Onsite Sewage Systems - FAQs
A staff person is available to answer questions Monday, Tues, Thurs and Friday from 9am-1pm and Thursday 1:30pm-4:30pm
I am looking at a piece of property to buy. What kind of system will I need?
The type of system you need is determined through an evaluation of the site and soils. You will need to contact a licensed septic system designer or an engineer to complete this evaluation. This analysis will determine what type of system is suitable for the site.
How do I find a designer?
Designers are licensed through the State Department of Licensing. They are listed in the local phone book under Septic. Talk to your neighbors, friends, realtor, builder, etc. for referrals.
Why can’t you give me a list of designers?
Designers are licensed by the State. Any state licensed designer (or engineer) can perform design work anywhere in the state. Designers move around and we cannot reasonably keep track of who is available and willing to work in Jefferson County, nor can we endorse any particular designer.
How do I find out how much a septic system will cost?
After the designer determines what type of system is required, they can discuss the costs or you can contact a licensed installer to get a range of what a particular system might cost.
Where do I get a permit?
The application for a permit is found at Jefferson County Community Development at 621 Sheridan, Port Townsend WA. Usually the person designing the septic system will complete the forms, get the property owner's signature and submit the proposal for review.
How much does a permit cost?
Click here for the current fee schedule.
How long will it take to get a permit?
After the application is submitted to the County it takes between 2 and 4 weeks to make a decision. An applicant will always know within 30 days if additional information is required.
How long is a permit good for?
Three (3) years.
How do I find an installer?
We certify installers for onsite sewage systems and have a list of currently licensed individuals or you can look in the phone book under Septic Tanks and Systems-Contractors, Designers and Dealers. Ask if they are licensed in Jefferson County.
Can I use a gray water only system if I have a composting toilet?
Yes, however you will still need an approved drainfield for the gray water. The onsite sewage system for gray water must meet the same treatment standards for the soil conditions as a combination system (black and gray water).
What brands of composting toilets can I use?
The State Department of Health reviews and approves water saving toilets, both composting and incinerating. We can send you the list or you can get it from the web at doh.wa.gov. Go to Publications, List of Approved Systems and Products.
Caring for My Septic System
How often do I need my septic tank pumped?
Your tank should be checked to measure the solids accumulation in the tank every 3 years. Ask for a pamphlet to be mailed to you on how to inspect your tank and how to measure the solids.
Who should I call to pump my septic tank?
We certify septic tank pumpers for onsite sewage systems and have a list of currently licensed individuals or you can look in the phone book under Septic Tanks & Systems-Cleaning. Ask if they are licensed in Jefferson County.
How much does it cost to have my tank pumped?
Between $200 and $350; it depends on tank size because they pay for disposal based on gallons pumped.
What can I plant on my drainfield?
Generally you want to use plants with a shallow root system that can be mowed or maintained. Trees and shrubs should be planted at least 10’ away. WSU has some written information on landscaping over drainfields. If you have a specific plant you want to know about you can call WSU at 360-379-5610 and leave a message for a Master Gardener. They can tell you about the particular plant and if it would be appropriate.
Complaints/Report of Violations
If people are living on a property without an onsite sewage system, what can I do about that? You can contact us at 360-385-9444 and report the problem. We cannot take anonymous reports but we can keep your name confidential. Staff from our office will investigate to determine if a violation exists and will take appropriate follow-up actions.
I see sewage running into the ditch or onto the beach, what can I do about that?
You can contact us at 360-385-9444 and report the problem. We cannot take anonymous reports but we can keep your name confidential. Staff from our office will investigate to determine if a violation exists and will take appropriate follow-up actions.
Where else can I go for information?
Pamphlets are available in the office on different types of systems and basics of caring for your septic system. King County has a great website, metrokc.gov/health/wastewater. They have lots of information on different types of septic systems, landscaping and caring for your system.
Evaluations of Existing Onsite Sewage Systems -- EES
Why do I have to do an EES?
In 1995 the State Department of Health revised the onsite sewage code. In this revision a section was added requiring that all onsite sewage systems must be monitored periodically. Jefferson County revised our local code to address this requirement, resulting in enrollment into the monitoring program being required at various times in the life of a system. One of those times is at the time of sale.
How long is an EES good for?
It depends on how often the site is required to be monitored. The frequency is greater for small sites with more complex systems than large sites with simple conventional systems. The range is from annually to every 6 years.
Who pays for the EES?
This item is negotiable during the sale of a property. Either party can pay for it. The code says that an inspection must be completed at the time of sale. It does not specify who must pay for it.
Who makes the application?
The application can be made by either the owner, the buyer, or one of the representatives such as a realtor or contractor.
How long does it take?
An EES can be done by either a private certified O & M Specialist, a licensed designer or the Health Department. If the application is made through the Health Department it takes from 10 –21 days to complete the inspection. Staff will call shortly after the application is received to schedule a time to do the inspection. This will allow you time to get prepared for the inspection.
How do I prepare for the inspection?
The inspection ports on the top of the septic tank must be uncovered and loosened so that the solids in the tank can be measured. Our department has written instructions we can mail to you.
What happens if problems are found?
Many of the problems identified are items that, if not corrected, can lead to premature failure and it is the responsibility of the system owner to make the corrections. No immediate regulatory action is taken on these items. If the system is failing, backing up or discharging on the surface of the ground, it is a violation of code and repair is required promptly.
How does the County know if I do an EES or not?
If a Certified O & M Specialist does the inspection they are required to submit it to the County where it gets entered into the County database as completed.
Does the Title Company record the EES?
No, the County enters in the database system that one has been received. The document remains with the onsite sewage permit file and is accessible to any member of the public during office hours at the Health Department, 385-9444 or the Department of Community Development at 385-3794. | 
