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- Manage notification subscriptions, save form progress and more. Privacy Policy| Alternate Format Requests | Notice of Nondiscrimination, File Complaint About Provider or Facility, Healthcare Enforcement and Licensing Modernization Solution, Healthcare Professional Credentialing Requirements, Veterans, Service Members and their Families, Emergency Information for Specific Groups, For Public Health & Health Care Providers, Public Health System Resources and Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Local Health Jurisdictions and Tribal Directories, Northwest Center for Public Health Practice. Generally, the more people in the home, the more often you need to pump. A septic system, also known as an on-site sewage system (OSS), stores, treats, and disposes of the things you flush and send down drains. Once the sewage is at the drainfield, it is dispersed via gravity within the drainfield. For information on failing septic systems, please see our Septic Failure Brochure. In these cases, it may be increasingly difficult to maintain your septic system without a significant amount of effort. 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. Household bleach is a very effective sanitizer for killing bacteria and viruses. This is called vertical separation, and you can see in the figure how the vertical separation determines the type of system needed for a specific site. Pouring toxins down your drain can kill these organisms and harm your septic system. Proper maintenance is defined in the code as: At a minimum, wash your hands using soap and hot water. Well-functioning and properly maintained septic systems can effectively treat household wastewater for many years. If still warm and in liquid form, the grease can be poured off easily into a water-tight container such as a coffee can and disposed of in the trash. 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. As-builts are drawings that oftentimes are drawn to scale or otherwise help describe the location of your septic system. If you cannot locate your drainfield, please contact public health or a certified O&M provider for help finding your drainfield. These areas provide a transmission corridor for viruses and bacteria to enter the body. SEPTIC SYSTEM The completed form must include photos of. 400 Belfair: 360-275-4467, Ext. Certifications Fixing minor problems and paying maintenance fees of a few hundred dollars every few years is a bargain compared to the cost of repairing or replacing a malfunctioning system, which can cost thousands of dollars. The more wastewater you produce, the more wastewater the soil must treat and dispose. Treatment component (if applicable) Distribution system. Check the Washington Department of Labor and Industries to find information about electricians. Terms of Use They allow for development in outlying communities, help protect groundwater and waterways, and reduce exposure to untreated sewage. List of certified septic pumpers, installers, and monitoring and maintenance professionals, List of designers and engineers certified to work in Snohomish County, Planning and Development Services Map Portal, Septic Contractors & Certification Services. Septic tank size. The pressure can compact the soil and damage pipes. The scale is typically depicted in inches to feet. If your water meter has a counter, all you need to do is write the number down, along with the time and date and a few days later, look at the meter again. Website Design by Granicus - Connecting People and Government. Previously, Craft3 offered Clean Water Loans on a more-limited basis in partnership with specific counties. Financial assistance The grease laden paper towel can then be disposed of in your trash. Greases can congeal anywhere in your plumbing or septic system. It should be noted that at the time of a property transfer, a licensed O&M Specialist must conduct the inspection. RSS Guidance for properties with multiple structures. With just a few simple steps, you can protect your septicand avoid costly repairs. Failing septic systems can result in sewage backing up in the home or entering local waterways and groundwater supplies posing a public health threat. Environmental Health records (including on-site sewage records) are available online. An inspection report from a homeowner will only be accepted if the report is for that property owners OSS system. The drainfield is the final and the most downstream component in your septic system. 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. Public Records Requests Search for your record drawing using the following steps: Some common reasons that record drawings are not available online: If you do not find a record drawing, please send an email to as-built.help@kingcounty.gov. Most tanks are covered by 12 to 18" of soil. Tank lids come in different shapes and sizes. Do-It-Yourself Septic System Inspection Video. For these reasons, a person should do everything possible to minimize risk of exposure to gas. These records will be helpful if problems occur, and will be valuable to the next owner of your home. see the Washington State Department of . Thurston County also performs this service for a fee. They include both new construction and repairs to failing systems. There may be circumstances where it will be difficult, dangerous, or even impossible for a homeowner to properly evaluate and maintain their OSS by themselves. A septic system, also known as an on-site sewage system (OSS), stores, treats, and disposes of the things you flush and send down drains. . Save you money and extend the life of your system. 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. For this reason, equipment, clothing, and tools that have been splashed with or immersed in effluent or sewage, must be decontaminated. Once these products congeal, they can cause blockages in your system. Wastewater Rules and Regulations | Washington State Department of Health Wastewater Rules and Regulations Fees Chapter 246-272 WAC, Wastewater and Reclaimed Water Use Fees On-site Sewage Systems Chapter 246-272A WAC, On-Site Sewage Systems Chapter 246-273 WAC, On-Site Sewage Additives Please arrive no later than 3:30 p.m. The longevity of your on-site septic system relies heavily on the way that you care for it. Maintaining your system will require the use of your hands to do many things including lifting lids, operating sludge judges, lifting floats, pulling filters, and adjusting valves. There are a number of things you can do to check for leaks. Learn more about water conservation and water recycling. Department of Ecology News Release - Sept. 21, 2021. For more information, click the buttons below. 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. For a typical household, septic tanks are usually pumped every three to five years. Your septic system is not a trash can. . See Department of Health Gravity Septic System inspection guide for a complete checklist and necessary tools. The On-site Sewage Program is responsible for evaluating site conditions for onsite septic systems, characteristics of soil in test pits, setting permitting conditions, and issuing permits for septic systems. Drainfield and the reserve areas. Harsh chemicals including acids, bases, pesticides, herbicides, oils, paints, and varnishes should never be drained into any fixture that leads to your septic system. If your washing machine has load settings, make sure you select the proper load size. Protecting your face, eyes, and mouth will minimize your risk of illness. 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. Contact us at ehsepticsystems@tpchd.orgor (253) 649-1925. Anyone can access those records by searching our online records database. Tacoma, WA 98418-6813 (253) 649-1500 (800) 330-1844 TDD (253) 649-1400. Real estate professionals need to inform both the buyer and seller of this requirement. Care must be taken to properly clean electronic tools such as drills or screw drivers. It is also recommended the first inspection of any OSS be done professionally. View Map 3020 Rucker Avenue Suite 104 Everett, WA 98201 Directions Phone: : 425-339-5250 Fax: : 425-339-5254 Hours Regular hours: Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. Directing surface water away from your tanks and drainfield will help your drainfield function as well as possible. 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. Discharging effluent onto the ground's surface or into surface and ground water is against Washington State law. State law (Chapter 246-272A-0270) requires that homeowners inspect and maintain their septic systems to ensure it is functioning properly. Are you a robot? Your local health agency may have a more stringent inspection requirement. A garbage disposal adds more solid material to your septic system. The pollutants harm local ecosystems by killing native plants, fish, and shellfish. Public Records; Smoke-Free Housing Information; View. Most of the on-site sewage system (OSS) records including site designs, historic inspection reports, record drawings (also known as as-builts) in King County records are available online. coming into our offices, or calling us at 509.460.4205. Garbage disposal and food waste going down the drain, and RV and boat waste dumped into your system, will fill the tank up quicker with solids. Household Hazardous Waste Facility: 14104 Ovenell Road, Mount Vernon, WA 98273 There are many different types of systems. Craft3's Clean Water Loans - Craft3 offers financing for replacement of septic systems in many areas of Washington. Please allow up to five business days for a response. The loan program is a partnership between the Department of Ecology, the Department of Health, local county and health departments, and Craft3, a nonprofit community lender. Septic Applications in 3 Easy Steps. Don't avoid the signs of septic system failure. 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). 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. There is one for gravity systems and a different form for pump/pressure systems: Your form must be completed in its entirety. The scale should be described on your as-built. Keeps You and Your Neighbors Healthy Household wastewater is loaded with disease-causing bacteria and viruses, as well as high levels of nitrogen and phosphorus. 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. 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. We recommend searching by the 12-digit tax parcel number. Public health licenses these professionals, and maintains a list of System Maintenance Providers. 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. Port Townsend, WA 98368. The descriptions below may also help you determine your system type. Wash: Next, immerse the equipment into the 5-gallon bucket containing a soap and water mixture. Our reply (from PAEGAT25) may go to your email's Spam folder. Besides human poop and pee, toilet paper, and soap used for washing, not much else should be going down your drain. Septic systems produce gases that can be explosive or are capable of displacing oxygen. Regular evaluation of your On- Site Septic System (OSS) is required by State (WAC 246-272A-0270) and local (SCC 12.05.160) health regulations. A long piece of rebar can be pounded into the ground to look for a tank. Using a garbage disposal on a septic system is not recommended. If you cannot remove the lid, contact a licensed O&M Specialist. Septic System Records Search; Septic System Maintenance Records Search; Contact. 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. When a failing septic system is fixed, the benefits go beyond the home. Using a garbage disposal will increase the amount of solids entering the septic tank, requiring more frequent pumping. Water usage is likely the biggest contributor to a failed septic system. Sanitize: After thoroughly rinsing the tools, immerse the equipment in a sanitizer solution. A Sanitarian of the Day is available Monday through Friday from 9 to 10:30 a.m. on a first come, first served basis either by . A. A septic system is a huge property investment, so maintaining the one youve got is cheaper than replacing the entire system. Septic systems lacking records are considered "suspected" o r "assumed" and are colored RED on the . A "how to" guide is available on the online permitting portal when applying for a septic permit. Most household wastes, such as harsh chemicals, paints, and oils can be disposed of at your French drains, curtain drains, or shallow diversion ditches can help move water out and around your septic system. Rakes can be used to lift floats and screens. They protect your eyes and mouth from the liquids in your septic system. This does not mean that such a system is illegal or failed; it just means that a homeowner may have trouble conducting the evaluation. If your system is only a septic tank and drainfield, commonly called a gravity system, you need to inspect it at least once every three years. 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 . Food waste from garbage disposals fill the septic tank and can clog the drainfield. Never pour oil-based paints, solvents, or large volumes of toxic cleaners down the drain. Volume of solids in wastewater. Meet septic system requirements before you do. Installers, Designers Avoid chemical drain openers for a clogged drain. A system where there is no record drawing, no access, or if location is difficult to determine, may require a homeowner to hire a licensed O&M Specialist to assist them. Altering the biological balance may discourage the natural proliferation and growth of bacteria found in your system and will not allow for normal and productive decomposition of the wastes you put into your septic system. As-Built Records Northeast Tri County Health District maintains records of permits for completed on-site sewage systems. Protect your system from damage. Septic systems that have a curtain drain installed around them, often are dependent on a functioning curtain drain. If the as-built is accurate, this will allow you to find plumbing stubs, tank lids, distribution boxes, drainfield lines and observation ports. 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 . The goal is to protect public health, to evaluate all septic systems, to identify and repair failing systems, and make records available to the public. Shovels can be used to evaluate the depth of the scum and sludge found in your septic tank. Never mix sanitizers! It has been partially treated but still contains disease-causing bacteria and other pollutants. Whitman. Approximately a third of Washington homes use septic systems for wastewater treatment. Health Programs, Healthy Communities, WIC, Nurse/Family Partnership. The newest counties to join the program are: 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. Mailing Address 615 Sheridan Street Port Townsend, WA 98368. Maintenance The Health District maintains records of existing on-site sewage systems for your convenience. Site Sewage 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. Most of the on-site sewage system (OSS) records including site designs, historic inspection reports, record drawings (also known as as-builts) in King County records are available online. A homeowner maintaining a pump system should minimize electrical hazards where appropriate. Make sure the nursery understands you need plants that are shallow rooted and require little watering. 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. Links. Local landscapers or nurseries can help you select plants that are appropriate for the areas around your septic system. Concrete lids may become cemented into place due to the shrinking and swelling of concrete. If you prefer, download and print a paper application (PDF), and mail to: Washington County Government Center Public Health . The On-Site Sewage Program provides educational, advisory and permitting services for owners of septic systems and certifications for septic system installers, operations and monitoring specialists and septic pumpers. 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. This process may require the use of a stiff bristled brush to remove all contaminants. . Protects Your Property Value An unusable septic system or one in disrepair will lower your property value and poses a potentially costly legal liability. Remember, the soil where your drainfield is located, is capable of disposing of only so much liquid. The On-site System Maintainer (OSM) will inspect your system components: Septic and pump tanks. Customer service counter opens at 9:30 a.m. the first and third Thursdays of every month. Let it cool, harden, and then throw it away in the trash. Well reports also contain information about location, owner name, driller name, and the quantity of water a well produces. Tacoma, WA 98418-6813 (253) 649-1500 (800) 330-1844 TDD (253) 649-1400. Are You Prepared, Severe Weather, Wildfires, Vulnerable Populations & Limited English Proficiency. Oftentimes, the metal handle used to remove the lid may become rotted, and will not support the weight of the lid, nor be usable for popping off the lid. How would you like to receive your "as-built": Before 1975, permits were not required by law. Face shields or goggles are recommended. 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. Tools can be used to further minimize your exposure to the sewage contained in your septic system. This will be located downhill from the septic tank outlet baffle (unless there is a pump). Household size. The lids on the tank are circular, 20"-24" in diameter and 5'-5 ' apart. Previously, Craft3 offered Clean Water Loans on a more-limited basis in partnership . Look for a medication take-back program in your area. It is likely that methane will also be found in your septic system. Open the lid to your toilet tank and pour enough food coloring into the tank water to color the water. outlet baffle, and 3) distribution box (if present) within 30 days of inspection. Forms and photographs may be emailed to EH@co.skagit.wa.us or sent to 1800 Continental Place, Mount Vernon, WA 98273. Read the meter once all faucets are off, and then wait a few hours and check the meter again. Let the equipment soak as needed. For example, a scale of 1 = 20 means that every inch on the paper is equal to 20 feet in your yard. Feminine hygiene products such as tampons or pads. Routine pumping can prevent expensive failures such as a clogged drainfield or sewage backing up into the home. Please arrive no later than 3:30 p.m. 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. Every drip, drop, sprinkle, or spray of water that goes down a shower, sink, toilet, or drain will end up being processed by your septic system. With just a few simple steps, you can protect your septicand avoid costly repairs. Proper decontamination of equipment is an important task that will minimize your risk of becoming ill. Chronic Disease, Communicable Diseases, &Immunizations. A person should never, for any reason, enter the confines of a septic system, especially tanks. Household chemicals like gasoline, oil, pesticides, antifreeze, and paint. Use water-saving devices such as faucet aerators and high-efficiency toilets, showerheads, dishwashers, and washing machines. Oftentimes, when tanks are installed, the dirt used to cover them has a different texture than the surrounding area. As-built: shows location of on-site sewage system Permit: documentation of permitted system Previous Inspections: links to onlineRME.com to show recent operation and maintenance inspections If documents are not available please contact Clark County Public Health at (360) 397-8428. Operation and maintenance of your home septic system begins with your actions inside the home. Water from roofs drains, driveways, patios, or sump pumps should be diverted away from the septic tank and drainfield area. Combined, these systems treat 154 million gallons of wastewater annually. After completing your inspection and necessary maintenance, you should shower or bathe, even if you dont feel like youve been exposed to sewage. 311 Grand Avenue | Bellingham, WA 98225 | Phone: 360-778-5000 [] . The septic tank will provide room for the solids to settle out and begin to decompose. Find a certified O&M provider. Caring for Your Septic System | Washington State Department of Health Caring for Your Septic System Inspect Your System If your system is only a septic tank and drainfield, commonly called a gravity system, you need to inspect it at least once every three years. Paper Application. It does not mean that you do not have a septic system or that it is failed or illegal. Regardless of the method you use to request this document, you will need to provide the following information: Physical address of the system or road name, Requestor phone number: (So we can call you if there is a question or need for more information.). Planning 400 . Materials that are flushed may get caught up on this congealed ooze and the blockage worsens. The best way to determine your system type is to review your septic permit. Prior to using any electrical device (screwdrivers, drills, flashlights, etc. In gravity plumbing, liquids will carry solid materials out of your dwelling towards downstream components. Interested homeowners can apply for a Clean Water Loan by visiting the Craft3 website. Proper care and maintenance of your septic system also occurs around the area where your system is installed. 3020 Rucker AvenueEverett, WA 98201Phone: 425-339-5200. It provides Washingtonians access to affordable financing for the repair and replacement of septic systems.