Water coming from roof drains, driveways or other surfaces should be directed away from your septic system. They store, treat and dispose of the things you flush or send down drains. Forms and photographs may be emailed to EH@co.skagit.wa.us or sent to 1800 Continental Place, Mount Vernon, WA 98273. The pollutants harm local ecosystems by killing native plants, fish, and shellfish. Manager of Healthy People & Communities. While they may not have a negative effect on your system, they do fill your septic system with wastes that require removal through pumping. Privacy Policy Keep accurate records of your septic system. A failing septic system is usually a costly and urgent situation for homeowners. Tacoma, WA 98418-6813 (253) 649-1500 (800) 330-1844 TDD (253) 649-1400. If not, please do not enter anything in this field. Protect your system from damage. Regardless of the method you use to request this document, you will need to provide the following information: *If your address was once a "route #, box #" please include the roads/streets that the property is located on and by. The scale should be described on your as-built. Don't select the large-load cycle if you're washing a small amount of laundry. Probe suspected tank locations first, rather than digging up the soil only to find nothing. A septic system evaluation can be performed by a septic system professional. 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. 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. Chelan-Douglas Health District200 Valley Mall ParkwayEast Wenatchee, WA 98802, Hours9AM - 5PM | Monday - Thursday9AM - 12PM | Friday, After HoursTo report an urgent public health concern call:(509) 886-6499. You may find junction boxes, wires, or other electrical connections in the pump chamber. Applications, permits and fees, Buying and selling properties If your system was installed before 1975, no records may be available. This is a cheap and easy way of assessing your toilet for leaks, which may otherwise be difficult to detect visually. Evaluating, maintaining, or troubleshooting your septic system can expose you to the many pathogens or disease causing organisms found in human waste. Many flow restrictors have no mechanical parts while others reduce flow based upon pressure. Don't put concrete or plastic over your septic system. If you prefer, download and print a paper application (PDF), and mail to: Washington County Government Center Public Health . For information on failing septic systems, please see our Septic Failure Brochure. Records of its size and location may be available at your local health department. The next step required to maintain your system is to dig up and remove your septic tank lids. Stay . For homeowners who conduct their own inspections, it is a good idea to hire a professional to conduct a septic system inspection at the time of system pumping. Please enable JavaScript in your browser for a better user experience. It is a 40 minute narrated presentation followed by a 20 question quiz on septic system basics. Common in rural areas without centralized sewer systems, septic systems are underground wastewater treatment structures that you own and operate. Household chemicals like gasoline, oil, pesticides, antifreeze, and paint. Avoid chemical drain openers for a clogged drain. Planning Thank you for your patience as we continue to update our new website. Previously, Craft3 offered Clean Water Loans on a more-limited basis in partnership . Local Health Department Your local health agency can help you locate your septic system, provide a list of certified septic pumpers, and if available, certify you to do your own septic system inspections. 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. The descriptions below may also help you determine your system type. 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. Be aware that your meter readings may represent all of the water used, including irrigation. Electrical connections should need very little maintenance if your pump controls and alarms are functioning as designed. will be sent back to the homeowner for revision. All other types of systems are required to be inspected at least once every year. Online portal submissions Food Safety, Land Development, Environmental Hazards, Water Recreation & Public Schools . Search for records on any property. Covering the eyes, mouth, and any open cuts is particularly important. If your system was installed before 1975 and no records are available, here are some tips to help you locate your system: Communicable Disease Prevention & Control, HIV Case Management and Prevention Services, Children & Youth with Special Healthcare Needs, School Inspection Guidelines and Resources, Community Health Needs Assessment & Improvement Plan, Sr. As-builts are drawings that oftentimes are drawn to scale or otherwise help describe the location of your septic system. Reducing water use will limit the demand you place on your septic system. Public Health continues to work with Vashon-Maury Island residents to document improvements to water quality, find sources of excessive bacteria, and, where possible, eliminate these sources. It should be noted that at the time of a property transfer, a licensed O&M Specialist must conduct the inspection. A system where there is no record drawing, no access, or if location is difficult to determine, may require a homeowner to hire a licensed O&M Specialist to assist them. While trouble-shooting, water can be used to simulate normal water flow through the septic system. The wastewater leaving the septic tank is a liquid called effluent. A person should never, for any reason, enter the confines of a septic system, especially tanks. . I can't find my record drawingrequest Health Department search for a record you can't locate. Well reports also contain information about location, owner name, driller name, and the quantity of water a well produces. In the area near your drainfield, arrange products and tools where you can: Septic systems that contain a pump also include an electrical element. Please arrive no later than 3:30 p.m. What is a septic system? It provides Washingtonians access to affordable financing for the repair and replacement of septic systems. Check your OSS Application status Routine pumping can prevent expensive failures such as a clogged drainfield or sewage backing up into the home. Report. The average size of a 1000 gallon tank is 5'x8'. Mason County, WA. With just a few simple steps, you can protect your septicand avoid costly repairs. If you have a water meter on your property, you can easily figure out how much water you and your family are using. Please allow up to five business days for a response. Eliminate or limit the use of a garbage disposal. By reducing and balancing your use, you can extend the life of your drainfield, decrease the possibility of system failure, and avoid costly repairs. Shellfish that grow in marine waters are harvested from our beaches and can become contaminated by failing septic systems. A long piece of rebar can be pounded into the ground to look for a tank. 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. Treatment component (if applicable) Distribution system. Again, using the garden hose, rinse the soap from the equipment; this will ensure the soaps do not bind with the sanitizer. The probe can be used to identify the size and orientation of the tank (rectangle vs. round, 4 X 8 foot, etc). An inspection report from a homeowner will only be accepted if the report is for that property owners OSS system. Be sure to: Complete additional routine maintenance that is required for some system types. As of Sept. 1, the Regional On-Site Sewage System Loan Program has expanded state-wide, adding 17 counties to this successful program. 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. 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. Gloves are the first line of defense for the average do-it-yourselfer. Grass is the best cover. Open the lid to your toilet tank and pour enough food coloring into the tank water to color the water. Mailing Address 615 Sheridan Street Port Townsend, WA . 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. 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. Hygienic practices mentioned here will help you protect yourself. OSS evaluations must be performed and filed with the public health at least once every three years for all systems consisting solely of a septic tank and gravity drainfield, and annually for all other system types. Rakes, shovels, and poles can be used to reach components that are well below ground or out of reach. Four major factors influence how often you need to pump your septic: Practice water conservation. The longevity of your on-site septic system relies heavily on the way that you care for it. 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. 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 Your as-built or record drawing should describe the location of your drainfield. Free viewers are required for some of the attached documents.They can be downloaded by clicking on the icons below. Look for a medication take-back program in your area. Get the latest on local COVID-19 trends, news and helpful resources from Chelan-Douglas Health District, weekly in your inbox. Combined, these systems treat 154 million gallons of wastewater annually. There are a number of things you can do to check for leaks. Household bleach is a very effective sanitizer for killing bacteria and viruses. Baby wipes, cleaning wipes, or any moist towelettes. 3020 Rucker Avenue Suite 104 Everett, WA 98201 Phone: : 425-339-5250 Fax: : 425-339-5254 Hours Regular hours: Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. Don't avoid the signs of septic system failure. A garbage disposal adds more solid material to your septic system. They include both new construction and repairs to failing systems. To find out what type of system you have, take a look at your propertys as built records. Green grass or depressions in your yard may be indications of where your tank is located. Washington Administrative Code chapter 246-272A and Clark County Code 24.17 requires homeowners whose property is not connected to a municipal sewer system to ensure that the property includes an approved, correctly functioning on-site septic system. Health Programs, Healthy Communities, WIC, Nurse/Family Partnership. . 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. These inspections can identify small issues and fix them before they become big, costly repairs. The best way to determine your system type is to review your septic permit. 400 Belfair: 360-275-4467, Ext. Board of Health Meetings; Fee Schedule; . If your system was installed before 1975, no records may be available. To assist in this process, please have your address and/or your parcel ID number available. One way that you can identify a very slow leak is by shutting all faucets off and keeping them off for a period of time. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Tools can be used to further minimize your exposure to the sewage contained in your septic system. After completing your inspection and necessary maintenance, you should shower or bathe, even if you dont feel like youve been exposed to sewage. We recommend searching by the 12-digit tax parcel number. Proper care and maintenance of your septic system also occurs around the area where your system is installed. A property owner with a pump system must have additional training to demonstrate competency with pump systems. 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. 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. Many older systems may vary in their configuration and construction. There is one for gravity systems and a different form for pump/pressure systems: Your form must be completed in its entirety. If documents are not available please contact Clark County Public Health at (360) 397-8428. Prescription medication. Common in rural areas without centralized sewer systems, septic systems are underground wastewater treatment structures that you own and operate. This process may require the use of a stiff bristled brush to remove all contaminants. Harsh chemicals including acids, bases, pesticides, herbicides, oils, paints, and varnishes should never be drained into any fixture that leads to your septic system. 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. Patient information should not be disclosed to the answering service. outlet baffle, and 3) distribution box (if present) within 30 days of inspection. 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 Washington state well report (log) viewer, our most popular online resource, allows you to search for and view detailed records of the construction and subsurface characteristics of individual wells. Pressure distribution systems are similar to conventional gravity systems, except that only the effluent should flow out of your septic tank and into your pump tank. Maintenance It does not mean that you do not have a septic system or that it is failed or illegal. Feminine hygiene products such as tampons or pads. Privacy Policy| Alternate Format Requests | Notice of Nondiscrimination, File Complaint About Provider or Facility, Healthcare Enforcement and Licensing Modernization Solution, Healthcare Professional Credentialing Requirements, Veterans, Service Members and their Families, Emergency Information for Specific Groups, For Public Health & Health Care Providers, Public Health System Resources and Services, Asking your local health department if they can inspect your system at a lower cost, Do-It-Yourself Septic System Inspection Video, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Local Health Jurisdictions and Tribal Directories, Northwest Center for Public Health Practice. Fax: : 360-379-4487. Septic systems lacking records are considered "suspected" o r "assumed" and are colored RED on the . Approved OSS site design applications submitted online since May 2019 are also 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. 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. Washington Permits and Inspections Directory Advertising Search WA Public Records WA Marriage Records WA Divorce Records WA Criminal Records WA Death Records WA Birth Records WA Background Search Search Records By Name Find Permits and Inspections Resources in Washington Return to Top Return to Top Return to Top Return to Top Return to Top 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. . Environmental Health Contact numbers: Shelton: 360-427-9670, Ext. The On-site System Maintainer (OSM) will inspect your system components: Septic and pump tanks. Financial assistance Tacoma, WA 98418-6813 (253) 649-1500 (800) 330-1844 TDD (253) 649-1400. Never mix sanitizers! Prior to using any electrical device (screwdrivers, drills, flashlights, etc. Then, they will submit a report to Public Health about the status of your system. Birth & Death Certificates, Food Worker Cards, Public Records Request, Report a Complaint & Fees. Department of Ecology News Release - Sept. 21, 2021. Vince McGowan, water quality program manager for Ecology. As-built drawings can be obtained at the Skagit County Online Septic Search. Local landscapers or nurseries can help you select plants that are appropriate for the areas around your septic system. Wood Stove Rule - Is My Wood Stove Okay to Use? Mailing Address 615 Sheridan Street Port Townsend, WA 98368. 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. Program Activities Certification program for all septic system installers, pumpers and operations and monitoring specialists Complaint investigation relating to septic systems Education for homeowners and other professionals interested in septic systems Enforcement of state and local codes Were you able to find what you were looking for today? These small bits of ground-up material are often difficult to settle out and these unsettled particles can pass through your septic tank, eventually damaging pumps or clogging the soil beneath your drainfield. Are You Prepared, Severe Weather, Wildfires, Vulnerable Populations & Limited English Proficiency. In these cases, the owner will find it easier to utilize the services of a licensed O&M Specialist. . That way, they can perform any required maintenance while on site. 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. Ideally these connections, when found in the pump tank, will be located in a junction box that keeps wire connections protected from breakage, while keeping the wires organized. Your septic permit will include an as-built or record drawing; this is a drawing that shows where your septic system is located and what parts or components make up your septic system. Methane gas is produced by decomposition of organic materials. The phone number is 360-385-9444. 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. Septic System Records Search; Septic System Maintenance Records Search; Contact. 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. Customer service counter opens at 9:30 a.m. the first and third Thursdays of every month. A properly functioning septic system helps remove these pollutants so well water and nearby surface water doesn't get contaminated. Discharging effluent onto the ground's surface or into surface and ground water is against Washington State law. Once you submit your quiz and contact information, we will have a record of you completing Septics 101. Our reply (from PAEGAT25) may go to your email's Spam folder. The system type will be noted in multiple places within the permit. 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). 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. Any exceptions to the above conditions must have written approval of Skagit County Environmental Public Health staff. Environmental Health records (including on-site sewage records) are available online. Departments / Elected . Let it cool, harden, and then throw it away in the trash. Work with septic system professionals to approve system design,location and installation. At a minimum, wash your hands using soap and hot water. View your operations and maintenance report on onlineRMEOn Site Septic formsReport a public health concern, 2023 Clark County Washington They allow for development in outlying communities, help protect groundwater and waterways, and reduce exposure to untreated sewage. It is likely that methane will also be found in your septic system. Directions. Operation and maintenance of your home septic system begins with your actions inside the home. It is also wise to keep a record of maintenance on the system. 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. Tank lids come in different shapes and sizes. Wash: Next, immerse the equipment into the 5-gallon bucket containing a soap and water mixture. Fully immerse the tools and equipment in the solution as much as you can, let stand for 3 minutes or longer. Proper decontamination of equipment is an important task that will minimize your risk of becoming ill. Read the meter once all faucets are off, and then wait a few hours and check the meter again. A hose with a nozzle can be used to pre-clean risers, plumbing, and inspection ports. In the plumbing, liquids will carry solid materials out of your dwelling towards downstream components. Please note- many other septic systems exist, we are only discussing those allowed to be inspected by homeowners through this course. Some tanks have smaller lids on each end of the tank to allow for inspection of inlet and outlet baffles. Due to differences in elevations, on some occasions, a pump is needed to get the sewage to the drainfield. 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. Options for inspecting your system include: Pump out your septic tank when needed. Craft3's Clean Water Loans - Craft3 offers financing for replacement of septic systems in many areas of Washington. In addition, some garbage disposals are capable of grinding or shredding material to a very fine size. Poor landscaping can cause septic system problems, including premature failure of your septic system. 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). Septic systems that have a curtain drain installed around them, often are dependent on a functioning curtain drain. Combined, these systems treat 154 million gallons of wastewater annually. 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. Once these products congeal, they can cause blockages in your system. Proper hygienic practices minimize the risk of exposure to disease causing agents that are found in sewage. To search for septic or drinking water records, you'll need to enter your property ID number or GeoID or parcel number. SepticSmart EPA offers advice on proper septic care and brochures and factsheets for homeowners. Pouring toxins down your drain can kill these organisms and harm your septic system. Missing information, photographs, etc. Maintaining your septic system will save you money as well as help maintain or improve surface and groundwater quality in Skagit County. Search for Records. 400 . Directing surface water away from your tanks and drainfield will help your drainfield function as well as possible. Generally, the more people in the home, the more often you need to pump. You must be able to observe the inlet and outlet of your septic tank. Learn more about water conservation and water recycling. Save you money and extend the life of your system. County Code, The septic system is a conventional gravity septic system, The OSS is a conventional gravity, a pump to gravity, or conventional pressure system, The property is not immediately adjacent to a marine shoreline, The inspection is not for the purpose of a real estate transfer or sale, The homeowner has completed Skagit County Septics 101, The homeowner has completed a Septics 201 Field Training Class, The homeowner can supply an as-built of their septic system, The homeowner must agree to allow a possible follow-up quality assurance visit by public health staff at a mutually agreeable time. Environmental Health Services Public Records; Smoke-Free Housing Information; View. Even latex paint waste should be minimized. Educate property owners to make sure their septic system gets proper maintenance. Some are simple, using only a tank and a drainfield. Please note this is the number of our answering service, and you will receive a call back from Public Health. Learn the basics of septic system design, maintenance, and dos and donts to keep your septic system working well as long as possible. coming into our offices, or calling us at 509.460.4205. Using a garbage disposal will increase the amount of solids entering the septic tank, requiring more frequent pumping. The Snohomish County Health Department works to ensure that septic systems are located and installed correctly, and kept in good working condition. Flow restrictors on showers and other high volume water fixtures can dramatically reduce your consumption of water. Landscape your system properly. Care must be taken to properly clean electronic tools such as drills or screw drivers. Sanitize: After thoroughly rinsing the tools, immerse the equipment in a sanitizer solution. Do-It-Yourself Septic System Inspection Video. - Manage notification subscriptions, save form progress and more. Some gases found in properly functioning septic systems have different densities. Contact information; Hours & location Drainfield and the reserve areas. Routine inspections save time and money in the long run. After reviewing this information and the training videos listed below, homeowners may evaluate their own on-site sewage system (OSS). 14350 SE Eastgate Way Flies, rats, and other vectors can encounter sewage from a failing septic system and subsequently pass the diseases found in sewage to humans or infect other animals at locations far from the failing system. . Real estate professionals need to inform both the buyer and seller of this requirement.
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