Website Design by Granicus - Connecting People and Government. Care must be taken to properly clean electronic tools such as drills or screw drivers. Keep vehicles, heavy equipment, and livestock off your septic tank, drainfield, and drainfield replacement area. They allow for development in outlying communities, help protect groundwater and waterways, and reduce exposure to untreated sewage. Health Information Privacy Information These gases can sink or rise, displacing oxygen that you need to breathe. Probe suspected tank locations first, rather than digging up the soil only to find nothing. . Don't avoid the signs of septic system failure. 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 pressure can compact the soil and damage pipes. In addition, some garbage disposals are capable of grinding or shredding material to a very fine size. Interested homeowners can apply for a Clean Water Loan by visiting the Craft3 website. Whitman. 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. Harsh chemicals including acids, bases, pesticides, herbicides, oils, paints, and varnishes should never be drained into any fixture that leads to your septic system. Patient information should not be disclosed to the answering service. These materials do not decompose or breakdown easily, if at all. As-builts are drawings that oftentimes are drawn to scale or otherwise help describe the location of your septic system. Common in rural areas without centralized sewer systems, septic systems are underground wastewater treatment structures that you own and operate. 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. *: Which best describes your role in visiting our site today? Protects Your Property Value An unusable septic system or one in disrepair will lower your property value and poses a potentially costly legal liability. If you successfully locate your septic tank and remove its lids, the next step is to locate your drainfield. A property owner with a pump system must have additional training to demonstrate competency with pump systems. It is imperative that you take all necessary precautions to minimize the risk of becoming sick or injured when conducting your inspection. Create a Website Account - Manage notification subscriptions, save form progress and more. The rule of thumb for planting is to use only shallow-rooted plants such as grasses. 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 . Missing information, photographs, etc. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Reduce the risk of people getting sick from untreated sewage. Combined, these systems treat 154 million gallons of wastewater annually. These cases may require the help of a licensed O&M Specialist. 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. See Ecology's. 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. Directory Septic Application Turnaround Times Septic Permitting In these cases, it may be increasingly difficult to maintain your septic system without a significant amount of effort. A septic system evaluation can be performed by a septic system professional. The effluent is distributed via pressure throughout the drainfield by utilizing small diameter pipes with small holes to distribute the liquid throughout the drainfield. Smaller problems can be fixed during the inspection. 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. 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 has been partially treated but still contains disease-causing bacteria and other pollutants. Email Environmental Public Health . 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. 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. 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. (Not compatible with Internet Explorer.) Phone: : 360-385-9444. Navigate to the Clark County PropertyInformation Center. Again, using the garden hose, rinse the soap from the equipment; this will ensure the soaps do not bind with the sanitizer. These gases can be odorless and may deprive you of oxygen. 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. 411 N 5th St Shelton WA 98584 (360) 427-9670 . 400 Belfair: 360-275-4467, Ext. Directions. Look for a medication take-back program in your area. Environmental Health records (including on-site sewage records) are available online. Landscape your system properly. 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. Many older systems may vary in their configuration and construction. 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. A "how to" guide is available on the online permitting portal when applying for a septic permit. Approximately a third of Washington homes use septic systems for wastewater treatment. 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. The first step in maintaining your septic system is obtaining your septic permit. Include the parcel number and street address and we will search our files for the drawings. Please enable JavaScript in your browser for a better user experience. 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. 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. Septic tank size. Most household wastes, such as harsh chemicals, paints, and oils can be disposed of at your Tanks installed after 1976 are two compartment tanks and both compartments will need to be pumped out. While trouble-shooting, water can be used to simulate normal water flow through the septic system. 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. Protecting your face, eyes, and mouth will minimize your risk of illness. A hose with a nozzle can be used to pre-clean risers, plumbing, and inspection ports. Island County code requires these inspections be completed by an Island County Licensed Maintenance Service Provider. Providers An inspection report from a homeowner will only be accepted if the report is for that property owners OSS system. Port Townsend, WA 98368. 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. Lids will likely be located near both ends of the tank. In these cases, the owner will find it easier to utilize the services of a licensed O&M Specialist. Search for previous service and inspection reports online. Environmental Health Services The system type will be noted in multiple places within the permit. Everything you put down your drain or into the toilet will end up in your septic system. Clean these tools in accordance with the manufacturers instructions. Keeping drains free from blockage ensures that surface water is being moved properly around your septic system. 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. A failing septic system is usually a costly and urgent situation for homeowners. Combined, these systems treat 154 million gallons of wastewater annually. Repair leaky faucets and plumbing fixtures. LISTINGS, System The septic tank will provide room for the solids to settle out and begin to decompose. Public health licenses these professionals, and maintains a list of System Maintenance Providers. 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. Check your OSS Application status Household bleach is a very effective sanitizer for killing bacteria and viruses. coming into our offices, or calling us at 509.460.4205. Washington County Septic Systems The Environmental Health section issues permit for private sewage disposal systems and inspect new construction of private sewage septic disposal systems. Assemble the following items when decontaminating your equipment and tools: Decontamination of equipment or tools should include a four-step process. 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. Thank you for your patience as we continue to update our new website. Some household products are advertised as septic safe. 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). Your septic system is not a trash can. Contact us at ehsepticsystems@tpchd.orgor (253) 649-1925. 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. Get email alerts based on your topic preferences like news releases, job openings, emergency updates and more! Face shields or goggles are recommended. If you hear a hollow thud and the rebar stops going deeper, you may have found a tank. In gravity plumbing, liquids will carry solid materials out of your dwelling towards downstream components. 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. How would you like to receive your "as-built": Before 1975, permits were not required by law. For these reasons, a person should do everything possible to minimize risk of exposure to gas. Previously, Craft3 offered Clean Water Loans on a more-limited basis in partnership . The grease laden paper towel can then be disposed of in your trash. Options for inspecting your system include: Pump out your septic tank when needed. OSS records If not, please do not enter anything in this field. Grease is a common household waste product that many people flush or rinse down the drain. Approved OSS site design applications submitted online since May 2019 are also available. Using gloves will minimize your exposure risk. Washington State Department of Health. Guidelines, Standards, Rules & Regulations Let the equipment soak as needed. Even latex paint waste should be minimized. The completed form must include photos of. Many flow restrictors have no mechanical parts while others reduce flow based upon pressure. Septic systems that have a curtain drain installed around them, often are dependent on a functioning curtain drain. 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. Covering the eyes, mouth, and any open cuts is particularly important. Methane gas is produced by decomposition of organic materials. . After completing your inspection and necessary maintenance, you should shower or bathe, even if you dont feel like youve been exposed to sewage. Feminine hygiene products such as tampons or pads. Your as-built or record drawing should describe the location of your drainfield. 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. To learn more, check out these 3D septic system models. 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. 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 be able to use a metal detector to help you locate the tanks as they are made of concrete with rebar, and the handles on the lids are usually made of metal wire. Many things you do in your yard or on your property can affect the systems function and performance. It should be noted that at the time of a property transfer, a licensed O&M Specialist must conduct the inspection. As-built drawings can be obtained at the Skagit County Online Septic Search. If you prefer, download and print a paper application (PDF), and mail to: Washington County Government Center Public Health . Prior to using any electrical device (screwdrivers, drills, flashlights, etc. Public Records Requests Most tanks are covered by 12 to 18" of soil. Evaluating, maintaining, or troubleshooting your septic system can expose you to the many pathogens or disease causing organisms found in human waste. French drains, curtain drains, or shallow diversion ditches can help move water out and around your septic system. Olympia, WA 98506-5132 Phone: 360-867-2500 Fax: 360-867-2601 Monday-Friday: 9:00 am-4:00 pm Phone Line Open Daily 8:00am-5:00pm. Splashing or spraying can and will occur. Proper maintenance is defined in the code as: Yakima. Old homes may not have a septic permit or the as-built may be unreliable. Open the lid to your toilet tank and pour enough food coloring into the tank water to color the water. The scale is typically depicted in inches to feet. Once you submit your quiz and contact information, we will have a record of you completing Septics 101. Whether you're at the kitchen sink, bathtub, or utility sink: Septic tank additives sold in stores aren't necessary to keep your septic tank working properly and they don't reduce or eliminate the need for routine pumping. & Development Services, Washington State Department of Healths OSS Program, Do-It-Yourself Septic System Inspection Video, Read the Department of Health Gravity Septic System inspection guide, Fill out the checkist form and return it to Public Health, Department of Health Gravity Septic System inspection guide, Pressure/Pump to Gravity On Site Sewage Summary Report, Check the Washington Department of Labor and Industries to find information about electricians, Skagit These inspections can identify small issues and fix them before they become big, costly repairs. If electrical problems are identified, a homeowner should contact a licensed Electrician. Lids are heavy and may be difficult to remove. 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. In the area near your drainfield, arrange products and tools where you can: Septic systems that contain a pump also include an electrical element. Use approximately 1 cups of bleach per gallon of water (www.osha.gov) Other products, including peroxide sanitizers are effective too. Don't select the large-load cycle if you're washing a small amount of laundry. Food waste from garbage disposals fill the septic tank and can clog the drainfield. If heavy rains cause water to sit around your septic system, avoid putting water down your drains. Water usage is likely the biggest contributor to a failed septic system. 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. 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. The pump tank will store the effluent until it is conveyed to a drainfield. Free viewers are required for some of the attached documents.They can be downloaded by clicking on the icons below. Local landscapers or nurseries can help you select plants that are appropriate for the areas around your septic system. In the past there were no standards for septic systems and permits were not required. SepticSmart EPA offers advice on proper septic care and brochures and factsheets for homeowners. There are a number of older homes where something was installed years ago that makes the wastewater go away but where it goes and how it functions is unknown. The Snohomish County Health Department works to ensure that septic systems are located and installed correctly, and kept in good working condition. Lids may be square, round or rectangular, and are typically large enough to allow for the tank to be pumped out. Related Links 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. The bigger the tank, the more capacity it has to handle solids and water, which could allow for more time between pumpings. 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.). Environmental Health 415 N. 6th Street Shelton, WA 98584. Approved OSS site design applications submitted online since May 2019 are also available. 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 Water from roofs drains, driveways, patios, or sump pumps should be diverted away from the septic tank and drainfield area. There are many different types of systems. This program supports healthy shellfish and fisheries, and helps ensure Washingtonians have access to swimming beaches and recreation.. Grease can also clog the pores in your soil, damaging your drainfield and may lead to system failure. Don't wait until you have a problem. Many of these products can clog your plumbing and septic system. Chronic Disease, Communicable Diseases, &Immunizations. It is likely that methane will also be found in your septic system. 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. Check the Washington Department of Labor and Industries to find information about electricians. The longevity of your on-site septic system relies heavily on the way that you care for it. The chemicals can alter the natural biological conditions found in your septic system. outlet baffle, and 3) distribution box (if present) within 30 days of inspection. 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. For example, "the property is on 30th Avenue between Spruce and Verbena.". How to take care of septic systems It is a 40 minute narrated presentation followed by a 20 question quiz on septic system basics. Contact information; Hours & location Routine pumping can prevent expensive failures such as a clogged drainfield or sewage backing up into the home.