But a basic septic system inspection typically runs between $300 to $600, says Boudreau. You can also reach out to your local health department to see if it performs inspections for a reduced price.
- Septic inspection costs vary depending on the detail with which they inspect the tank and the size of the tank, but for a 1,000-1,500 gallon tank, a full inspection typically runs between $300 and $600. Make sure to check with your local health department to see if they do inspections at a reduced cost.
How often should a septic tank be serviced?
As a general rule, you should only need to empty your septic tank once every three to five years. That being said, the actual frequency will vary depending on your usage and how many people are living in your home.
What should I look for when inspecting a septic system?
There are three things a septic system inspector will check during an inspection including the integrity of the septic tank, the proper function of the distribution box, and a leach field that is working as intended. If all three of these components are working correctly you will have passed the septic inspection.
What are the signs that your septic tank is full?
Here are some of the most common warning signs that you have a full septic tank:
- Your Drains Are Taking Forever.
- Standing Water Over Your Septic Tank.
- Bad Smells Coming From Your Yard.
- You Hear Gurgling Water.
- You Have A Sewage Backup.
- How often should you empty your septic tank?
How do I keep my septic tank healthy?
Do’s and Don’ts when maintaining your septic system
- Regularly inspect and maintain your septic system.
- Pump your septic tank as needed.
- Keep your septic tank lids closed and secured.
- Be water-wise.
- Direct water from land and roof drains away from the drainfield.
- Landscape with love.
- Keep septic tank lids easily accessible.
How much does it cost to pump a septic tank?
How much does it cost to pump out a septic tank? The average cost is $300, but can run up to $500, depending on your location. The tank should be pumped out every three to five years.
What is a septic dye test?
What is a septic dye test? A dye test is what we would equate to a visual inspection: water is introduced to the system to check for seepage over the yard. As the name suggests, the inspector dyes the water so that it is easily visible if it comes to the surface.
What to do after septic is pumped?
After you have had your septic tank pumped by a trusted septic company, there are some things you can and should do as the septic system owner.
- 1) Get on a Schedule.
- 2) Take Care of the System.
- 3) Know the Parts of Your System.
- 4) Check Other Possible Issues.
What is the most common cause of septic system failure?
Most septic systems fail because of inappropriate design or poor maintenance. Some soil-based systems (those with a drain field) are installed at sites with inadequate or inappropriate soils, excessive slopes, or high ground water tables.
How do you know if your septic system is failing?
The first signs of a failing septic system may include slow draining toilets and sinks, gurgling noises within the plumbing, sewage odors inside, continuing drainage backups, or bacteria in the well water. The area of the strongest odor will point to the location of the failure in the septic system.
How do I check my septic tanks sludge level?
To measure the sludge layer:
- Slowly lower the tube into the septic tank until it touches the bottom of the tank.
- As the device is slowly pulled out of the water, the check valve closes capturing a liquid/solid profile of the septic tank water. The thickness of the sludge layer can be measured.
How often does a 1000 gallon septic tank need to be pumped?
For example, a 1,000 gallon septic tank, which is used by two people, should be pumped every 5.9 years. If there are eight people using a 1,000-gallon septic tank, it should be pumped every year.
How often should I pump my septic tank?
Inspect and Pump Frequently The average household septic system should be inspected at least every three years by a septic service professional. Household septic tanks are typically pumped every three to five years.
How do I clean my septic tank naturally?
You can mix about a 1/4 cup of baking soda with 1/2 cup of vinegar and 2 tablespoons lemon to make your own natural cleaning agent. The baking soda will fizz up to help get the dirt and grime in your tub and drains. It’s a great cleaner and your septic system will thank you!
Environmental Health Division Fee Schedule
| Environmental Health Services | |
|---|---|
| Soil Evaluation per Parcel (3 boring max. location) | |
| Single Family | 300 |
| Soil Evaluation / Individual Soil Boring Single Family | 100 |
| Per building site commercial | 325 |
| Per building soil boring commercial | 175 |
| Alternative Technology Vacant Land Evaluation/prelim. review | 500 |
| Sewage Disposal Permits | |
| ResidentialNew Construction Single Family | 350 |
| New Construction Single Family w/engineer plans | 550 |
| Replacement Septic Permit Single Family* | 275 |
| Replacement Septic Permit Single Family w/engineer plans* | 450 |
| Single Family Septic Tank only | 150 |
| Alternative Technology Operating Permit | 30 |
| Permit Renewal | 50% of permit fee |
| Commercial |
- A Commercial Sewage Permit for 1000 gpd without engineer plans* is required.
- A Commercial Sewage Permit for 1000 gpd without engineer designs is required.
| 150 | |
| Re-inspection Fee – when construction does not comply w/approved permit | 100 |
| Plan Review Resubmission Fee | 150 |
| *For Replacement Permits add appropriate Soil Evaluation Fee to Permit Total | |
| Water Supply Permits |
- (The fees do not include any charges for water quality testing.)
| Single Family/Residential Test Well/Irrigation Well/Vertical Closed Loop Geothermal | 275 |
| Public Water Supply: | |
| 400 | |
| Certified Operator Training | 75 |
| Commercial Process/Irrigation Well | 275 |
| Test Well for Commercial Projects | 300 |
| Permit Renewal | 50% of permit fee |
| Field Related Services | |
| Hydrogeologic Plan Review | 646 |
| Subdivision Plat Review: |
- Subdivision Plat Review (Onsite Water Supply Only)
- Subdivision Plat Review (Onsite Water Supply Only)
- Subdivision Plat Review (Onsite Water Supply Only)
- Subdivision Plat Review (Onsite Water Supply Only)
- Subdivision Plat Review
- Subdivision Plat Review (Onsite Water Supply Only)
- Subdivision Plat Review (Onsite Water Supply)
| 1,166 | |
| Septic Installers License – New | 210 |
| Yearly Renewal | 79 |
| 53 | |
| Hearing before the Health Officer | 100 |
| Hearing before the Board of Appeals | 275 |
| Public Assemblage Permit | 200 |
| Field/Office Review for Additions/Remodel | 75 |
| Horizontal Closed Loop Geothermal | 75 |
| Community HealthSafety Programs | |
| Department of Human Services: |
- A public swimming pool (new construction)
- A first opening inspection of a public swimming pool
| 100 | |
| Public Assemblage Permit | 200 |
| Mobile Home Park Plan Review | 1,030 |
| 100 | |
| Cemetery Plat Review | 131 plan review + 200 soil evaluation |
| *$75 for each additional pool/spa at the same address | |
| Body Art | |
| Body Art Plan Review and major remodeling of existing establishment (including consultation, construction, pre-opening, and 30 day follow-up inspection) | 600 |
| Re-inspection Fee – Follow up of Critical Violations | 100 |
| Enforcement Hearings | 150 + follow-up inspection costs |
| Remodeling or Renovating of Existing Body Art Establishment (Plan Review) | 275 |
| Change of Ownership | 200 |
| Temporary Body Art Establishment license/inspection and plan review | |
- A completed and submitted application that is received 10 days or more before to the event
- A completed application that is received fewer than 10 days before the event
| 500 | |
| Food Service | |
| Food Service Plan Review and major remodeling of existing establishment* | |
| 1,926 | |
| MobileSTFU Plan Review (NEW) | 500 |
| MobileSTFU Plan Review (Change of Ownership) | 250 |
| Fixed Change of Ownership/Use | 250 |
| Remodeling or Renovating of Existing Food Service Establishments (Plan Review) | 50% of new |
| Re-inspection Fee | 100 |
| Compliance/Informal/Formal Enforcement Hearing | 100/200/300 +follow up inspection costs |
| MDARD Requested WellSeptic Inspections | 238 |
| 205 +State Fee |
| Temporary Food Service Establishment |
- Applications must be completed and sent at least 5 days prior to the event.
| 125 + State Fee | |
| Completed application received less than 5 days prior to event | 150 + State Fee |
| Fee for operating without a license | 200 + State Fee |
| Special Transitory Food unit(1) (2) | 112 + State Fee |
| 90 | |
| Annual Food Service Sanitation License (1) (2) (3) | |
| Seating Capacity0 – 25 | 627 +State Fee |
| Seating Capacity26 – 50 | 680 + State Fee |
| Seating Capacity51 – 75 | 820 + State Fee |
| Seating Capacity76 – 100 | 898 + State Fee |
| Seating Capacity101 – over | 1,010 +State Fee |
| Schools (1) (2) |
| 627+ State Fee | |
| Fraternal, Civic, Non-profit and Religious organizations | 627+ State Fee |
| 1. Fee 50% of annual rate after 10/31 for applications for new owner or establishment. | |
| 2. Penalty fee (% of food service license fee) for license renewal after April 30 th. | |
| 75% penalty + admin. action referral |
| 3. If the food service establishment operates less than 6 months/year the license fee will be ½ the regular fee as stated in the fee schedule. |
| *Fee includes consultation and inspections for construction, pre-opening, opening and operating. |
On Site Service Inspections Septic Tank
The requirements are as follows:
- Application (which can be obtained from the health department or downloaded from the link below)
- Report from a soil scientist. Alternatively, if the property is located within a subdivision, contact the local health authority to see whether soils information is on file. Layout of the site. The plan must include the footprint of the house with dimensions, the distances between property lines, the position of the driveway, the pool, and any other features that the homeowner want for the property (tennis court, detached garage, etc.)
- There is a $275 price for residential permits and a $250 fee for business permits. The fee covers the first examination of the lot, the design of the system, and the final inspection once the system has been implemented. All-level floor layouts are available (Complete plans not required). A letter or legal-sized piece of paper must be used for this.
Septic Tanks for the Average Homeowner (for new construction and repair permits for septic systems) Fees for: New Construction (including demolition) Residentia:$275 Construction of a new building Commercial: based on the number of gallons in the system. Make contact with the appropriate department. Permit for Residential Repairs: $100 Commercial Repair Permit: Determined by the number of gallons of system. Make contact with the appropriate department. Residential
- Residential Septic Permit Application
- Residential Repair Permit Application
- New Residential Septic Permit Application
Commercial
- Commercial Septic Permit Application
- Commercial Septic Repair Permit Application
- New Commercial Septic Permit Application
Fees must be paid at the time of application submission.
Application form for existing septic system and well evaluation
Fees for the following services:Septic System Evaluation $100Well Evaluation $75 Existing System Evaluation $140Septic Well $140Septic System Evaluation Application fees must be paid at the time of submission of the application.
Approval for Construction Application
Swimming pools, expansions, supplementary constructions, and interior finishes are all subject to approval application. Requirements:
- Plan of the property, including a drawing of the house and structure (including measurements of the structure, as well as distances between it and the property boundaries and the current home)
- Floor layouts are available upon request (if needed). Letter or legal-size paper must be used for this
- A $100 application fee is required.
Permission for the Construction of a Building *Please note that site clearance must be obtained from the local Planning and Zoning department. This file may only be viewed or printed if the user has Adobe Acrobat Reader® installed on his or her computer. This is a free download that may be obtained from Adobe’s website.
Septic Systems
Septic systems that are in good working order are beneficial to your family, your budget, and the environment. You can safeguard your septic system and save money on costly repairs by following a few easy procedures. Your groundwater, as well as the lakes, rivers, and beaches of Puget Sound, will benefit as well!
What is a septic system?
Consider them to be similar in size to a sewage treatment facility, but considerably smaller. They collect, store, treat, and dispose of the items that you flush or pour down the toilet. Various sorts of systems are available to choose from. Some are straightforward, requiring merely a tank and a drainage area. Others are more complicated, necessitating the use of pumps, filters, or materials that have been particularly created. For further information, please see our 3D septic system models.
A maintained septic system keeps you and the environment healthy and helps:
- Reduce the likelihood of individuals becoming ill as a result of untreated sewage
- Reduce the likelihood of groundwater and surface water becoming contaminated
- You will save money and your system’s life will be extended.
Our role is to:
- Consult with septic system specialists to approve the design, placement, and installation of the system
- Property owners should be educated on the need of keeping their septic systems in good working order.
What are the regulations?
- Consult with septic system specialists to approve the design, placement, and installation of the system
- And Property owners should be educated on how to properly maintain their septic systems.
Resources
- The Septic Systems 101 webinar is available online
- Designers and Engineers —A list of designers and engineers that are qualified to work in Pierce County is available online
- Septic Systems 101 webinar is available online
- Installation Companies —A list of companies that have been certified to work in Pierce County
- Fee Schedule — Fee Schedule for On-Site Sewage, Wells, and Water Resources Services
- Complaints can be lodged against a Pierce County Septic Service Company or a person. A list of firms that have been certified to work in Pierce County’s septic system service industry.
Have questions? We have answers!
For further information, please contact us at [email protected] or (253) 649-1925.
Inspections for Sewage Treatment/Septic Systems
Regarding our inspections during the COVID-19 epidemic, please refer to the fact sheet attached for further details. Household sewage treatment systems that are mechanical are inspected once a year, while non-mechanical systems are inspected every five years. Water quality professionals locate water treatment systems, inspect them to ensure that they are properly maintained and operated, and offer useful information to system owners. A optional septic system examination service is also available to house purchasers, which helps them avoid unexpected repair or replacement expenditures after they have purchased a property from the company.
Routine Inspection Program
Regarding our inspections during the COVID-19 epidemic, please refer to the fact sheet attached for further details. Household sewage treatment systems that are mechanical are inspected once a year, while non-mechanical systems are inspected every five years by staff. Water quality professionals locate water treatment systems, inspect them to ensure that they are properly maintained and operated, and offer useful information to the system’s proprietors.
A optional septic system examination service is also available to home purchasers, which helps them avoid unexpected repair or replacement expenditures after they have purchased a house. The STS Service Provider or Hauler can be located by clicking here.
Sewage Treatment System Inspection Results Online
Those interested in seeing the findings of sewage treatment system (STS) inspections conducted by the Health District may now do so online (Hamilton County, excluding the cities of Cincinnati, Norwood, and Springdale). Important: Please keep in mind that inspection findings are updated on a weekly basis and reflect the most recent inspection at the time of the most recent update. To view the inspection findings, locate the address of the property on the map below and click on it. To examine information on a sewage treatment system, after a property is displayed, click on the red, green, black, or yellow “points” to the right of the address.
Please view in large map format by clicking here.
Please see this link for our updated website map. The STS Map Legend may be viewed by clicking here. Remember that the inspection information presented here reflects only the state of the sewage treatment system at the time of the inspection. This is critical to understand. Although a single inspection can show whether or not a sewage treatment system has passed inspection, the system’s inspection history (the number of approvals and disapprovals) can provide a more accurate picture of the system’s performance over time.
DISCLAIMER: DO NOT RELY UPON THIS SEWAGE TREATMENT SYSTEM INSPECTION REPORT AND/OR OPERATION PERMIT FOR ANY SALES OR FINANCIAL TRANSACTIONS.
The information in this inspection report is based on the present circumstances of the sewage treatment system at the time of the inspection. Having a successful inspection report and/or operation permit does not guarantee that the sewage treatment system meets today’s water quality effluent standards, that it has an approved discharge location, or that it will continue to perform satisfactorily in the future. It also does not guarantee that future changes to the home, structure, or property will allow this system to be permitted.
What systems are inspected?
Inspections of all domestic sewage treatment systems with mechanical components (aeration) are performed once a year, while inspections of systems without mechanical components (non-mechanical) are performed once every fifty-eight (58) months. Inspection staff members locate systems, ensure that they are properly maintained and operate them, and offer valuable information to system owners throughout the inspection.
How inspections are conducted
Health District personnel will either knock on your door or ring your doorbell prior to checking the system you have installed. You will be served with a green door hanger if you do not react within 24 hours. The reason for the inspection, the date and time of the inspection, as well as the name and phone number of the inspector, are all listed on this door hanger. The inspection of your residential sewage treatment system will thereafter be carried out by the staff.
Identifying Hamilton County Public Health Staff
Staff members generally dress in polo shirts or other shirts or jackets that are emblazoned with the insignia of the Health District. In addition, all employees are required to wear photo identification badges.
Permits
A copy of the inspection report and invoice will be provided to you as soon as the inspection is done and all paper work has been completed.
If your system has been authorized, you will be required to pay your charge within 30 days of receiving your invoice, after which your permit will be given. If you want further information, please contact (513) 946-7863.
Real Estate Transfer Inspections
Getting in Touch with Inspectors Inspections of non-mechanical household sewage treatment systems include the following: Household sewage treatment systems that are mechanical in nature (aerobic):
Health Department to begin random inspections of septic systems across Adam County
Jason Environmental Health Director for the Adams County Health Department, and Dr. William Hablitzel, Director of the Adams County Health Department, are shown from left to right in this photo. The Economic Development Office will give grant cash to assist with system maintenance and replacement costs. – Patricia Beech contributed to this article. The odds are good that your septic system isn’t functioning properly if your drains are sluggish and a foul “Porta-Potty” stink has permeated your house.
- According to the state Department of Health, faulty waste collection systems are a widespread issue throughout the state.
- Ohio Sewage Treatment System Rules were amended in 2015 in response to the rising problem, and they were put into effect the following year.
- Septic systems in Adams County must now be inspected on-site by local health department personnel as part of a new Operation and Maintenance program designed to protect the public’s drinking water and improve the quality of water in lakes, streams, and rivers.
- In the Adams County Health Department, Environmental Health Director Jason Work explained that the number of failing septic systems and sewer treatment plants was what prompted the law’s implementation.
- Additionally, in addition to performing inspections, the department is obligated to issue Operation and Maintenance (O M) Permits for each waste system at predetermined periods of time, depending on the kind of septic system being utilized.
- $50 is required for the examination and issuance of the O M permit.
- The only thing we’ll be checking for is that your system is running as it should; we’re not coming to pick apart your knitting.” In order to remain in compliance, each permit will specify what actions property owners must take.
Officials from the Ohio Department of Health are optimistic that the new guidelines will assist people in maintaining septic tank systems that efficiently gather, treat, and distribute residential wastewater.
William Hablitzel, believes the problem with leaky sewage systems is one that is “out of sight, out of mind” for most people.
Smith.
Laut Hablitzel, untreated sewage includes several disease pathogens, including Hepatitis A and e-coli bacterial strains such as salmonella, which may pollute both water and soil, causing them to become contaminated.
“By implementing effective treatment methods, we are able to lessen the danger to the community,” adds Work.
Failure to upgrade or repair a malfunctioning septic system in accordance with the new standards and guidelines might result in legal action and court-imposed fines of up to $150 per day, according to the new rules and guidelines.
“We’re working with the Economic Development Office to ensure that we have grant money available to assist residents with the price of upgrades,” says the mayor.
Adams County’s CHIP program is more than just a government program, according to Johnson.
According to Johnson, “Our Adams County CHIP team, which has received unanimous approval from the Board of Commissioners, is devoted to providing high-quality housing for our local citizens.
Owner Rehabilitation is concerned with addressing inadequate conditions in order to ensure that owner-occupied houses are safe, healthy, long-lasting, energy-efficient, and reasonably priced.
The program standards, which take into account household income, the priority rating of the home, the housing need, and the availability of cash, determine who qualifies for funding and who receives funding priority.
“We will make every effort to get whatever available monies to alleviate this burden,” she stated.
This grant is intended to assist low- to moderate-income households who are in need of financial assistance to replace their deteriorating septic systems.
Contact the Adams County Health Department at (937) 544-5547, Ext. 101 or 103 for further information or to book a health department inspection appointment.
Septic Systems
A septic system, if properly planned, installed, and maintained, can offer long-term, effective wastewater treatment for households and businesses that do not have access to municipal sewage treatment. In the event that a septic system is not properly maintained, it may need to be replaced, which might cost thousands of dollars. Furthermore, a failing system has the potential to pollute groundwater, which might be used as a source of drinking water. Septic system inspections are provided by the Health Department in Boone, Campbell, Grant, and Kenton Counties, among other places.
George A.
If you prefer, you may mail your completed papers to the following address: NKY HealthATTN: George Moore8001 Veterans Memorial DriveFlorence, KY41042
Steps to receive approval for a new septic system
- In this step, the person selects a building site for their residence (house, mobile home, or commercial business)
- The person, or their agent, submits an application (WordorPDF) to the Health Department for an inspection of the site. The following items must be included in the application:
- The address and/or location of the site in question
- Staked site boundary lines and site measurements should be recorded, and a survey plat copy should be supplied. Identify the locations of existing structures, wells, ponds and streams, as well as any easements, roads and driveways, if any
- A map indicating the planned or present position of the structure to be served by the system, as well as the proposed system location (area to be tested). Make a note of any potential alternate areas as well. In the case of private residences: The number of bedrooms, whether or not a garbage disposal will be installed, and whether or not the house will have a basement are all important considerations. For commercial usage, please include the following information: kind of company, number of employees and shifts, type of plumbing fittings planned, and any other pertinent information
- It is necessary to pay a $300 site evaluation charge at the time the application is filed. If the findings of the site inspection indicate that there is a usable space for a potential septic system installation, the inspector will mark the location of the usable area. Construction activities such as grading, heavy equipment traffic, the placement of building materials, and other associated activities are not permitted in this region. This is done in order to avoid compaction and soil structure damage, both of which might have a detrimental impact on the system’s capacity to function. Disturbance of the allowed area in the way stated above may result in the site evaluation being nullified. Unless specifically prohibited, normal mowing or bush hogging of the area would be permitted
- An applicant will be given with a copy of the site evaluation report when it has been completed. There will be a list of the inspector’s soil characteristic findings in the report, as well as information on the bare minimum system choice. The certified installer is responsible for determining the specific system component requirements associated with any options selected. However, if the installer or applicant has any doubts about the information provided, they can simply call the health inspector for further information. If the site got a suitable or provisionally appropriate overall rating, the certified installer may submit an application to the Health Department for a permit to build a septic system on the property in question. At that time, all relevant papers, as well as the permission money, must be presented to the city. The site evaluation findings about site features, as well as the installer’s system design proposal, will be used to determine whether or not to grant the permit. Once the septic system has been installed, the installer must seek an inspection from the Health Department before any of the work may be reimbursed.
Please keep in mind that the actions outlined above should be completed prior to any development taking place on the site. This will allow the property owner to learn about the restrictions of the site, obtain quotes on various solutions, and ensure that the property owner complies with all applicable regulations imposed by the Health Department.
Steps to receive approval to repair or alter a septic system
- Please keep in mind that the actions outlined above should be completed prior to any building on the property commencing. A site survey will enable a property owner to determine the constraints of a particular site, obtain quotes for potential systems, and ensure that the property owner adheres to all applicable health department regulations.
Requesting an inspection of an existing septic system
Existing septic systems may need to be evaluated in connection with the selling of a property, the construction of an addition, or the reconstruction of a home following a natural disaster. In the event that you are selling or acquiring a house, you can request that the Health Department check the current septic system. Local building code offices mandate that an existing septic system be inspected by the Health Department prior to the issue of a building or modification permit. Please fill out the form (Word, PDF) and send it together with the appropriate cost in order to request an inspection.
More information
The Environmental Protection Agency of the United States has published A Homeowner’s Guide to Septic Systems. Kentucky’s septic system requirements are shown here (902 KAR 10:085)
Septic System Installation & Inspection
The purpose of this program is to reduce potential health dangers while also protecting surface and ground water by ensuring that septic systems in Cayuga County are in proper working order. The services provided by this program are in the following areas:
- Cayuga County Sanitary Code mandates that all septic systems be examined on an annual basis and at the time of any property transfer
- Enforces this code. Septic system proposals for new, modified, and repaired septic systems are reviewed. Investigates concerns involving septic tanks and systems
- Provides technical help to installers and designers of septic systems
- Contains directories of licensed septic system installers and septic tank pumpers
- And Answers queries from the public on the operation and maintenance of septic systems
Instructions for a Routine Inspection
- Engage the services of a Cayuga County certified inspector to do a septic system inspection. A list of certified installers may be found on the right-hand side of this page, under the heading List. Some of your fittings, such as your toilet, will be dyed during the inspection, and the inspector will flow 20 gallons of water each bedroom, up to a total of 100 gallons. Upon completion of the inspection, the inspector will give the documents over to the Health Department. It will be the responsibility of the system owner to fix the septic system if it does not pass the inspection.
Instructions for a Property Transfer Inspection
A septic system inspection and septic tank pumping are required prior to the transfer of any property in Cayuga County, as mandated by the county’s Sanitary Code. Prior to draining out the tank, it is recommended that the septic system be examined. Following pumping of the tank, it will be essential to wait 30 days before the septic system may be examined for proper operation and maintenance. It is important to note that if you are due for a standard sanitary code inspection but are planning to sell your house soon, you may want to consider having the property transfer examination performed instead of the usual inspection.
The property transfer inspection is valid for one year and would be considered a routine inspection for the purposes of the routine inspection.
- Engage the services of a Cayuga County certified inspector to do a septic system inspection. A list of certified installers may be found on the right-hand side of this page, under the heading List. If the property is presently occupied, the inspector will color some of your fittings, such as your toilet, and run 55 gallons of water for each bedroom as part of the inspection process. If the house is not occupied for three days, an additional 110 gallons of water per bedroom will be supplied. Upon completion of the inspection, the inspector will give the documents over to the Health Department. As part of the property transfer process, it is also required that the septic tank be pumped and that a “Waste Transporter Certification” form be submitted to the Health Department for approval. A list of registered septic tank pumpers may be found on the right-hand side of this page, under the heading List. If the septic system fails the inspection, the system owner will be obliged to make repairs or modifications to the septic system. If the septic system passes the inspection and the Health Department receives documentation that the tank has been pumped, a discharge permission will be given
- However, the permit must be renewed every three years.
Contractors – District Health Department 10
Individuals who wish to install private wells or septic systems must obtain permission from the District Health Department10. DHD 10 will conduct an evaluation of the site, design the septic system, select the location for the well installation, and verify the completed work. Individuals are permitted to build their own septic systems in their homes. District Health Department10 must provide a license to all other businesses. The owner or contractor must call the local sanitarian at least twenty-four hours before covering or back filling a septic system in order to do a final inspection.
It is recommended that you pump your septic tank every 3 to 4 years by the District Health Department10.
Quicklinks
Code de la Santé MI DEQ stands for the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality.
Forms
Fee Schedule for Well and Septic Permit Applications in 2022 Form for a Contractor’s AffidavitSewage Removal Contractor Registration is required. The ApplicationBuilding Permit Authorization Application is a type of authorization application.
Commercial WellSeptic
Septic systems that produce less than 1000 gallon per day (gpd) may be subject to inspection under the District Health Department10’s local sanitary code requirements. Using the Michigan Criteria for Subsurface Sewage Disposal, all commercial septic systems with a capacity larger than 1000 gpd but less than 10,000 gpd are subject to inspection. The vast majority of commercial wells fall into one of two categories: Type II public water supplies or Type III public water supplies. Send us an email at [email protected].
Quick Links
MI DEQ stands for the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality. Water Supply that is not provided by a community
Forms
Fee Schedule for the Year 2022 Well and Septic Permit Application Contractor Affidavit FormSewage Disposal Contractor Registration Well and Septic Permit Application The ApplicationBuilding Permit Authorization Application is a type of authorization application.
Soil Evaluation
If you are considering acquiring a piece of land where a septic system will be installed, you should consider applying for a Soil Evaluation. In order to determine the kind of soils, the depth to seasonal high ground water, and the depth to confining layer, the sanitarian will visit the site and conduct soil borings on the land. All three of the considerations listed above play a part in deciding whether or not a property is suitable for the installation of a septic system.
Forms
Fee Schedule for the Year 2022Well and Septic Permit Application
Inspections
More than 90 percent of the new septic systems constructed in our 10-county area are inspected by the District Health Department10. It is necessary for contractors and house owners to consult their local sanitarian at least 24 hours before covering the septic system.
Forms
Form for Making a Complaint
Operation and Maintenance (O&M) Program
Detailed information on the sewage program run by the Union County Health Department may be found here. Septic system information may be found on this page, and homeowners can also learn more about septic system permits and inspection requirements by visiting our online database.
Please use the links provided below to get to certain topic areas, or just scroll down this page. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact our office at 937-642-2053.
| Initial Assessments | Assement Phase-in Schedule | O M Permits | O M Inspections |
| Inspection Options | EPA Grant Information | O M Staff Profiles | FAQ’s |
| HOW TO GET A COPY OF YOUR ASSESSMENT REPORT | Online Database of Septic Systems |
Chapter 3701-29 of the Ohio Administrative Code. OAC-3701-29 Supplement to the UCHD Sewage Rules The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) established new private sewage legislation in January of this year (Ohio Administrative Code: Chapter 3701-29). Every private septic system, also known as a sewage treatment system (STS), is required to obtain an operation permit and to be checked on a regular basis under the terms of these new legislation. Thus, it will be possible to verify that STS is functioning properly and is not contaminating the environment.
A high number of systems necessitates the completion of initial evaluations each township, with only around three townships per year being included to the O M program beginning in 2016.
(Please note that this timetable is subject to change.)
| 2016-17:Claiborne, Leesburg, Taylor 2017-18:Jackson, Washington, York, Liberty 2018:Darby, Dover, Jerome, Millcreek 2019:Allen, Union, Paris |
*Phase in is by township. Years are subject to change.
Return to the top of the page The Union County Health Department will be performing preliminary evaluations to establish the kind of private septic system installed at each residence or business in the county. There are no fees associated with this initial evaluation. These evaluations will include a review of documents as well as on-site inspections if necessary. If the health department has adequate information on file, your private septic system may not be subjected to an initial in-person inspection and evaluation.
It is possible to see the current map above, albeit it is subject to change if it is deemed necessary.
Townships set for review in 2016 include Claibourne, Leesburg, and Taylor Townships.
Inspectors from the Health Department will normally visit during normal business hours and can be identified by any of the following characteristics:
| 1. Clothing or safety vest with the agency logo;2. A vehicle marked with the agency’s logo;3. An agency ID badge;4. Agency letter/ paperwork identifying their purpose |
You are always welcome to contact our department at (937) 642-2053 if you have any questions or concerns about our services. The inspector will knock on the door to begin his or her inspection. If no one answers the phone, they will stroll around the property to inspect all of the components of the septic system that are accessible. They will not enter any home, building, or storage facility; all of the evaluation will take place outside of these structures. Following the completion of the evaluation, the property owner will be provided with a report as well as contact information.
- We advise the property owner to contact us if he or she has any queries.
- The Union County Health Department has invested in an online database for spetic system evaluation records as a result of input received from people of Union County in recent years.
- The database contains information such as the date of the assessment, the kind of system, the frequency of inspections, and the status of the system (satisfactory, unsatisfactory or unknown).
- Click on the map to be taken to a dashboard where you can track our progress!
- If you would like a copy of this evaluation, please send an email to [email protected] with your mailing address attached.
- You should get a copy of your report within 1-2 business days after submitting your request.
- Following the steps outlined above, you will be able to obtain a duplicate of your report.
(Click here to get a map of the area) While visiting your property for another purpose (such as water sampling or a nuisance complaint), we may be able to perform your initial evaluation at that time as well as the next.
O M permits will be delivered to septic system owners in November 2016 for the prorated 2017-2019 Operation Permit, which will be issued in November 2016.
You will get this bill in the mail, along with more information on when and how you may pay for your license or permit.
2020, 2025) when the phase-in procedure is complete.
For example, in the fall of 2019, every septic system owner will get a charge for the renewal of their permission for the years 2020-2025.
Return to the top of the page The inspection of every septic system will be required starting in 2020, and the frequency of the inspection will vary based on the type of system you possess.
The sorts of systems that will be reviewed are listed in the table below, along with how frequently they will be inspected.
| Table 1. Inspection Requirements. | |
| The following are the inspection cycles for the various types of Sewage Treatment System (STS). | |
| Frequency Group (in order of risk, highest to lowest) | Requirement |
| A. Aerators, discharging systems, NPDES, etc. Regular Aerators NPDES Aerators Drip Distribution Systems Aerator to Leach Aerator to Mound Aerator to SSSF Aerator to Peat/Sphagnum Moss Filter Aerator to any other STS Unknown STS (until confirmed as something specific) | Annual Inspection (5x per 5 years of the permit and no more than one accepted annually) |
| B1. Septic Tank (ST) to filter beds, lift stations, etc. ST to SSSF (Discharging) ST to Mound ST to SB2 ST to Peat/Sphagnum Moss Filter (Discharging) ST to Lift Station to Mound ST to Filter Bed (Discharging) ST to Lift Station to Leach Lift Station to any other STS B2. Septic Tank (ST) to holding tanks, filter beds, etc. Holding Tanks ST to Filter Bed (Non Discharging) STS with sump pumps in the perimeter drain | Two Inspections per Permit Cycle (2x per 5 years of the permit but no more than one accepted annually) |
| C. Septic Tank to leach field | One inspection per Permit Cycle (1x per 5 years) |
Following your first assessment, you will be able to select from one of the three choices listed below for who will be responsible for doing continuing inspections on your system.
- Union County Health Department is a registered service provider, and the Union County Health Department is a registered property owner.
1.Service Providers who have registered with the government There is a list of service providers registered with the Union County Health Department (UCHD) that are authorized to examine septic systems available from the department. Each service provider charges a price for the assessment, which varies from service provider to service provider and is determined by the service provider. The inspection papers will be sent to UCHD by the service provider (both the homeowner and service provider have an equal responsibility to submit all necessary paperwork to UCHD).
It is preferable to have your septic system assessed by a registered service provider because most service providers are also able to do maintenance on your system, which UCHD is unable to do.
Some certified service providers just do inspections, and if they discover a problem with your system, they will not be able to correct the problem.
Service Providers who have registered with the government 2.
If there is a problem with your septic system after it has been inspected, the UCHD will recommend steps to take to ensure that it is operating properly.
** The UCHD will not be responsible for any septic system repairs that you may require.
The Registered Owner of the Property (primary residence only) Third, if you own the land, you will be able to conduct inspections on the Sewage Treatment System (STS) of your principal house beginning in 2020.
1) First and foremost, you’ll need to take and pass a service provider exam.
Following successful completion of the test, you must submit a certificate of completion to UCHD.
Individuals who are solely conducting service on their home house are exempt from paying registration fees and meeting bonding requirements, according to the law.
3) In order for your application to be processed, you must first get instruction on the sort of septic system you have.
Once your application has been granted, you will be notified by the government that you have been accepted as a registered service provider.
Every year during which you will be examining your system, you will be needed to register as a homeowner.
Any work done on the STS must be reported to the UCHD within three months after completion.
Application for a Service Provider If you have any questions about your service provider, please contact UCHD before you make any system modifications (not including equipment repairs).
UCHD will be asking for more funding in 2018 with the intent of putting them to use in 2019, IF AWARDED.
If you have any questions, please contact Allison Zandarski.
Is my system grandfathered in, so exempting me from the Operational Maintenance program?
In Union County, every septic system will be included in the O M program by the year 2020.
As a result, no system is free from the O M program, which is mandated under the 2015 state-wide sewage laws mandating the program.
This is not always the case.
The use of expensive repairs and replacements will only be used as a last option, and they will be avoided at all costs.
Septic systems that are malfunctioning and posing an urgent threat to human health and the environment will need to be remedied as soon as they are discovered.
When do I need to pay for my O M permit for the 2017-2019 season, and how do I pay for it?
When your charge is due will be specified on the bill.
4.
The frequency with which you are examined is determined on the sort of system you have.
5.
Yes.
Renters are not permitted to conduct inspections.
6.
The operation permit is linked to your septic system and will follow you if you decide to relocate with your septic system in tow.
Permits to operate are renewed in years that conclude in 0 or 5, for example, 2020 and 2025.
Like all of the other systems in Union County, you will be permitted to operate by the end of 2016.
Beginning in 2017, you will be automatically switched to the new O M program and will continue to be inspected on an annual basis after that.
You may find out more about different inspection choices by visiting this page.
Send an email to [email protected] with the address of the property you like to get a report on at [email protected].
You should expect to get a copy of your report within 1-2 business days after submitting your request.
What should I do in order to prepare for my initial assessment?
However, doing some tasks ahead of time might assist your inspector in determining the sort of system and ensuring that the system is functioning properly when they arrive.
Please see the following link for a list of our registered sewage carriers.
If your system type or location cannot be determined during your assessment, you will be placed in the group of system types that are most frequently examined and will be reviewed once a year after that.
We will investigate your claim.
Typical examples of what should be draining into your septic system are washing machines, toilets, and sink drains.
Installers of Sewage Treatment Systems who are registered Sewage haulers who are licensed and insured Return to the top of the page These are some of the members of our team who may come to your house to do O M assessments and inspections.
To find out more about them, simply click on their images! Return to the top of the page
