According to new regulations passed in 2015, if your septic tank discharges to surface water such as a ditch, stream, canal or river, you will have to upgrade your system to a sewage treatment plant or install a soakaway system by 1 January 2020.
Do I have to replace my septic tank by 2020?
Under the new rules, if you have a specific septic tank that discharges to surface water (river, stream, ditch, etc.) you are required to upgrade or replace your septic tank treatment system to a full sewage treatment plant by 2020, or when you sell a property, if it’s prior to this date.
How do I find out if my septic tank is compliant?
If you are unsure whether your septic tank has a new or existing discharge, contact Homeseptic or the Environment Agency who will be able to inform you if your system is compliant.
Are cesspits still legal?
Overflowing or leaking cesspits are an offence under the 1936 Public Health Act. Also, if it pollutes a water course, the Environment Agency can take legal action under the Water Resources Act 1991. If the cesspit leaks, a wastewater engineer should be called out to remove the waste and clear up the sewage.
Do old septic tanks need to be registered?
Many homes are not connected to mains drainage, instead having sewage treatment systems or septic tanks or occasionally cesspools. If your sewage treatment system or septic tank discharges to a river or stream it must be registered immediately.
Does heavy rain affect septic tank?
It is common to have a septic back up after or even during a heavy rain. Significant rainfall can quickly flood the ground around the soil absorption area (drainfield) leaving it saturated, making it impossible for water to flow out of your septic system.
What are the new regulations on septic tanks?
According to new regulations passed in 2015, if your septic tank discharges to surface water such as a ditch, stream, canal or river, you will have to upgrade your system to a sewage treatment plant or install a soakaway system by 1 January 2020.
When did septic tank regulations come in?
The General Binding Rules Regulations for small sewage discharges from Septic Tanks and Sewage Treatment Plants. New septic tank rules for small sewage discharges came into force on 1 January 2015. If your septic tank system was installed and in use before 31 December 2014, it is classed as an ‘existing discharge’.
What makes a septic tank non compliant?
A septic system can be non-compliant for a wide variety of reasons. A leaking tank, poor effluent quality or a tank discharging directly to a soakaway or stream are common causes for non compliance. (The latter being the most recent regulation in the general binding rules to be enforced as of January 2020.)
Do septic tank aerators work?
The biggest benefit to a septic tank aeration system is that studies have shown aeration can help break up waste up to 20 times faster than good bacteria alone. All in all, this means that you will have to pump your tank less frequently and you will need a smaller size leech field for your tank.
Are Soakaways legal?
If you are asking this question then the answer is probably not. Most historic systems discharge to a soakaway, which is basically just a hole in the ground filled with rubble. This does not allow for the proper treatment of effluent which is why it is now illegal.
Is cesspool a bad word?
But the word cesspool isn’t just used to describe a storage place underground where sewage is held temporarily. It’s also a term you might use to negatively describe something that’s swimming in germs or corruption.
Do cesspools have to be registered?
If you have a cesspit on your property, you don’t need to register it. However if you plan to install a new one you will need planning permission and building regulations approval to do so.
Can you sell a house with an old septic tank?
If you’re selling a property with a septic tank, then you must be transparent with buyers about the fact the property uses a one and provide a detailed specification of the system. In fact, You are required by law to inform a buyer in writing about the presence of a septic tank.
Can you sell a house with a septic tank?
If you currently have a septic tank that discharges to surface water then the sale will trigger the requirement to replace or upgrade the system. Buyers should satisfy themselves that any system is in good working order and does not cause pollution.
How long do septic tanks last?
A septic system’s lifespan should be anywhere from 15 to 40 years. How long the system lasts depends on a number of factors, including construction material, soil acidity, water table, maintenance practices, and several others.
Septic Systems Guidance, Policy, and Regulations
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has created a number of publications detailing its goal, priorities, and regulatory authority, as well as guidance and technical information to assist towns in establishing complete septic (onsite) management plans.
- Provision of guidance in the form of voluntary national guidelines and implementation tools in order to enhance the overall management of septic wastewater systems The following are examples of policy and regulations: Congressman’s reports, program strategies, and regulatory requirements for Class V wells
Guidance
- Factsheet about the Guidelines
- Understanding the Decentralized Management Guidelines is the subject of this presentation.
A “how-to” guide for adopting the Environmental Protection Agency’s Voluntary National Guidelines for the Management of Onsite and Clustered (Decentralized) Wastewater Treatment Systems is available in the Handbook for Managing Onsite and Clustered (Decentralized) Wastewater Treatment Systems. In this tutorial, you will learn how to construct a step-by-step strategy to establishing a community program for managing decentralized wastewater systems. You will also find community examples, aspects for good management, and links to other resources.
National Management Measures to Control Nonpoint Source Pollution from Urban Areas are currently being developed.
A guide for tribal nations on how to build, manage, and control onsite wastewater treatment facilities is available at Tribal Management of Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems.
Guideline for specifying management measures for nonpoint sources of pollution in inland and coastal waters Governmental guidelines on which environmental management methods to incorporate into state and territorial Coastal Nonpoint Pollution Control Programs are available.
Policy and Regulations
Report to Congress on the Prevalence Throughout the United States of Low- and Moderate-Income Households Lacking Access to a Treatment Works and the Use by States of Assistance Under Section 603(c)(12) of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (pdf) Section 4107(b) of the America’s Water Infrastructure Act (AWIA) of 2018 requires that this report be submitted. It contains a review of the national data sources available on decentralized wastewater treatment use; the prevalence of low- and moderate-income households without access to a treatment works; a summary of four state examples that have robust data on the use of decentralized wastewater treatment systems; and, a description of databases that record the use of state assistance programs.
Studies the viability of decentralized wastewater treatment, which might be a lower-cost alternative for local communities with wastewater treatment requirements.
Decentralized Wastewater Treatment Systems: A Program Strategy A Class V well is a well that is regulated while a septic system is in use.
Seepage Pits Have the Potential to Degrade Ground Water Quality Fact sheet about the dangers of utilizing cesspools for sewage disposal, as well as the law against using them.
SUFFOLK HEALTH OFFICIALS OUTLINE CHANGES TO WASTEWATER PRACTICES TO TAKE EFFECT ON JULY 1, 2019
Cesspools, which have been prohibited in new construction since 1973, will no longer be permitted as a replacement for old cesspools in the future. The replacement of old systems is not mandatory, but any voluntary replacements must satisfy the 1973 criteria for new systems in order to qualify. Replace existing cesspools or septic systems will need the submission of new registrations with the local health authority, marking the first time this has happened. The Suffolk County Department of Health Services is preparing to implement changes to the Suffolk County Sanitary Code that were approved in 2017 and will take effect on July 1, 2019, according to Suffolk County Health Commissioner Dr.
- The changes are part of a broad, multi-pronged effort to combat nitrogen pollution of groundwater and local bays.
- Replaced cesspools and septic systems will now be required to be registered with the Department of Health and Human Services, marking the first time that this has been done in the United States.
- Nevertheless, because the laws did not address replacement systems, owners of cesspools had been free to just swap out an ineffective one for a working one, instead of having to install a septic tank in order to comply with the code requirements for new systems.
- Obtaining approval can be accomplished by the submission of an electronic registration form completed by a licensed liquid waste contractor hired by a homeowner to replace a cesspool or septic system that is already in existence.
- The amendments are codified in Article 6 of the Suffolk County Sanitary Code, which is available online.
- Registered liquid waste contractors can inform the department of their intention to replace or upgrade a property owner’s existing cesspool or septic system using a specialized county web portal, which can be found at.
- Staff from the Department of Health and Human Services will be on hand to help licensed liquid waste contractors with any concerns that may arise during the installation of a replacement or retrofit system.
In the past decade, it has been shown that cesspools and septic systems are the principal source of nitrogen pollution, which contributes to toxic algal blooms, beach closures, and fish deaths, all of which have grown increasingly widespread.
Cesspools account for around 250,000 of these systems, which dump raw, untreated human waste into the environment.
Installation of a complete conventional septic system, which includes a septic tank and a leaching structure, can cost anywhere between $6,000 and $8,000 per installation, depending on the situation.
Incentives of up to $30,000 are being offered by Suffolk County to homeowners who choose to replace their existing wastewater systems with innovative advanced treatment systems.
“Over the past few years, the county has made historic progress in the effort to address longstanding concerns about the environmental impacts that result from the reliance on cesspools and septic systems,” said Dr.
“The county has made historic progress in the effort to address longstanding concerns about the environmental impacts that result from the reliance on cesspools and septic systems,” he added.
A homeowner may opt to improve their system if their old system is in need of replacement or if they need to replace their existing system.” Homeowners can contact the Department of Health Services Office of Ecology by email at [email protected] or by phone at (631)852-5811 for additional information about the new standards and the County’s Septic Improvement Program.
The new criteria are effective immediately. Detailed explanation of the 2017 Article 6 Amendments pertaining to the elimination of in-kind cesspool replacement Keep up with us suffolkcountyny.gov Facebook.com/SuffolkCountyHealth Twitter.com/SuffolkCoHealth
Basics for Septic Systems
On-site sewage facilities, also known as OSSFs, must be developed on the basis of a site evaluation that takes into consideration the specific requirements of the location. The system of choice for around 20% of new homes being built in Texas is the radon mitigation system. An On-Site Sewage Facility (OSSF), sometimes known as a “septic system,” is a sewage treatment system that is located on a property. As a result of the unexpected surge in new housing construction in suburban and rural regions, more Texas families are reliant on an OSSF for the treatment and disposal of their domestic sewage.
- Systems that accomplish their jobs well while also protecting the environment are made possible by new methods to design and oversight of OSSFs.
- A number of soil tests are ruling out traditional systems, which separate liquids from solid waste in a holding tank and then distribute them throughout a drainfield using underground pipes or other proprietary items in many regions of the state.
- However, because the majority of Texas soils are incapable of adequately absorbing contaminants, different treatment procedures are necessary.
- Any work on an OSSF must be done by a licensed installer or, in the case of a single-family property, by the homeowner himself or herself.
Who checks to make sure the requirements are followed?
Local governments in most parts of the state have taken on the obligation of ensuring that OSSFs in their jurisdictions comply with all applicable state regulations and procedures. There are several local governments that serve as “authorized agents” (AA) of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, which is in charge of managing the OSSF Program. A “designated representative” (DR) assists the AA in carrying out their tasks, which include examining plans for constructing, changing, extending, or repairing each OSSF; granting permits; and checking the system’s installation, among others.
The OSSF’s authorized agents and representatives also investigate and respond to complaints to verify that the OSSF is in compliance with minimal requirements.
After that, the agent can file a criminal complaint with the local justice of the peace, who will then investigate the matter.
Industrial or hazardous waste cannot be introduced into an OSSF; instead, this waste will be handled in the soil, destroying the OSSF by actually killing the microorganisms that break down the biosolids and causing it to fail.
Keep in mind that septic systems are intended to manage human waste rather than chemicals.
Maintenance
All OSSFs will require maintenance at some point in their lives. Conventional anaerobic systems require the septic tank to be pumped out on a regular basis in order to remove sediments and prevent the system from backing up. It is advised that you pump your septic tank once every three to five years in order to avoid short circuiting the treatment process and causing damage. To acquire a list of registered sludge transporters in your region, go to theSludge Transporter Queryonline. Aerobic systems are more complicated and require more upkeep than anaerobic ones do.
- A number of regulatory authorities have enacted more strict rules, which may include homeowner training or even prohibiting homeowners from performing upkeep on their properties.
- In order to guarantee that the system runs appropriately, it is recommended that you contract with a licensed maintenance provider to verify, debug, and test the system as required by 30 TAC 285.91(4).
- Once every six months if the system employs an electronic monitor, automated radio, or telephone to alert the maintenance provider of system or component failure as well as to monitor the quantity of disinfection remaining in the system, reporting might be lowered to once every six months.
- If any needed repairs are not completed, the permitting authority will be notified of the failure.
- The pills are extremely reactive, and within 10 minutes, they will have killed 99 percent of the germs present in the effluent.
- AVOID USING TABLETS DESIGNED FOR SWIMMING POOL USE DUE TO THE POSSIBILITY THAT THEY MAY RELEASE A HIGHLY EXPLOSIVE GAS KNOWN AS NITROGEN CHLORIDE.
- Please contact us at (800) 447-2827.
Where can I find more information and assistance?
The Small Business and Local Government Assistance Section of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) provides free, confidential assistance to small enterprises and local governments seeking to comply with state environmental requirements.
Call us at (800) 447-2827 or visit our website at TexasEnviroHelp.org for more information.
Permit Compliance
On July 1, 2007, the State of Vermont established universal control over the design, permitting, and installation of all new wastewater treatment facilities and potable water supply infrastructure. The installation of new wastewater systems and drinkable water supplies is subject to the requirements of the Wastewater System and Potable Water Supply Regulations. Construction of a new building (including single-family residences) that requires a wastewater system (also known as a sewage disposal system or a septic system) or water supply; and repair and/or replacement of a failed wastewater system or water supply are all examples of activities that require a permit from the city.
In the event that you want to purchase a property that already has a licensed wastewater system or water supply, or if you intend to build a new wastewater system or water supply, you should be familiar with the laws that apply to the property or system in question.
- It is your intention to purchase a home that has a wastewater system
- You’re selling a house that has a wastewater system on the property. You are acquiring a property that will require the installation of a wastewater treatment system. In the event that you want to renovate a building or structure that is subject to a wastewater permit, You have a hunch that you might wish to modify an existing structure on your land
Frequently Asked Questions
It is your intention to purchase a property that has a wastewater system installed. You’re selling a house that has a wastewater system on the premises. Your property will require the installation of a wastewater system, and you intend to purchase it. The building or structure in which you intend to work has a wastewater permit; you intend to renovate it; and You have an idea that you might wish to transform an existing structure on your land;
- Obtaining a permit means that the Agency of Natural Resources has given its permission for the design, location, and construction of a wastewater system and potable water supply for a structure. The permit approves a specified use and occupancy of the structure
- Many permits contain construction criteria that must be met prior to the subdivision of land, the occupancy of a building, or the change in use of a facility. The permit is valid for a specific period of time. Among these requirements are an examination of the wastewater system and potable water supply, and/or the submission to the Agency of a final water supply design and/or water quality testing results. Some permits have permit restrictions that are in effect for an extended period of time. The permit condition may stipulate that an examination of the wastewater system or water supply be carried out by a vendor-approved licensed designer, professional engineer, or service provider before the permit application may be submitted to the Agency. Ongoing permit conditions are most frequently included in permits for wastewater systems that include anInnovative/Alternativeproduct as part of the wastewater system
- A wastewater system that meets the performance standards of the Rules
- Or wastewater systems that are designed to dispose of a large volume of wastewater
- And
What is the best way to locate information about a specific wastewater system or water supply that has been approved for a certain property?
- If you need assistance locating information on your wastewater system or water supply, your Regional Office can assist you, and a Permit Specialist can answer any questions you may have about whether or not state permits are required. The Regional Office Project Database of the Wastewater Management Division may be used to search for documents and/or plans linked with permits issued by the Regional Offices. The database is maintained by the Wastewater Management Division. Make use of the site’s search tool to discover the Wastewater (WW) permit that corresponds to your property. It is possible that a QualifiedLicensed Designer was engaged in the design of your system. The designer’s name will appear on the wastewater permit that is on file at the Wastewater Management Division’s Regional Office Project Database, which is accessible online. Having the necessary abilities and credentials to evaluate a wastewater treatment system is something that the designer possesses. Inspection of the wastewater system or water supply required by permits most commonly demand that the inspection be undertaken by a licensed designer, professional engineer, or service provider who has been recognized by the permit granting authority. A landowner may hire the licensed designer who created the water supply or wastewater system, as well as any other licensed designer or service provider who has been approved by the vendor. Prior to January 1, 2014, I/A permits with yearly inspection and maintenance obligations required that the inspections and maintenance be overseen by a licensed designer or professional engineer who had been approved by the vendor prior to the inspection and maintenance being performed. Since the first day of January 2014, permit holders (both those with previously issued permits and those with newly issued permits) will be permitted to use vendor authorized service providers, as well as licensed designers or professional engineers, to supervise inspections. This simplification should result in lower expenses for homeowners as well as a more straightforward inspection and maintenance compliance procedure.
What information do I require to determine if I have an Innovative/Alternative or Performance-Based System? When developing a wastewater system, the State of Vermont permits the use of Innovative/Alternative(I/A) systems. Integrated/assisted systems (I/A systems) are used to either help overcome site restrictions that would otherwise prevent the installation of a wastewater system on the property or to reduce the size of a wastewater system on the land. The systems that have been approved are subject to certain permit restrictions that must be met in order to be installed and operated.
Permit criteria linked with the specific system in use include vendor and owner requirements, which will need the following actions:
- Annual reporting, maintenance contracts, annual inspections, and testing are all required.
What do I need to know if I have a Performance-Based System, and how can I find out? A Performance-Based system is constructed on the basis of site-specific hydrogeological testing that confirms the ability of the wastewater system to perform in accordance with the Wastewater System and Potable Water Supply Rules, among other requirements.
Permit conditions linked with performance-based systems will necessitate the following requirements:
- For the first three years of operation, the wastewater system was subjected to annual inspections and reporting.
What resources can I use to learn more about testing a wastewater system or a drinking water supply system? An annual wastewater system inspection and report is required by many permits, and the inspection and report must be completed by a certified licensed designer or service provider in most cases. It may be necessary to have the effluent examined by a laboratory that has been accredited. Only laboratories that have been accredited by the National Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Council (TNI) are permitted to conduct wastewater testing and analysis.
- Depending on the pollutants, the Department of Health or a laboratory certified by the Department of Health can examine your water.
- What are the ramifications of failing to comply with the terms of my Water/Wastewater (W/W) License Agreement?
- When new licenses are sought for, it is possible that non-compliance will be discovered.
- In order to ensure that a landowner complies with a permit requirement, the Agency may also initiate enforcement action against the landowner.
- Failure of a wastewater system is defined as wastewater surfacing, backing up into a building, or discharging into state waterways.
- A homeowner must take steps to alleviate the health hazard and bring their system or supply up to code compliance.
- In some cases, financial aid is available to qualified homeowners who are in need of upgrading their systems.
- Health Officers are responsible for enforcing health regulations, investigating any public health hazards and dangers in their communities, and taking action to address any problems that arise.
- What is a Septic System
- Fact Sheets for Homeowners
- And What is a Septic System are all good places to start.
Septic Systems
- Approval for construction
- Approval for operation
- Approval for septic system
Many changes to systems require Approval for Construction
Preliminary approval for construction must be obtained prior to converting a structure from seasonal to full-time occupancy, prior to increasing the load on an existing septic system, and/or prior to commencing any additions to a structure.
Preliminary approval must also be obtained prior to replacing or expanding a structure, subject to the requirements of RSA 485-A:38, II-a.
An inspector will determine whether the system meets requirements
A New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services inspector will inspect and assess the newly constructed septic system to confirm that it has been installed in line with the objective of the authorized design. An electronic Approval for Septic System Operation will be completed once the inspector has decided that the system complies with all relevant regulations. A digital copy of the approval will be kept on file with the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services. Inspectors from different regions
Guidance and permit applications for septic systems
In the case of any structure from which wastewater will be discharged on site and to which a water supply is or will be connected, a septic system will be needed to be installed. If your septic system is properly planned, implemented, and maintained, it should provide you with many years of trouble-free service. The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) provides instructions for filing applications, which can also be completed online through e-permitting. Locate the relevant apps.
Archive Records
Considering that the Subsurface Systems Act was enacted only in 1967, there are no records in existence if the building was built before 1967. The majority of the septic systems constructed within 1,000 feet of a surface water during the period 1967 to 1971 are included in the state records. The catalog of these records may not necessarily contain all of the information. From 1967 until 1986, the state’s records were exclusively comprised of paper documents. The municipality in which the structure is located may keep paper or electronic records of the structure’s history.
Submit an Archive Request
Department of Environmental Quality : About Septic Systems : Residential Resources : State of Oregon
In areas where houses and businesses are not linked to a municipal sewage system, a septic system is the most popular type of sewage treatment for those areas. When simplified to its most basic form, a septic system is comprised of two parts: a septic tank in which solids settle and decay and a drainfield in which liquid drained from the tank is treated by bacteria in the soil. Septic systems that are more sophisticated are constructed in places with high groundwater levels and/or poor soils.
Septic systems that are properly operating treat sewage in order to reduce groundwater and surface water contamination.
Learn more about how septic systems function by reading this article.
Before you buy
If the land is undeveloped, inquire as to whether the property has been examined for appropriateness for septic systems by either the Department of Environmental Quality or a local government contract agent, and if so, request a copy of the site evaluation report.
The following are the questions you should ask:Has the site changed since it was last evaluated?
- Well construction, fill, roads, and other modifications can all have an impact on appropriateness. Is the land suitable for your development needs, taking into account the kind of system stated as acceptable on the report and the placement of the septic system that has been approved?
If the property has not yet been examined, you may choose to request that the present owner arrange for an evaluation to be done. Application for a site review can be made through either the Department of Environmental Quality or a local government contract agent. Before deciding to acquire the land, you must determine what sort of septic system will be necessary, as well as whether or not the permitted system site will fit your development requirements. Existing sewage treatment systems- If you are considering acquiring a home with an existing septic system, you should engage a trained inspector to assess the system before making the purchase.
- Is it true that the system was implemented without a permit? If not, it is possible that the system is very old (permits have been necessary since 1972, and in certain counties even earlier), or that it was unlawfully built. Systems that have been illegally developed may pose a threat to public health or produce pollution. In the future, you may be forced to upgrade or replace the system, and you may be held accountable and penalized if the system malfunctions or poses a concern to public health and safety. If your family or business has a large number of members, is the system the correct size to meet their needs? Permit documents often include information on the system’s capacity in gallons per day. Typical household water use is 450 gallons per day for a four-bedroom home. How old is the system, and has it been adequately maintained over its lifetime? Is there documentation demonstrating that the septic tank was pumped on a regular basis? Have there been any difficulties or complaints that have been brought to your attention in the past? It is possible that your local permitting agency has records of complaints or infractions that have not been addressed yet. Before you moved here, how many people lived in the house? Perhaps the approach works well with a single person but not so well with four individuals. Is the septic tank connected to all of the plumbing fittings
- And Is there evidence of a septic system failure, such as puddles over the septic tank or flooded drainfields? If the property is next to surface waterways, check to see that there are no direct discharges from the property. When it comes to septic system replacement, is there a suitable location if the existing system fails? In the event that there are any septic permit documents, they will show the replacement area that should still be “laid aside” for this purpose. What is the role of a qualified inspector? Some septic installers and pumpers have received training in the inspection of existing systems, while others specialize in the installation of new septic systems or pump tanks, as appropriate. Certified maintenance providers may also have the qualifications of a qualified inspector. The goal is to find out what their credentials are in septic system assessments (as opposed to only septic tank evaluations), as well as to obtain some recommendations. Verify the credentials of the references before hiring a contractor.
Signs of septic system failure
- Pools of water or wet places, unpleasant aromas, and/or dark gray or black soils in the vicinity of your drainfield are all signs that something is wrong. Water from the sewer overflows into the lowest drains in the home. The sound of drains gurgling and poor draining (first check for obstructions)
- Soapy flows onto the ground surface, into ditches, or into surface waterways It is impossible to mow over the drainfield because the earth is too soft.
Installing a new system
In order to have a new septic system installed, a two-step procedure must be followed. 1. Submit an application for a site review. The tests pits you give on your property will be evaluated by a DEQ or county agent, who will decide the size and kind of septic system that will be required, as well as the placement. 2. Submit an application for a building permit. For application forms, contact your local DEQ office or county agent, or you can obtain DEQ application forms from this website. There is a cost for both the site appraisal and the issuance of the building permit.
Maintaining septic systems
By having your septic tank tested for solids accumulation on a regular basis, you may prevent having to pay for expensive repairs. When the solids buildup in your septic tank exceeds 40%, you should have it pumped by a pumper who is licensed by the DEQ. For advice on how often to get your septic tank examined, contact the Department of Environmental Quality. Maintaining the condition of your septic tank on a regular basis (every 5 to 7 years) and checking for solids accumulation can save you money on costly repairs.
If you follow the basic septic system DO’s and DON’Ts, a properly designed and maintained system may survive for a very long period.
Wells & Septic Systems
Anyone intending to establish or modify a septic system in Jefferson County, Ohio, is required to get a permission from the county. Additionally, a permit from the Jefferson County General Health District is required for any new home development (JCGHD). To get an application for a septic system permit, call the Environmental Division of the Jefferson County General Health District at (740) 283-8530 or visit their website. In addition, people can get a copy of the HJDS Rules of the Jefferson County General Health District or Chapter 3701-29 of the HSDS Rules of the Ohio Agricultural Commission by contacting the Environmental Division.
Important Rules and Information for Septic Systems
Those intending to construct or renovate a well, cistern, or pond in Jefferson County must first get a permission from the local building department. “Any person seeking to construct, change, or seal a private water system or component thereof, either in person or via a designated agent, should submit an application to the department for a permit,” according to Section 3701-28-01(A)(1) of the Private Water System Rules of the OAC. Except as provided in paragraph (H) of this rule, no work may be started until a valid permit has been issued by the appropriate authority.
Applicants are required to sign the application form and to provide the name of any registered contractor who will be hired to complete the work, if one is known.
Information Regarding Private Water and Septic Systems
We accept cash, credit cards, and checks as forms of payment. When paying with a credit card, there is a convenience fee of $2.50. Sunday is a closed day. Monday: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Tuesday: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. On Wednesdays, from 12 p.m. until 5:30 p.m. Thursday: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Friday: 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday – Friday: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.Toronto OfficeSaturday: CLOSED
Proudly Serving Jefferson County, OH
We accept cash, credit cards, and personal checks as forms of payment for our services. Credit card payments are subject to a $2.50 convenience charge. On Sunday, the store will be closed. On Monday, you may expect to work from 8 am to 4 pm, but you can also expect to work on Tuesday and Wednesday. Tuesday: 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. (EST). On Wednesdays, from 12 p.m. until 5:30 p.m., Hours of operation: Monday through Thursday: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm On Friday, the hours are 8 a.m.–3 p.m. Monday – Friday: 9 a.m.
Septic Systems
For homeowners who live in places where municipal sewer service is not accessible, septic systems must be constructed on their property to treat wastewater generated by their residence. On this page you will find:
- Site evaluations, testing, and monitoring are all included in the latest news, as well as information on the many types of septic systems and the requirements for cottage foods. Recommendations for Septic System Maintenance and Reminders
Information about the Sanitation Sewer System A sanitary sewer system is responsible for collecting and transporting waste from indoor plumbing fixtures to treatment facilities.
Latest News
Published on the 12th of October, 2020 Professionals in the field of septic systems: As a reminder, please submit complete septic applications in accordance with county standards, including the OWTS Manual v7.0, policies and procedures, and published guidance documents. This message is also intended to encourage and promote professional communication among those involved in septic applications.
Septic Permitting Updates Messages
Published on the 31st of December, 2019. To assist customers in complying with the recently adopted Onsite Wastewater Treatment System (OWTS) Manual version 7.0 as well as to make our permitting procedures clearer and more effective, Permit Sonoma is adopting a range of septic permitting enhancements.
Septic Permitting Changes Now in Effect
The post was published on August 16, 2019. The Director of Permit Sonoma officially approves the County of Sonoma’s Onsite Wastewater Treatment System (OWTS) Manual, version 7.0, which was published in January of this year and is effective immediately. Sonoma County Onsite Wastewater TreatmentSystem (OWTS) Manual Version 7.0 became effective on August 15, 2019, replacing the previous version. OWTS Manual version 7.0 will be used for all septic applications, and customers are urged to read and understand the terms of the manual before proceeding.
Added to the News Septic systems are classified into two categories:
Standard Onsite Wastewater Treatment System (OWTS)
A kind of OWTS consisting of a septic tank for initial sewage treatment, followed by a series of drainfield trenches for subsurface dispersal of effluent into the soil, is known as a septic tank and drainfield trench system.
The effluent from the septic tank is transported to the drainfield using either gravity flow or a pump system in a normal OWTS system.
Non-standard Onsite Wastewater Treatment System
This is a type of wastewater treatment system that may or may not include a conventional septic tank and/or a method of wastewater dispersal other than a conventional drainfield for the purpose of producing wastewater effluent of equal to or greater quality than a standard OWTS and improved performance of and siting for effluent dispersal than a standard OWTS. Non-standard systems can be divided into two categories. There are two types of OWTS that are not standard:
- Optional wastewater treatment system (OWTS): An approved non-standard wastewater treatment system that has demonstrated in the non-standard Experimental phase that it functions in a manner that protect water quality, prevents health hazards, and eliminates nuisance conditions, and that it is capable of producing wastewater effluent of equal or greater quality than a standard OWTS, as well as improved performance and siting for effluent dispersal, as opposed to a standard OWTS. Pretreatment units, mound OWTS, shallow trench pressure distribution OWTS, at-grade OWTS, shallow in-ground OWTS, bottomless sand filter OWTS, and subsurface drip dispersal OWTS are examples of such systems. Experimental OWTS: a non-standard OWTS that has been deemed conditionally acceptable by the Regional Water Quality Control Board and is subject to increased performance monitoring and evaluation before being accepted as an approved non-standard Alternative OWTS
- These include bottomless sand filter OWTS and gravel-less pressurized dispersion tubes, to name a few examples.
Cottage Foods Septic Requirements
Operators on septic systems are required to get a permit for their cottage food operations. When it comes to liquid waste disposal, this paper is intended for Cottage Food Operations that are linked to an onsite septic system rather than to a county or municipal sewage system. CottageFood Operation (CFO) is controlled under the California Homemade Food Act, which permits for the preparation and sale of certain types of food from a home kitchen run food facility. On September 21, 2012, Governor Brown signed the California Homemade Food Act into law, making it the first state to do so.
Site Evaluations, Testing, and Monitoring
Properties with septic systems may require the examination, testing, and monitoring services listed below.
Site Evaluation
Before you can submit an application for a septic permit, you will need to have your soil profile evaluated, as well as percolation and groundwater tests performed.
- Soil Profile Evaluation:Soil profile holes were dug for the purpose of conducting a preliminary site survey. In order to observe soil structures, texture, and formations, as well as the existence of seasonal groundwater, impervious rock formations, and other factors, soil profile evaluations are performed. Detailed soil profiles are vital in determining the appropriateness of any piece of land for the installation of private sewage dispersion systems. Test for Percolation: A test carried out in order to assess the permeability or percolation quality of the soil in a region where sewage dispersal is suggested. Percolation in the Wet Weather Groundwater testing is required when a new or replacement septic system is installed, as well as when the septic system is located in a basin area with slopes ranging from 0 percent to 5 percent, or when the septic system is located in a defined geographic area that has received 50% of the seasonal rainfall.
Operational Permit (OPR) and Monitoring Program – Non-Standard Septic Systems
The County’soperational permit (OPR) monitoring program requires owners of non-standard septic systems to participate in a variety of activities.
Recommended Septic Maintenance and Reminders
It is advised that you perform the following actions to keep your septic system in excellent working order:
- Sump filter should be cleaned once a year
- Septic tank should be pump every 3-5 years, depending on usage. A C42 or Engineering Contractor who is knowledgeable with these systems should purge and balance the system once a year. If you have a diversion valve, be sure to switch it on and off once a year or as indicated on authorized septic designs
- Provide findings to our office once a year for a minimum of two years if you have pre-treatment units that require sampling for analysis (see7 on the supplemental agreement). It is possible to collect samples from the sump tank. Keep expansion areas free of obstructions.
Maintenance resources for septic systems and vegetative cover include the following:
- WLS-012 Guidelines for Maintaining a Non-Standard Septic System
- WLS-013 Guidelines for Maintaining Toilets on Non-Standard Sewage Disposal Systems
- WLS-014 Guidelines for Maintaining a Non-Standard Septic System WLS-015 Procedure for Purging and Adjusting a Pressure Distribution Septic System
- WLS-017 Landscape Guidelines for Non-Standard Septic Systems
- A Homeowner’s Guide to Septic Systems-U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (PDF: 466kB)
- WLS-015 Procedure for Purging and Adjusting a Pressure Distribution Septic System
- WLS-015 Procedure for Purging and Adjusting a Pressure Distribution
Contact Information
Address2550 Ventura AvenueSanta Rosa, CA 9540338.465074, -122.72370538.465074, -122.723705
WellSeptic Maps
Map of Non-Standard Septic System OPR Inspection Locations in Sonoma CountyWellSeptic’s non-standard septic system OPR inspection areas in Sonoma County.
