If the as-built is accurate, this will allow you to find plumbing stubs, tank lids, distribution boxes, drainfield lines and observation ports. Household bleach is a very effective sanitizer for killing bacteria and viruses. A septic system evaluation can be performed by a septic system professional. Accessibility, View your Septic System Information Online, Community Health Assessment and Improvement Plan, Children and youth w/special health care needs, Nurse-Family Partnership - helping first-time parents succeed, View your Drinking Water Information Online, Food worker testing & manager certification, FAQ's for farmers markets, bazaars & temporary events, Positive and Adverse Childhood Experiences, Environmental health resources for schools, School Health and Safety Technical Advisory Group, View your operations and maintenance report on onlineRME, See if your septic system is documented appropriately, View inspection reports from November 2007 - Present, Get quick access to the same records our staff use: like as-built drawings or permits, 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. 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. Free viewers are required for some of the attached documents.They can be downloaded by clicking on the icons below. A typical conventional gravity system will not have any mechanical devices to convey water or material; gravity will do all of the required work. 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. 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. Learn how to obtain sewage permit information. See Ecology's. If heavy rains cause water to sit around your septic system, avoid putting water down your drains. If you prefer, download and print a paper application (PDF), and mail to: Washington County Government Center Public Health . To find out what type of system you have, take a look at your propertys as built records. Electrical connections are typically buried and run underground from the dwelling to the pump tank. 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. What is a septic system? For example, a scale of 1 = 20 means that every inch on the paper is equal to 20 feet in your yard. . Certifications This is called vertical separation, and you can see in the figure how the vertical separation determines the type of system needed for a specific site. 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. Keep accurate records of your septic system. *: Which best describes your role in visiting our site today? Search for Records. see the Washington State Department of . These materials do not decompose or breakdown easily, if at all. Once the sewage is at the drainfield, it is dispersed via gravity within the drainfield. Water usage is likely the biggest contributor to a failed septic system. Environmental Health records (including on-site sewage records) are available online. Directory Septic Application Turnaround Times Health Information Privacy Information . Household size. Keeping drains free from blockage ensures that surface water is being moved properly around your septic system. Related Links Board of Health Meetings; Fee Schedule; . 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. Clean these tools in accordance with the manufacturers instructions. Four major factors influence how often you need to pump your septic: Practice water conservation. Know where the system is and keep a diagram of its location. Combined, these systems treat 154 million gallons of wastewater annually. Sanitize: After thoroughly rinsing the tools, immerse the equipment in a sanitizer solution. 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, Asking your local health department if they can inspect your system at a lower cost, Do-It-Yourself Septic System Inspection Video, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Local Health Jurisdictions and Tribal Directories, Northwest Center for Public Health Practice. Care must be taken to properly clean electronic tools such as drills or screw drivers. Search for records on any property. Install flow restrictors on all or select faucets. Generally, the more people in the home, the more often you need to pump. There are a number of things you can do to check for leaks. Public Records Requests . Options for inspecting your system include: Pump out your septic tank when needed. 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. Drainfield and the reserve areas. 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 septic system is a huge property investment, so maintaining the one youve got is cheaper than replacing the entire system. Well-functioning and properly maintained septic systems can effectively treat household wastewater for many years. Be aware that your meter readings may represent all of the water used, including irrigation. It is likely that methane will also be found in your septic system. The pump tank will store the effluent until it is conveyed to a drainfield. Don't avoid the signs of septic system failure. If electrical problems are identified, a homeowner should contact a licensed Electrician. 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 your washing machine has load settings, make sure you select the proper load size. They include both new construction and repairs to failing systems. The septic tank will provide room for the solids to settle out and begin to decompose. Healthy septic systems are good for your family, your wallet and the environment. Evaluating, maintaining, or troubleshooting your septic system can expose you to the many pathogens or disease causing organisms found in human waste. RSS Guidance for properties with multiple structures. Please enable JavaScript in your browser for a better user experience. Feminine hygiene products such as tampons or pads. The online septic case records include, if available, the permit application, the approved permit and conditions, the asbuilt or record drawing and construction report, the approved design, the soil report, and letters from JCPH since septic system installation. Most household wastes, such as harsh chemicals, paints, and oils can be disposed of at your
In the past there were no standards for septic systems and permits were not required. These gases can be odorless and may deprive you of oxygen. Thurston County also performs this service for a fee. 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. Tank lids come in different shapes and sizes. While trouble-shooting, water can be used to simulate normal water flow through the septic system. These records will be helpful if problems occur, and will be valuable to the next owner of your home. The pollutants harm local ecosystems by killing native plants, fish, and shellfish. 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. By reducing and balancing your use, you can extend the life of your drainfield, decrease the possibility of system failure, and avoid costly repairs. You may get splashed or sprayed with raw sewage. How would you like to receive your "as-built": Before 1975, permits were not required by law. Previously, Craft3 offered Clean Water Loans on a more-limited basis in partnership with specific counties. The chemicals can alter the natural biological conditions found in your septic system. During the 2020-2022 Project, we are sampling water quality, performing visual surveys, and providing free technical assistance and rebates. Learn more about water conservation and water recycling. Prescription medication. A homeowner will become eligible to complete an evaluation of their own OSS only if the following conditions are met: Once all the above conditions are met, the homeowner is required to submit a completed On Site Sewage Summary Report form, provided by public health. Sewage related records are typically marked with an "SWG". Grease is a common household waste product that many people flush or rinse down the drain. Subtract the smaller number from the larger; the difference is the amount of water you used since the previous time you read the meter. Methane gas is produced by decomposition of organic materials. Applications, permits and fees, Buying and selling properties 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. Please note- many other septic systems exist, we are only discussing those allowed to be inspected by homeowners through this course. Any exceptions to the above conditions must have written approval of Skagit County Environmental Public Health staff. 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. Any homeowner with a pump included in their system is required to obtain additional training with a certified Operations & Maintenance (O&M) provider to sign off on the additional training provided for these system types. A "how to" guide is available on the online permitting portal when applying for a septic permit. Links. Once these products congeal, they can cause blockages in your system. Local landscapers or nurseries can help you select plants that are appropriate for the areas around your septic system. If your system was installed before 1975, no records may be available. Lids are heavy and may be difficult to remove. Flow restrictors are an easy and effective means to reduce water consumption. Many things you do in your yard or on your property can affect the systems function and performance. They protect your eyes and mouth from the liquids in your septic system. . . In the plumbing, liquids will carry solid materials out of your dwelling towards downstream components. The best way to determine your system type is to review your septic permit. 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 Please arrive no later than 3:30 p.m. NOTICE OF DATA SECURITY INCIDENT (SPANISH). 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. outlet baffle, and 3) distribution box (if present) within 30 days of inspection. Septic systems treat wastewater when homes and buildings are not connected to public sewer systems. Your septic system is not a trash can. 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. & 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
Contact us at ehsepticsystems@tpchd.orgor (253) 649-1925. Some plumbing (like toilets) can leak so slowly that it is difficult to hear or see signs of a leak. Look for a medication take-back program in your area. Proper care and maintenance of your septic system also occurs around the area where your system is installed. 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 eh@co.skagit.wa.us. Mason County, WA. Wash: Next, immerse the equipment into the 5-gallon bucket containing a soap and water mixture. Don't wait until you have a problem. The drainfield is the final and the most downstream component in your septic system. OSS records
Septic Applications, Forms & Resources Browse applications, forms, and resources for septic systems. They include both new construction and repairs to failing systems. Check the Washington Department of Labor and Industries to find information about electricians. As-Built Records Northeast Tri County Health District maintains records of permits for completed on-site sewage systems. Remove gross contamination from your equipment. . Since 2008, Washington state law and Island County code have required that all septic systems be inspected at the time of property transfer. 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. Most tanks are covered by 12 to 18" of soil. A garbage disposal adds more solid material to your septic system. 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. 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. View your operations and maintenance report on onlineRMEOn Site Septic formsReport a public health concern, 2023 Clark County Washington This will be located downhill from the septic tank outlet baffle (unless there is a pump). If shellfish filter polluted water, they can become unsafe for humans to eat. A properly functioning septic system helps remove these pollutants so well water and nearby surface water doesn't get contaminated. ), all septic system parts should be vented thoroughly. Keep water runoff away from your system. Flushing them will increase the need to pump, maintain and repair your system. An inspection report from a homeowner will only be accepted if the report is for that property owners OSS system. Rinse: Spraying down portions of your septic system may result in exposure to sewage. SepticSmart EPA offers advice on proper septic care and brochures and factsheets for homeowners. There are a number of older homes where something was installed years ago that makes the wastewater go away but where it goes and how it functions is unknown. Don't select the large-load cycle if you're washing a small amount of laundry.
Your as-built or record drawing should describe the location of your drainfield. They store, treat and dispose of the things you flush or send down drains. To assist in this process, please have your address and/or your parcel ID number available. The final step to evaluating your system is completing the appropriate Skagit County Health Department On-Site Sewage System (OSS) Homeowner Report. Again, using the garden hose, rinse the soap from the equipment; this will ensure the soaps do not bind with the sanitizer. Avoid chemical drain openers for a clogged drain. Building remodel permits The Drainfield The drainfield receives septic tank effluent. 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. Washington State Department of Health. Departments / Elected . Think of them like a sewage treatment plant, only much smaller. Report. Oftentimes, when tanks are installed, the dirt used to cover them has a different texture than the surrounding area. Others are more complex, requiring pumps, filters, or specially designed materials. There are many different types of systems. 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. Please allow up to five business days for a response. On-site Sewage Systems Chapter 246-272A WAC. A homeowner maintaining a pump system should minimize electrical hazards where appropriate. Once you submit your quiz and contact information, we will have a record of you completing Septics 101. 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. To learn more, check out these 3D septic system models. Let the equipment soak as needed. 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. The final treatment occurs in the soil of your drainfield. One of the main site characteristics that determines the type of system you have is the depth of native, unsaturated soil beneath the drainfield and above a water table or other restrictive layer. . Reduce the risk of people getting sick from untreated sewage. - Manage notification subscriptions, save form progress and more. I can't find my record drawingrequest Health Department search for a record you can't locate. 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. 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 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. Environmental Health 415 N. 6th Street Shelton, WA 98584. (Not compatible with Internet Explorer.) 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. Tacoma, WA 98418-6813 (253) 649-1500 (800) 330-1844 TDD (253) 649-1400. Email Environmental Public Health . Don't put concrete or plastic over your septic system. Vince McGowan, water quality program manager for Ecology. *: Regional On-Site Sewage System Loan Program, Copyright Washington State Department of Ecology. Thank you for your patience as we continue to update our new website. French drains, curtain drains, or shallow diversion ditches can help move water out and around your septic system. When a failing septic system is fixed, the benefits go beyond the home. Anyone can access those records by searching our online records database. As-builts are drawings that oftentimes are drawn to scale or otherwise help describe the location of your septic system. Phone: : 360-385-9444. The next step required to maintain your system is to dig up and remove your septic tank lids. 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. To assist in this process, please have your address and/or your parcel ID number available. 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. Common in rural areas without centralized sewer systems, septic systems are underground wastewater treatment structures that you own and operate. 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,. Expect to hear from us within 5 days. If youd like us to call you, please provide a phone number. 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. Remove the equipment and tools from the soap and water mixture. . Septic tank size. These areas provide a transmission corridor for viruses and bacteria to enter the body. Island County code requires these inspections be completed by an Island County Licensed Maintenance Service Provider. Commercial properties and non-owner occupied properties may also qualify. 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. This process may require the use of a stiff bristled brush to remove all contaminants. They can be purchased at your local hardware store and are fairly easy to install in a typical faucet. 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.). All other types of systems are required to be inspected at least once every year. Brochures, OSS records Online portal submissions 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. 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. The Snohomish County Health Department works to ensure that septic systems are located and installed correctly, and kept in good working condition. The longevity of your on-site septic system relies heavily on the way that you care for it. Septic systems produce gases that can be explosive or are capable of displacing oxygen. Remember, the soil where your drainfield is located, is capable of disposing of only so much liquid. Please note this is the number of our answering service, and you will receive a call back from Public Health. Statewide access to this program is a win for homeowners, public health, and clean water. If you have a water meter on your property, you can easily figure out how much water you and your family are using. It is a 40 minute narrated presentation followed by a 20 question quiz on septic system basics. Curtain drains may require some maintenance themselves. While they may not have a negative effect on your system, they do fill your septic system with wastes that require removal through pumping. 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. The septic tank will provide room for the solids to settle out and begin to decompose. 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. Your septic system contains a collection of living organisms that digest and treat household waste. 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.