These gases can sink or rise, displacing oxygen that you need to breathe. Rinse: Start by rinsing the equipment and tools with water from your garden hose. They allow for development in outlying communities, help protect groundwater and waterways, and reduce exposure to untreated sewage. Think of them like a sewage treatment plant, only much smaller. Patient information should not be disclosed to the answering service. Electrical connections are typically buried and run underground from the dwelling to the pump tank. Be aware that your meter readings may represent all of the water used, including irrigation. Clean these tools in accordance with the manufacturers instructions. The system type will be noted in multiple places within the permit. Search for records on any property. It is also wise to keep a record of maintenance on the system. Drainfield and the reserve areas. Tanks installed after 1976 are two compartment tanks and both compartments will need to be pumped out. A. While leaning over the system, be sure to recognize that gases may have accumulated around where you are breathing. It is not uncommon for a new septic system to cost $20,000 or more, making it a substantial investment that many homeowners cannot afford on their own, especially when the problems are unexpected. Then, they will submit a report to Public Health about the status of your system. Accessibility, View your Septic System Information Online, Community Health Assessment and Improvement Plan, Children and youth w/special health care needs, Nurse-Family Partnership - helping first-time parents succeed, View your Drinking Water Information Online, Food worker testing & manager certification, FAQ's for farmers markets, bazaars & temporary events, Positive and Adverse Childhood Experiences, Environmental health resources for schools, School Health and Safety Technical Advisory Group, View your operations and maintenance report on onlineRME, See if your septic system is documented appropriately, View inspection reports from November 2007 - Present, Get quick access to the same records our staff use: like as-built drawings or permits, 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. Free viewers are required for some of the attached documents.They can be downloaded by clicking on the icons below. 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. 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. Greases can congeal anywhere in your plumbing or septic system. After reviewing this information and the training videos listed below, homeowners may evaluate their own on-site sewage system (OSS). The Atrium (Environmental Health) 3000 Pacific Ave Olympia, WA 98501 Phone: 360-867-2685 Mailing Address . 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. For example, "the property is on 30th Avenue between Spruce and Verbena.". Prescription medication. For a typical household, septic tanks are usually pumped every three to five years. 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. Shellfish that grow in marine waters are harvested from our beaches and can become contaminated by failing septic systems. Please note this is the number of our answering service, and you will receive a call back from Public Health. Board of Health Meetings; Fee Schedule; . Splashing or spraying can and will occur. No other OSS may be inspected by the homeowner. Manager of Healthy People & Communities. During the 2020-2022 Project, we are sampling water quality, performing visual surveys, and providing free technical assistance and rebates. 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 Use approximately 1 cups of bleach per gallon of water (www.osha.gov) Other products, including peroxide sanitizers are effective too. Craft3's Clean Water Loans - Craft3 offers financing for replacement of septic systems in many areas of Washington. Wood Stove Rule - Is My Wood Stove Okay to Use? A septic system is a huge property investment, so maintaining the one youve got is cheaper than replacing the entire system. This requirement went into effect September 1, 2010. 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 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. There are many different types of systems. Remove gross contamination from your equipment. The grease laden paper towel can then be disposed of in your trash. Financial assistance See Ecology's. Septic Applications in 3 Easy Steps. 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. 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. Faucets and toilets should be free of any leakage. Approved OSS site design applications submitted online since May 2019 are also available. 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. Oftentimes, when tanks are installed, the dirt used to cover them has a different texture than the surrounding area. A hose with a nozzle can be used to pre-clean risers, plumbing, and inspection ports. Learn more about water conservation and water recycling. 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. 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. Share & Bookmark, Press Enter to show all options, press Tab go to next option, Informacion sobre la vacuna contra la COVID-19, COVID-19 Information for Food Establishments, Selling Your Property - Report of System Status. Previously, Craft3 offered Clean Water Loans on a more-limited basis in partnership . If you successfully locate your septic tank and remove its lids, the next step is to locate your drainfield. To learn more, check out our 3D septic system models. Even latex paint waste should be minimized. You can check for leaks in your toilet too. If youd like a reply, please provide an email address. The final treatment occurs in the soil of your drainfield. The pollutants harm local ecosystems by killing native plants, fish, and shellfish. Customer service counter opens at 9:30 a.m. the first and third Thursdays of every month. 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. 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. If you hear a hollow thud and the rebar stops going deeper, you may have found a tank. Routine inspections save time and money in the long run. 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,. Whitman. 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. If your washing machine has load settings, make sure you select the proper load size. Maintaining your septic system will save you money as well as help maintain or improve surface and groundwater quality in Skagit County. Work with septic system professionals to approve system design,location and installation. Operation and maintenance of your home septic system begins with your actions inside the home. Keep vehicles, heavy equipment, and livestock off your septic tank, drainfield, and drainfield replacement area. Create a Website Account - Manage notification subscriptions, save form progress and more. Learn how to obtain sewage permit information. The scale should be described on your as-built. Search for Records. Applications, permits and fees, Buying and selling properties Using gloves will minimize your exposure risk. 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. Navigate to the Clark County PropertyInformation Center. Care must be taken to properly clean electronic tools such as drills or screw drivers. All other types of systems are required to be inspected at least once every year. Local landscapers or nurseries can help you select plants that are appropriate for the areas around your septic system. Get email alerts based on your topic preferences like news releases, job openings, emergency updates and more! The Snohomish County Health Department works to ensure that septic systems are located and installed correctly, and kept in good working condition. Using a garbage disposal will increase the amount of solids entering the septic tank, requiring more frequent pumping. Grass is the best cover. Septic Resources The Purpose Of On-Site Septic System (OSS) Program Is To Ensure Proper Treatment And Disposal Of Wastewater To Protect Our Drinking Water And The Environment. 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. 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. . The effluent is distributed via pressure throughout the drainfield by utilizing small diameter pipes with small holes to distribute the liquid throughout the drainfield. Thank you for your patience as we continue to update our new website. The first step in maintaining your septic system is obtaining your septic permit. Most household wastes, such as harsh chemicals, paints, and oils can be disposed of at your 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. They can be purchased at your local hardware store and are fairly easy to install in a typical faucet. Lids will likely be located near both ends of the tank. Use a brush to clean the hard to reach portions of the tools. I can't find my record drawingrequest Health Department search for a record you can't locate. Many flow restrictors have no mechanical parts while others reduce flow based upon pressure. Site Sewage coming into our offices, or calling us at 509.460.4205. 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. Rakes can be used to lift floats and screens. Departments / Elected . 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. Protecting your face, eyes, and mouth will minimize your risk of illness. As-Built Records Northeast Tri County Health District maintains records of permits for completed on-site sewage systems. Probe suspected tank locations first, rather than digging up the soil only to find nothing. The drainfield is the final and the most downstream component in your septic system. 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. Again, using the garden hose, rinse the soap from the equipment; this will ensure the soaps do not bind with the sanitizer. NOTE:Before 1975, permits were not required by law. 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. 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. 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. Septic System Records Search; Septic System Maintenance Records Search; Contact. Check your OSS Application status 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 groundwater and Puget Sound lakes, rivers, and beaches benefit, too! Sanitize: After thoroughly rinsing the tools, immerse the equipment in a sanitizer solution. Avoid chemical drain openers for a clogged drain. Let it cool, harden, and then throw it away in the trash. Besides human poop and pee, toilet paper, and soap used for washing, not much else should be going down your drain. If heavy rains cause water to sit around your septic system, avoid putting water down your drains. If documents are not available please contact Clark County Public Health at (360) 397-8428. 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. These cases may require the help of a licensed O&M Specialist. Soil over your system should be slightly mounded to help surface water runoff. Any exceptions to the above conditions must have written approval of Skagit County Environmental Public Health staff. Public Records Requests 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. 14350 SE Eastgate Way We recommend searching by the 12-digit tax parcel number. Mason County, WA. Prior to using any electrical device (screwdrivers, drills, flashlights, etc. Wash only full loads of dishes and laundry. Instead, use boiling water or a drain snake. Septic systems treat wastewater when homes and buildings are not connected to public sewer systems. 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. Brush for cleaning grime and grit from tools with hard to reach places, 5 Gallon bucket containing water with a good splash of bleach, Plastic cup for rinsing large tools with the sanitizer. The bigger the tank, the more capacity it has to handle solids and water, which could allow for more time between pumpings. Open the lid to your toilet tank and pour enough food coloring into the tank water to color the water. Maintenance 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. Environmental Health records (including on-site sewage records) are available online. Don't put concrete or plastic over your septic system. . French drains, curtain drains, or shallow diversion ditches can help move water out and around your septic system. 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. Building remodel permits 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. . Approved OSS site design applications submitted online since May 2019 are also available. Get email alerts based on your topic preferences like news releases, job openings, emergency updates and more! They store, treat and dispose of the things you flush or send down drains. 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. The online septic case records include, if available, the permit application, the approved permit and conditions, the asbuilt or record drawing and construction report, the approved design, the soil report, and letters from JCPH since septic system installation. They protect your eyes and mouth from the liquids in your septic system. The next step required to maintain your system is to dig up and remove your septic tank lids. . This program supports healthy shellfish and fisheries, and helps ensure Washingtonians have access to swimming beaches and recreation.. Statewide access to this program is a win for homeowners, public health, and clean water. 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. OSS records A typical conventional gravity system will not have any mechanical devices to convey water or material; gravity will do all of the required work. Protects the Environment Malfunctioning septic systems release bacteria, viruses, and chemicals that eventually enter streams, rivers, lakes, Puget Sound, and the ocean. Search for previous service and inspection reports online. Lids may be square, round or rectangular, and are typically large enough to allow for the tank to be pumped out. It is a 40 minute narrated presentation followed by a 20 question quiz on septic system basics. Port Townsend, WA 98368. Are you a robot? A property owner with a pump system must have additional training to demonstrate competency with pump systems. Links. 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 Shovels can be used to evaluate the depth of the scum and sludge found in your septic tank. In addition, the dirt used to cover the tank will settle over time, creating a shallow depression. Properly built and maintained septic systems have many benefits. Remove the equipment and tools from the soap and water mixture. 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. A septic contractor installs a new drain field for a homeowner. SepticSmart EPA offers advice on proper septic care and brochures and factsheets for homeowners. It It has been partially treated but still contains disease-causing bacteria and other pollutants. State law (Chapter 246-272A-0270) requires that homeowners inspect and maintain their septic systems to ensure it is functioning properly. Tacoma, WA 98418-6813 (253) 649-1500 (800) 330-1844 TDD (253) 649-1400. Rakes, shovels, and poles can be used to reach components that are well below ground or out of reach. It is also recommended the first inspection of any OSS be done professionally. Proper decontamination of equipment is an important task that will minimize your risk of becoming ill. 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. Septic systems use a combination of nature and time-tested technology to treat wastewater from household plumbing produced by bathrooms, kitchen drains, and laundry. Electrical connections should need very little maintenance if your pump controls and alarms are functioning as designed. 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. - Manage notification subscriptions, save form progress and more. Grease is a common household waste product that many people flush or rinse down the drain. 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). Reduce the risk of contaminating groundwater and surface water. If the as-built is accurate, this will allow you to find plumbing stubs, tank lids, distribution boxes, drainfield lines and observation ports. Volume of solids in wastewater. The Drainfield The drainfield receives septic tank effluent. That way, they can perform any required maintenance while on site. A "how to" guide is available on the online permitting portal when applying for a septic permit. Fortunately, help is now available in every Washington county. 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. Never pour oil-based paints, solvents, or large volumes of toxic cleaners down the drain. Please enable JavaScript in your browser for a better user experience. On *: Which best describes your role in visiting our site today? 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. Look for a medication take-back program in your area. If shellfish filter polluted water, they can become unsafe for humans to eat. Combined, these systems treat 154 million gallons of wastewater annually. There are many different types of systems. 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. Common in rural areas without centralized sewer systems, septic systems are underground wastewater treatment structures that you own and operate. Tools can be used to further minimize your exposure to the sewage contained in your septic system. Total wastewater generated. Materials that are flushed may get caught up on this congealed ooze and the blockage worsens. Hygienic practices mentioned here will help you protect yourself. Tank lids come in different shapes and sizes. Old homes may not have a septic permit or the as-built may be unreliable. 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. Feminine hygiene products such as tampons or pads. 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. Customer service counter opens at 9:30 a.m. the first and third Thursdays of every month. Interested homeowners can apply for a Clean Water Loan by visiting the Craft3 website. Report. This will be located downhill from the septic tank outlet baffle (unless there is a pump). Save you money and extend the life of your system. Your septic system contains a collection of living organisms that digest and treat household waste. Some plumbing (like toilets) can leak so slowly that it is difficult to hear or see signs of a leak. Water coming from roof drains, driveways or other surfaces should be directed away from your septic system. Email Environmental Public Health . If the meter has moved, yet you have used no water during that time, you may have a very slow leak. The pump tank will store the effluent until it is conveyed to a drainfield. If you do not know where your system is located, you may be able to obtain this information from our offices. 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 . Most people perceive a slow dripping faucet as nothing more than a nuisance; however, a septic system will be burdened by additional water going down the drain. Sewage related records are typically marked with an "SWG". As of Sept. 1, the Regional On-Site Sewage System Loan Program has expanded state-wide, adding 17 counties to this successful program. A Conventional Gravity system will likely have all of the following major components, each of which should be thoroughly inspected: plumbing; septic tank(s); and a drainfield. Options for inspecting your system include: Pump out your septic tank when needed. 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. SEPTIC SYSTEM A person should never, for any reason, enter the confines of a septic system, especially tanks. Health Programs, Healthy Communities, WIC, Nurse/Family Partnership. In addition, some garbage disposals are capable of grinding or shredding material to a very fine size. Your septic system is not capable of handling many wastes that you may generate in your home. If you prefer, download and print a paper application (PDF), and mail to: Washington County Government Center Public Health . 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. see the Washington State Department of . Food waste from garbage disposals fill the septic tank and can clog the drainfield. Forms and photographs may be emailed to EH@co.skagit.wa.us or sent to 1800 Continental Place, Mount Vernon, WA 98273. Healthy septic systems are good for your family, your wallet and the environment. INFORMATIONAL A failing septic system is usually a costly and urgent situation for homeowners. Think of inspections like oil changes and routine maintenance for your car, you do a little here and there to keep it running for as long as possible. Environmental Health Services To assist in this process, please have your address and/or your parcel ID number available. Chronic Disease, Communicable Diseases, &Immunizations. It should be noted that at the time of a property transfer, a licensed O&M Specialist must conduct the inspection. [Ver este comunicado de prensa en Espaol]. Website Design by Granicus - Connecting People and Government. Repair leaky faucets and plumbing fixtures. Common in rural areas without centralized sewer systems, septic systems are underground wastewater treatment structures that you own and operate. outlet baffle, and 3) distribution box (if present) within 30 days of inspection. Properly operating and maintaining your system is required by State and local regulations to ensure that our wastewater is not creating a source of pollution to local waterways or causing disease from contact with contaminated water.