*: Which best describes your role in visiting our site today? Electrical connections should need very little maintenance if your pump controls and alarms are functioning as designed. A homeowner maintaining a pump system should minimize electrical hazards where appropriate. Include the parcel number and street address and we will search our files for the drawings. Gloves are the first line of defense for the average do-it-yourselfer. During this time when many are staying at home, it is important to keep a careful eye on actions that may affect your sewer or septic system. . Instead, use boiling water or a drain snake. On-site Sewage Systems Chapter 246-272A WAC. For more information, click the buttons below. Baby wipes, cleaning wipes, or any moist towelettes. . Failing septic systems can result in sewage backing up in the home or entering local waterways and groundwater supplies posing a public health threat. Yakima. They include both new construction and repairs to failing systems. The effluent is distributed via pressure throughout the drainfield by utilizing small diameter pipes with small holes to distribute the liquid throughout the drainfield. Terms of Use 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. Commercial properties and non-owner occupied properties may also qualify. Pouring toxins down your drain can kill these organisms and harm your septic system. Privacy Policy If there is no record drawing for your septic system you will need to contact a certified O&M Provider to request a record drawing be completed and submitted to public health along with their inspection. Lids will likely be located near both ends of the tank. If you put a lot of water down the drain (from inefficient or leaky toilets, washers, showerheads, and sink faucets), the tank can't settle completely and you may need to pump more often. 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. Don't select the large-load cycle if you're washing a small amount of laundry. What you flush, how much you flush, and how much water you run down the drain will affect the function and performance of your septic system. The grease laden paper towel can then be disposed of in your trash. Probe suspected tank locations first, rather than digging up the soil only to find nothing. We Issue Septic Permits, Inspect Final Septic Installations, And Investigate Complaints Associated With On-Site Sewage Systems Septic System Failure 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. The pollutants harm local ecosystems by killing native plants, fish, and shellfish. Repair leaky faucets and plumbing fixtures. Approximately a third of Washington homes use septic systems for wastewater treatment. State law (Chapter 246-272A-0270) requires that homeowners inspect and maintain their septic systems to ensure it is functioning properly. Septic systems that have a curtain drain installed around them, often are dependent on a functioning curtain drain. Additional water, clean or not, taxes your soils ability to accept all of the liquids landing on the soil. Healthy septic systems are good for your family, your wallet and the environment. Since 2008, Washington state law and Island County code have required that all septic systems be inspected at the time of property transfer. 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. Proper care and maintenance of your septic system also occurs around the area where your system is installed. Public health licenses these professionals, and maintains a list of System Maintenance Providers. This program has continued with funding from the Washington State Department of Health to perform public education and outreach activities, offer rebates to encourage septic system inspections, and improve tracking and reporting capabilities. Lids are heavy and may be difficult to remove. Protects the Environment Malfunctioning septic systems release bacteria, viruses, and chemicals that eventually enter streams, rivers, lakes, Puget Sound, and the ocean. 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. A property owner with a pump system must have additional training to demonstrate competency with pump systems. Food Safety, Land Development, Environmental Hazards, Water Recreation & Public Schools . It is also recommended the first inspection of any OSS be done professionally. Another way to dispose of grease is to let the grease cool in the pan, where it can be scraped off using a paper towel. Generally, the more people in the home, the more often you need to pump. Keep accurate records of your septic system. Proper decontamination of equipment is an important task that will minimize your risk of becoming ill. While exposure to raw sewage is readily evident, exposure to residues from contaminated equipment or clothing may not be apparent, yet can still result in illness. The final treatment occurs in the soil of your drainfield. 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. If youd like a reply, please provide an email address. 411 N 5th St Shelton WA 98584 (360) 427-9670 . Subtract the smaller number from the larger; the difference is the amount of water you used since the previous time you read the meter. Search for septic and drinking water records in our online search tool. These areas provide a transmission corridor for viruses and bacteria to enter the body. If Public Health does not have a record for your septic system, it probably means that your system was installed a long time ago, prior to any requirement to create an as-built. Concrete lids may become cemented into place due to the shrinking and swelling of concrete. Any exceptions to the above conditions must have written approval of Skagit County Environmental Public Health staff. If you successfully locate your septic tank and remove its lids, the next step is to locate your drainfield. Additives and old cures such as using cabbage, hamburger, yeast, etc., have no beneficial effect on your septic system, but will lead to more frequent pumping of your septic system. The Washington State Legislature, Departments of Ecology and Health and many counties have put in significant and consistent work over past two decades to create this program. Figuring out how many gallons of water per day that you have consumed, will allow you to evaluate if your septic system is operating per the original design. Poor landscaping can cause septic system problems, including premature failure of your septic system. The final step to evaluating your system is completing the appropriate Skagit County Health Department On-Site Sewage System (OSS) Homeowner Report. Thank you for your patience as we continue to update our new website. It should be noted that at the time of a property transfer, a licensed O&M Specialist must conduct the inspection. Using a garbage disposal will increase the amount of solids entering the septic tank, requiring more frequent pumping. However, it can take up to 60 days to fulfill your request. Household chemicals like gasoline, oil, pesticides, antifreeze, and paint. Bellevue, WA 98007, Phone: 206-477-8050 (answered until 3:00 pm), Link/share our site at www.kingcounty.gov/oss, Find certified small business contractors and suppliers, Private wells, plumbing and onsite sewage systems, Pollution Identification and Correction Program (PIC), On-site Sewage System Technical Advisory Committee Bylaws, On-site Sewage System Technical Advisory Committee Membership Application, Quarter 1 OSS TAC Meeting March 30, 2022, 9-11am on Zoom. Maintaining your septic system will save you money as well as help maintain or improve surface and groundwater quality in Skagit County. 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. Directing surface water away from your tanks and drainfield will help your drainfield function as well as possible. Besides human poop and pee, toilet paper, and soap used for washing, not much else should be going down your drain. Environmental Health Contact numbers: Shelton: 360-427-9670, Ext. A Pressure Distribution system will have all of the following major components, each of which should be thoroughly inspected: plumbing; septic tank(s); pump tank; and a drainfield. Rinse: Start by rinsing the equipment and tools with water from your garden hose. *: Regional On-Site Sewage System Loan Program, Copyright Washington State Department of Ecology. . These gases can sink or rise, displacing oxygen that you need to breathe. Garbage disposals are frequently installed in new homes. They allow for development in outlying communities, help protect groundwater and waterways, and reduce exposure to untreated sewage. That way, they can perform any required maintenance while on site. Pumpers may charge you extra to locate and/or dig up the lids to the septic tank so that they are able to pump the septic tank. Exposing these areas to sewage increases a persons risk of contracting an illness. ), all septic system parts should be vented thoroughly. A Marine Recovery Area (MRA) was established to protect especially sensitive marine waters from pollution from poorly functioning or failing on-site sewage systems (OSS). Contact information; Hours & location Older septic tanks might not be sized appropriately for your home, especially if your home has been remodeled and is now larger. Records of its size and location may be available at your local health department. As of Sept. 1, homeowners with septic systems in every Washington county have access to affordable financing for septic repair and replacement. Entry page for Thurston County Environmental Health Septic System Program: Permits, Operational Certificates, Septic System Operation and Maintenance, Septic System Evaluation of Properties for Sale, Rules and Regulations Enforcement, List of Certified Septic Contractors, Low-interest Loan Program . Using a garbage disposal on a septic system is not recommended. A typical conventional gravity system will not have any mechanical devices to convey water or material; gravity will do all of the required work. Landscaping in and around your septic system is important. Contact us at ehsepticsystems@tpchd.orgor (253) 649-1925. The septic tank will provide room for the solids to settle out and begin to decompose. In the area near your drainfield, arrange products and tools where you can: Septic systems that contain a pump also include an electrical element. The scale should be described on your as-built. How would you like to receive your "as-built": Before 1975, permits were not required by law. Sewage related records are typically marked with an "SWG". Reduce the risk of contaminating groundwater and surface water. Septic system records can be requested for viewing during office hours at the Health Department from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday. 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. Electrical connections are typically buried and run underground from the dwelling to the pump tank. Use approximately 1 cups of bleach per gallon of water (www.osha.gov) Other products, including peroxide sanitizers are effective too. While they may not have a negative effect on your system, they do fill your septic system with wastes that require removal through pumping. Water coming from roof drains, driveways or other surfaces should be directed away from your septic system. Public Records; Smoke-Free Housing Information; View. As-Built Records Northeast Tri County Health District maintains records of permits for completed on-site sewage systems. Options for inspecting your system include: Pump out your septic tank when needed. Some are simple, using only a tank and a drain field, and others are more complex, requiring pumps, filters, blowers, UV lights, or specially designed materials. RSS Guidance for properties with multiple structures. Related Links Washington State on-site sewage (septic) system rules & regulations (WAC 246-272A) On-Site Sewage Basics A conventional septic system consists of two main parts: the septic tank and the soil drainfield (also referred to as a leachfield, absorption bed or absorption field). see the Washington State Department of . Septic systems use a combination of nature and time-tested technology to treat wastewater from household plumbing produced by bathrooms, kitchen drains, and laundry. Septic tanks are settling chambers that allow time for solids and scum to separate out from wastewater, so clear liquid can safely filter into the drainfield. Household Hazardous Waste Facility: 14104 Ovenell Road, Mount Vernon, WA 98273 The next step required to maintain your system is to dig up and remove your septic tank lids. Proper hygienic practices minimize the risk of exposure to disease causing agents that are found in sewage. Well reports also contain information about location, owner name, driller name, and the quantity of water a well produces. The longevity of your on-site septic system relies heavily on the way that you care for it. Landscape your system properly. Keep water runoff away from your system. 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. They store, treat and dispose of the things you flush or send down drains. 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. Routine inspections save time and money in the long run. Use a brush to clean the hard to reach portions of the tools. These cases may require the help of a licensed O&M Specialist. A properly functioning septic system will allow for the proper venting of these gases, either through a dwellings plumbing system or through vent pipes located near your septic system. It is up to you to use whatever techniques you feel necessary to adequately protect yourself from exposure to raw sewage, and to seek medical assistance if you are exposed. 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. Your as-built or record drawing should describe the location of your drainfield. Your groundwater and Puget Sound lakes, rivers, and beaches benefit, too! Fax: : 360-379-4487. Septic systems lacking records are considered "suspected" o r "assumed" and are colored RED on the . In the plumbing, liquids will carry solid materials out of your dwelling towards downstream components. Be sure to: Complete additional routine maintenance that is required for some system types. 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. You may find junction boxes, wires, or other electrical connections in the pump chamber. The probe can be used to identify the size and orientation of the tank (rectangle vs. round, 4 X 8 foot, etc). Household bleach is a very effective sanitizer for killing bacteria and viruses. System Summary When a failing septic system is fixed, the benefits go beyond the home. Assemble the following items when decontaminating your equipment and tools: Decontamination of equipment or tools should include a four-step process. Check the Washington Department of Labor and Industries to find information about electricians. Again, using the garden hose, rinse the soap from the equipment; this will ensure the soaps do not bind with the sanitizer. Directory Septic Application Turnaround Times This system is called Pump to Gravity Distribution. Greases can congeal anywhere in your plumbing or septic system. The chemicals can alter the natural biological conditions found in your septic system. Remove the equipment and tools from the soap and water mixture. Eliminate or limit the use of a garbage disposal. Vince McGowan, water quality program manager for Ecology. You can hire a septic professional to do the inspection or, if your local health department allows it, you can do the inspection yourself. There are many different types of systems. Be aware that your meter readings may represent all of the water used, including irrigation. Your septic system is not a trash can. In addition, some garbage disposals are capable of grinding or shredding material to a very fine size. In gravity plumbing, liquids will carry solid materials out of your dwelling towards downstream components. Only the liquid sewage without solids called effluent should flow out of your septic tank; this clear effluent will be conveyed by gravity to the drainfield. A 2006 state law (RCW 70.118A) required Puget Sound counties (including King County) to designate MRAs where shellfish growing areas are closed due to bacterial pollution (or if closure is likely), or where bacteria or nitrogen are seriously affecting water quality. They include both new construction and repairs to failing systems. records on any property. Once you submit your quiz and contact information, we will have a record of you completing Septics 101. See Ecology's. Cat litter, pet poop, condoms, tampons, sanitary napkins, disposable diapers, paper towels, facial tissue, hand wipes, hair, cigarette butts, and coffee grounds are only some of the items people flush into their septic systems, but shouldnt. Previously, Craft3 offered Clean Water Loans on a more-limited basis in partnership with specific counties. There are many different types of systems. Never pour oil-based paints, solvents, or large volumes of toxic cleaners down the drain. Old homes may not have a septic permit or the as-built may be unreliable. Evaluating, maintaining, or troubleshooting your septic system can expose you to the many pathogens or disease causing organisms found in human waste. 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. If not, please do not enter anything in this field. If your system was installed before 1975, no records may be available. 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. Online portal submissions coming into our offices, or calling us at 509.460.4205. This is a cheap and easy way of assessing your toilet for leaks, which may otherwise be difficult to detect visually. 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,. If at any time you do not feel comfortable or confident in your ability to evaluate and maintain your septic system without the risk of becoming ill or injured, you should hire a licensed O&M Specialist to perform the work for you. Get the latest on local COVID-19 trends, news and helpful resources from Chelan-Douglas Health District, weekly in your inbox.