A septic system evaluation can be performed by a septic system professional. 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. Feminine hygiene products such as tampons or pads. Skagit Countys Septics 201 Online Training program is designed to help property owners maintain and use their septic system, as well as conduct regular evaluations of their OSS. Your septic system contains a collection of living organisms that digest and treat household waste. Due to differences in elevations, on some occasions, a pump is needed to get the sewage to the drainfield. The pump tank will store the effluent until it is conveyed to a drainfield. Terms of Use coming into our offices, or calling us at 509.460.4205. Household Hazardous Waste Facility: 14104 Ovenell Road, Mount Vernon, WA 98273 Approved OSS site design applications submitted online since May 2019 are also available. If at any time you do not feel comfortable or confident in your ability to evaluate and maintain your septic system without the risk of becoming ill or injured, you should hire a licensed O&M Specialist to perform the work for you. If your washing machine has load settings, make sure you select the proper load size. On Get email alerts based on your topic preferences like news releases, job openings, emergency updates and more! Some tanks have smaller lids on each end of the tank to allow for inspection of inlet and outlet baffles. Gloves are the first line of defense for the average do-it-yourselfer. Fortunately, help is now available in every Washington county. See Department of Health Gravity Septic System inspection guide for a complete checklist and necessary tools. Tanks installed after 1976 are two compartment tanks and both compartments will need to be pumped out. Links. Using a garbage disposal on a septic system is not recommended. . Most tanks are covered by 12 to 18" of soil. The term on-site sewage system is used in the state and county code, on permit application forms, and by industry professionals to refer to different types of septic systems. It is imperative that you take all necessary precautions to minimize the risk of becoming sick or injured when conducting your inspection. A leaky toilet can waste hundreds of gallons of water a day. Local landscapers or nurseries can help you select plants that are appropriate for the areas around your septic system. Grease is a common household waste product that many people flush or rinse down the drain. Generally, the more people in the home, the more often you need to pump. View Map 3020 Rucker Avenue Suite 104 Everett, WA 98201 Directions Phone: : 425-339-5250 Fax: : 425-339-5254 Hours Regular hours: Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. Email Environmental Public Health . & 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 If you do not know where your system is located, you may be able to obtain this information from our offices. Financial assistance The On-site System Maintainer (OSM) will inspect your system components: Septic and pump tanks. Concrete lids may become cemented into place due to the shrinking and swelling of concrete. . Baby wipes, cleaning wipes, or any moist towelettes. 14350 SE Eastgate Way Assemble the following items when decontaminating your equipment and tools: Decontamination of equipment or tools should include a four-step process. Septic systems use a combination of nature and time-tested technology to treat wastewater from household plumbing produced by bathrooms, kitchen drains, and laundry. 400 Belfair: 360-275-4467, Ext. Missing information, photographs, etc. Look for a medication take-back program in your area. The average size of a 1000 gallon tank is 5'x8'. Everything you put down your drain or into the toilet will end up in your septic system. Repair leaky faucets and plumbing fixtures. However, it can take up to 60 days to fulfill your request. Sewage related records are typically marked with an "SWG". NOTE:Before 1975, permits were not required by law. 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. County Code, The septic system is a conventional gravity septic system, The OSS is a conventional gravity, a pump to gravity, or conventional pressure system, The property is not immediately adjacent to a marine shoreline, The inspection is not for the purpose of a real estate transfer or sale, The homeowner has completed Skagit County Septics 101, The homeowner has completed a Septics 201 Field Training Class, The homeowner can supply an as-built of their septic system, The homeowner must agree to allow a possible follow-up quality assurance visit by public health staff at a mutually agreeable time. Department of Ecology News Release - Sept. 21, 2021. Most household wastes, such as harsh chemicals, paints, and oils can be disposed of at your In gravity plumbing, liquids will carry solid materials out of your dwelling towards downstream components. The loan program is a partnership between the Department of Ecology, the Department of Health, local county and health departments, and Craft3, a nonprofit community lender. Wood Stove Rule - Is My Wood Stove Okay to Use? During this time when many are staying at home, it is important to keep a careful eye on actions that may affect your sewer or septic system. A long piece of rebar can be pounded into the ground to look for a tank. The septic tank will provide room for the solids to settle out and begin to decompose. If you cannot locate your drainfield, please contact public health or a certified O&M provider for help finding your drainfield. Complete a septic application using the online permitting portal. After completing your inspection and necessary maintenance, you should shower or bathe, even if you dont feel like youve been exposed to sewage. Once you submit your quiz and contact information, we will have a record of you completing Septics 101. Your septic system is not a trash can. Planning Online portal submissions Caring for Your Septic System | Washington State Department of Health Caring for Your Septic System Inspect Your System 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. It is not uncommon for a new septic system to cost $20,000 or more, making it a substantial investment that many homeowners cannot afford on their own, especially when the problems are unexpected. . Healthy septic systems are good for your family, your wallet and the environment. If you cannot remove the lid, contact a licensed O&M Specialist. 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. They allow for development in outlying communities, help protect groundwater and waterways, and reduce exposure to untreated sewage. Total wastewater generated. If you successfully locate your septic tank and remove its lids, the next step is to locate your drainfield. If youd like us to call you, please provide a phone number. Only the liquid sewage without solids called effluent should flow out of your septic tank; this clear effluent will be conveyed by gravity to the drainfield. Directions. The system type will be noted in multiple places within the permit. . Many things you do in your yard or on your property can affect the systems function and performance. If electrical problems are identified, a homeowner should contact a licensed Electrician. Washington Permits and Inspections Directory Advertising Search WA Public Records WA Marriage Records WA Divorce Records WA Criminal Records WA Death Records WA Birth Records WA Background Search Search Records By Name Find Permits and Inspections Resources in Washington Return to Top Return to Top Return to Top Return to Top Return to Top Don't avoid the signs of septic system failure. Prior to using any electrical device (screwdrivers, drills, flashlights, etc. Protects the Environment Malfunctioning septic systems release bacteria, viruses, and chemicals that eventually enter streams, rivers, lakes, Puget Sound, and the ocean. *: Which best describes your role in visiting our site today? All other types of systems are required to be inspected at least once every year. Link/share our site at www.kingcounty.gov/asbuilt, If you do not find a record drawing, please send an email to, Find certified small business contractors and suppliers, Private wells, plumbing and onsite sewage systems. Were you able to find what you were looking for today? Reducing water use will limit the demand you place on 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. Old homes may not have a septic permit or the as-built may be unreliable. Share & Bookmark, Press Enter to show all options, press Tab go to next option, Informacion sobre la vacuna contra la COVID-19, COVID-19 Information for Food Establishments, Selling Your Property - Report of System Status. Navigate to the Clark County PropertyInformation Center. Install flow restrictors on all or select faucets. Related Links Older septic tanks might not be sized appropriately for your home, especially if your home has been remodeled and is now larger. Contact information; Hours & location Septic tank size. Maintenance Besides human poop and pee, toilet paper, and soap used for washing, not much else should be going down your drain. The next step required to maintain your system is to dig up and remove your septic tank lids. Rinse: Spraying down portions of your septic system may result in exposure to sewage. Privacy Policy| Alternate Format Requests | Notice of Nondiscrimination, File Complaint About Provider or Facility, Healthcare Enforcement and Licensing Modernization Solution, Healthcare Professional Credentialing Requirements, Veterans, Service Members and their Families, Emergency Information for Specific Groups, For Public Health & Health Care Providers, Public Health System Resources and Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Local Health Jurisdictions and Tribal Directories, Northwest Center for Public Health Practice. The Snohomish County Health Department works to ensure that septic systems are located and installed correctly, and kept in good working condition. Oftentimes, the metal handle used to remove the lid may become rotted, and will not support the weight of the lid, nor be usable for popping off the lid. 3020 Rucker Avenue Suite 104 Everett, WA 98201 Phone: : 425-339-5250 Fax: : 425-339-5254 Hours Regular hours: Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. Craft3's Clean Water Loans - Craft3 offers financing for replacement of septic systems in many areas of Washington. Grease can also clog the pores in your soil, damaging your drainfield and may lead to system failure. These gases can be odorless and may deprive you of oxygen. The scale is typically depicted in inches to feet. A Conventional Gravity system will likely have all of the following major components, each of which should be thoroughly inspected: plumbing; septic tank(s); and a drainfield. You can check for leaks in your toilet too. Be sure to: Complete additional routine maintenance that is required for some system types. Green grass or depressions in your yard may be indications of where your tank is located. In the past there were no standards for septic systems and permits were not required. Wash: Next, immerse the equipment into the 5-gallon bucket containing a soap and water mixture. What you flush, how much you flush, and how much water you run down the drain will affect the function and performance of your septic system. It is also recommended the first inspection of any OSS be done professionally. These records will be helpful if problems occur, and will be valuable to the next owner of your home. Commercial properties and non-owner occupied properties may also qualify. Washington State on-site sewage (septic) system rules & regulations (WAC 246-272A) On-Site Sewage Basics A conventional septic system consists of two main parts: the septic tank and the soil drainfield (also referred to as a leachfield, absorption bed or absorption field). Keep water runoff away from your system. You must be able to observe the inlet and outlet of your septic tank. 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. 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. Expanding the program statewide was made possible with funding support from the state legislature. Some gases found in properly functioning septic systems have different densities. 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. [Ver este comunicado de prensa en Espaol]. Find a certified O&M provider. Using gloves will minimize your exposure risk. 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 [email protected]. Never mix sanitizers! Yakima. - Manage notification subscriptions, save form progress and more. 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. A septic contractor installs a new drain field for a homeowner. As-Built Records Northeast Tri County Health District maintains records of permits for completed on-site sewage systems. If you put a lot of water down the drain (from inefficient or leaky toilets, washers, showerheads, and sink faucets), the tank can't settle completely and you may need to pump more often. . The more wastewater you produce, the more wastewater the soil must treat and dispose. Many of these products can clog your plumbing and septic system. In these cases, the owner will find it easier to utilize the services of a licensed O&M Specialist. . Washington State Department of Health. To assist in this process, please have your address and/or your parcel ID number available. Regardless of the method you use to request this document, you will need to provide the following information: *If your address was once a "route #, box #" please include the roads/streets that the property is located on and by. Then, they will submit a report to Public Health about the status of your system. After reviewing this information and the training videos listed below, homeowners may evaluate their own on-site sewage system (OSS). SepticSmart EPA offers advice on proper septic care and brochures and factsheets for homeowners. Tacoma, WA 98418-6813 (253) 649-1500 (800) 330-1844 TDD (253) 649-1400. A. Oftentimes, when tanks are installed, the dirt used to cover them has a different texture than the surrounding area. Volume of solids in wastewater. As-builts are drawings that oftentimes are drawn to scale or otherwise help describe the location of your septic system. 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. Splashing or spraying can and will occur. Create a Website Account - Manage notification subscriptions, save form progress and more. For information on failing septic systems, please see our Septic Failure Brochure. During the 2020-2022 Project, we are sampling water quality, performing visual surveys, and providing free technical assistance and rebates. In the area near your drainfield, arrange products and tools where you can: Septic systems that contain a pump also include an electrical element. Flies, rats, and other vectors can encounter sewage from a failing septic system and subsequently pass the diseases found in sewage to humans or infect other animals at locations far from the failing system. Failing septic systems can result in sewage backing up in the home or entering local waterways and groundwater supplies posing a public health threat. Work with septic system professionals to approve system design,location and installation. Your local health agency may have a more stringent inspection requirement. You may find junction boxes, wires, or other electrical connections in the pump chamber. Environmental Health Services Water usage is likely the biggest contributor to a failed septic system. OSS records. Approximately a third of Washington homes use septic systems for wastewater treatment. Four major factors influence how often you need to pump your septic: Practice water conservation. Your groundwater and Puget Sound lakes, rivers, and beaches benefit, too! I can't find my record drawingrequest Health Department search for a record you can't locate. Additional water, clean or not, taxes your soils ability to accept all of the liquids landing on the soil. Patient information should not be disclosed to the answering service. How would you like to receive your "as-built": Before 1975, permits were not required by law. If the label says, Danger, Warning or Caution bring it to the facility for proper disposal. Directions. Prescription medication. The wastewater leaving the septic tank is a liquid called effluent. A failing septic system is usually a costly and urgent situation for homeowners. Larger tools may require the use of a brush and a small rinse cup to completely clean areas that cannot be immersed in the bucket. Remove the equipment and tools from the soap and water mixture. For this reason, equipment, clothing, and tools that have been splashed with or immersed in effluent or sewage, must be decontaminated. 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 [email protected]. Building remodel permits Public Records Requests Learn the basics of septic system design, maintenance, and dos and donts to keep your septic system working well as long as possible. NOTICE OF DATA SECURITY INCIDENT (SPANISH). Our reply (from PAEGAT25) may go to your email's Spam folder. Hygienic practices mentioned here will help you protect yourself. If you hear a hollow thud and the rebar stops going deeper, you may have found a tank. The completed form must include photos of. While trouble-shooting, water can be used to simulate normal water flow through the septic system. Household chemicals like gasoline, oil, pesticides, antifreeze, and paint. For these reasons, a person should do everything possible to minimize risk of exposure to gas. will be sent back to the homeowner for revision. Protecting your face, eyes, and mouth will minimize your risk of illness. A Sanitarian of the Day is available Monday through Friday from 9 to 10:30 a.m. on a first come, first served basis either by . 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. This program supports healthy shellfish and fisheries, and helps ensure Washingtonians have access to swimming beaches and recreation.. 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. Don't select the large-load cycle if you're washing a small amount of laundry. These areas provide a transmission corridor for viruses and bacteria to enter the body. While the Septics 201 online program provides the basic information necessary to operate and maintain most gravity septic systems, it cannot address every condition and situation that may be encountered. If documents are not available please contact Clark County Public Health at (360) 397-8428. You may be able to use a metal detector to help you locate the tanks as they are made of concrete with rebar, and the handles on the lids are usually made of metal wire. Rakes, shovels, and poles can be used to reach components that are well below ground or out of reach. Washington Administrative Code chapter 246-272A and Clark County Code 24.17 requires homeowners whose property is not connected to a municipal sewer system to ensure that the property includes an approved, correctly functioning on-site septic system. Previously, Craft3 offered Clean Water Loans on a more-limited basis in partnership . Once these products congeal, they can cause blockages in your system. We recommend searching by the 12-digit tax parcel number. 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. 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. Include the parcel number and street address and we will search our files for the drawings. Some are simple, using only a tank and a drainfield. Lids will likely be located near both ends of the tank. Real estate professionals need to inform both the buyer and seller of this requirement. Tank lids come in different shapes and sizes. Garbage disposals are frequently installed in new homes. The scale should be described on your as-built. Septic systems that have a curtain drain installed around them, often are dependent on a functioning curtain drain. Keeping drains free from blockage ensures that surface water is being moved properly around your septic system. . see the Washington State Department of . Many flow restrictors have no mechanical parts while others reduce flow based upon pressure. see the Washington State Department of . Septic Applications in 3 Easy Steps. List of certified septic pumpers, installers, and monitoring and maintenance professionals, List of designers and engineers certified to work in Snohomish County, Planning and Development Services Map Portal, Septic Contractors & Certification Services. 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. If there is a slow leak, the food coloring will show up in the toilet bowl. 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. 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. Save your money from septic tank additives. To assist in this process, please have your address and/or your parcel ID number available. This program has continued with funding from the Washington State Department of Health to perform public education and outreach activities, offer rebates to encourage septic system inspections, and improve tracking and reporting capabilities. Contact us at [email protected] (253) 649-1925. Exposing these areas to sewage increases a persons risk of contracting an illness. Tacoma, WA 98418-6813 (253) 649-1500 (800) 330-1844 TDD (253) 649-1400. Keeps You and Your Neighbors Healthy Household wastewater is loaded with disease-causing bacteria and viruses, as well as high levels of nitrogen and phosphorus. Use water-saving devices such as faucet aerators and high-efficiency toilets, showerheads, dishwashers, and washing machines. Check the Washington Department of Labor and Industries to find information about electricians. 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 Tools can be used to further minimize your exposure to the sewage contained in your septic system. Meet septic system requirements before you do. The final treatment occurs in the soil of your drainfield. Protects Your Property Value An unusable septic system or one in disrepair will lower your property value and poses a potentially costly legal liability. Saves You Money Regular maintenance fees of a few hundred dollars every few years is a bargain compared to the cost of repairing or replacing a malfunctioning septic system, which can cost thousands. Thank you for your patience as we continue to update our new website. If your water meter has a counter, all you need to do is write the number down, along with the time and date and a few days later, look at the meter again. Directing surface water away from your tanks and drainfield will help your drainfield function as well as possible. . Manager of Healthy People & Communities. Instead, use boiling water or a drain snake. WA 98368. Proper hygienic practices minimize the risk of exposure to disease causing agents that are found in sewage. It is also wise to keep a record of maintenance on the system. *: Regional On-Site Sewage System Loan Program, Copyright Washington State Department of Ecology. Combined, these systems treat 154 million gallons of wastewater annually. If the as-built is accurate, this will allow you to find plumbing stubs, tank lids, distribution boxes, drainfield lines and observation ports. If your system was installed before 1975, no records may be available. Some household products are advertised as septic safe. Let the equipment soak as needed. Learn more about water conservation and water recycling. Brochures, OSS records Departments / Elected . Environmental Health records (including on-site sewage records) are available online. Statewide access to this program is a win for homeowners, public health, and clean water. 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. It should be noted that at the time of a property transfer, a licensed O&M Specialist must conduct the inspection. Flushing them will increase the need to pump, maintain and repair your system. Fully immerse the tools and equipment in the solution as much as you can, let stand for 3 minutes or longer. Grass may grow greener in these disturbed areas. Routine pumping can prevent expensive failures such as a clogged drainfield or sewage backing up into the home. The drainfield is the final and the most downstream component in your septic system. 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. Common in rural areas without centralized sewer systems, septic systems are underground wastewater treatment structures that you own and operate. 311 Grand Avenue | Bellingham, WA 98225 | Phone: 360-778-5000 [] . Whether you're at the kitchen sink, bathtub, or utility sink: Septic tank additives sold in stores aren't necessary to keep your septic tank working properly and they don't reduce or eliminate the need for routine pumping.