic system. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Total wastewater generated. Household bleach is a very effective sanitizer for killing bacteria and viruses. *: Which best describes your role in visiting our site today? Public Records; Smoke-Free Housing Information; View. They protect your eyes and mouth from the liquids in your septic system. Install flow restrictors on all or select faucets. Proper maintenance is defined in the code as: Your groundwater and Puget Sound lakes, rivers, and beaches benefit, too! An O&M Specialist is going to inspect operational components such as a flow test, a drawdown to verify that timer settings are correct, and a pressure test if applicable. Healthy septic systems are good for your family, your wallet and the environment. For example, "the property is on 30th Avenue between Spruce and Verbena.". A person should never, for any reason, enter the confines of a septic system, especially tanks. As-built: shows location of on-site sewage system Permit: documentation of permitted system Previous Inspections: links to onlineRME.com to show recent operation and maintenance inspections If documents are not available please contact Clark County Public Health at (360) 397-8428. If you have a water meter on your property, you can easily figure out how much water you and your family are using. Treatment component (if applicable) Distribution system. Flow restrictors on showers and other high volume water fixtures can dramatically reduce your consumption of water. Minor septic system issues can turn into big costly problems. Public Records Requests A long piece of rebar can be pounded into the ground to look for a tank. These small bits of ground-up material are often difficult to settle out and these unsettled particles can pass through your septic tank, eventually damaging pumps or clogging the soil beneath your drainfield. Statewide access to this program is a win for homeowners, public health, and clean water. Providers Use a brush to clean the hard to reach portions of the tools. In gravity plumbing, liquids will carry solid materials out of your dwelling towards downstream components. If your system is only a septic tank and drainfield, commonly called a gravity system, you need to inspect it at least once every three years. 400 . Every drip, drop, sprinkle, or spray of water that goes down a shower, sink, toilet, or drain will end up being processed by your septic system. Most household wastes, such as harsh chemicals, paints, and oils can be disposed of at your Chelan-Douglas Health District200 Valley Mall ParkwayEast Wenatchee, WA 98802, Hours9AM - 5PM | Monday - Thursday9AM - 12PM | Friday, After HoursTo report an urgent public health concern call:(509) 886-6499. Terms of Use If you cannot remove the lid, contact a licensed O&M Specialist. SepticSmart EPA offers advice on proper septic care and brochures and factsheets for homeowners. Some gases found in properly functioning septic systems have different densities. A properly functioning septic system will allow for the proper venting of these gases, either through a dwellings plumbing system or through vent pipes located near your septic system. To find out what type of system you have, take a look at your propertys as built records. A typical conventional gravity system will not have any mechanical devices to convey water or material; gravity will do all of the required work. Program Activities Certification program for all septic system installers, pumpers and operations and monitoring specialists Complaint investigation relating to septic systems Education for homeowners and other professionals interested in septic systems Enforcement of state and local codes The goal is to protect public health, to evaluate all septic systems, to identify and repair failing systems, and make records available to the public. Please enable JavaScript in your browser for a better user experience. *: Regional On-Site Sewage System Loan Program, Copyright Washington State Department of Ecology. There may be circumstances where it will be difficult, dangerous, or even impossible for a homeowner to properly evaluate and maintain their OSS by themselves. Most people perceive a slow dripping faucet as nothing more than a nuisance; however, a septic system will be burdened by additional water going down the drain. The Washington state well report (log) viewer, our most popular online resource, allows you to search for and view detailed records of the construction and subsurface characteristics of individual wells. Rinse: Spraying down portions of your septic system may result in exposure to sewage. Departments / Elected . Entry page for Thurston County Environmental Health Septic System Program: Permits, Operational Certificates, Septic System Operation and Maintenance, Septic System Evaluation of Properties for Sale, Rules and Regulations Enforcement, List of Certified Septic Contractors, Low-interest Loan Program . Save you money and extend the life of your system. Privacy Policy The grease laden paper towel can then be disposed of in your trash. 311 Grand Avenue | Bellingham, WA 98225 | Phone: 360-778-5000 [] . Greases can congeal anywhere in your plumbing or septic system. Your local health agency may have a more stringent inspection requirement. Every owner of an on-site sewage system needs to know where their on-site sewage system is located in order to properly maintain it. Due to differences in elevations, on some occasions, a pump is needed to get the sewage to the drainfield. Use water-saving devices such as faucet aerators and high-efficiency toilets, showerheads, dishwashers, and washing machines. As-builts are drawings that oftentimes are drawn to scale or otherwise help describe the location of your septic system. With just a few simple steps, you can protect your septicand avoid costly repairs. Anyone can access those records by searching our online records database. If you do not know where your system is located, you may be able to obtain this information from our offices. It is imperative that you take all necessary precautions to minimize the risk of becoming sick or injured when conducting your inspection. Failing septic systems can leak into nearby ditches or streams where the sewage eventually ends up on our beaches where we swim, boat, and fish. The rule of thumb for planting is to use only shallow-rooted plants such as grasses. Garbage disposal and food waste going down the drain, and RV and boat waste dumped into your system, will fill the tank up quicker with solids. Brush for cleaning grime and grit from tools with hard to reach places, 5 Gallon bucket containing water with a good splash of bleach, Plastic cup for rinsing large tools with the sanitizer. Wood Stove Rule - Is My Wood Stove Okay to Use? A septic system evaluation can be performed by a septic system professional. Septic tanks are settling chambers that allow time for solids and scum to separate out from wastewater, so clear liquid can safely filter into the drainfield. This program supports healthy shellfish and fisheries, and helps ensure Washingtonians have access to swimming beaches and recreation.. To assist in this process, please have your address and/or your parcel ID number available. Household chemicals like gasoline, oil, pesticides, antifreeze, and paint. Electrical connections are typically buried and run underground from the dwelling to the pump tank. Let it cool, harden, and then throw it away in the trash. Save your money from septic tank additives. Think of inspections like oil changes and routine maintenance for your car, you do a little here and there to keep it running for as long as possible. The system type will be noted in multiple places within the permit. If you prefer, download and print a paper application (PDF), and mail to: Washington County Government Center Public Health . On-site Sewage System (OSS) Program The Public Health On-site Sewage System (OSS) Program helps to ensure that over 85,000 septic systems including 192 septic systems in Seattle are safe.