In July 2005, the State Board of Health adopted revised on-site sewage system (OSS) rules. The intent of the rule and legislation is to provide greater assurance that existing OSS are not causing public health problems, either through inadequate operation and maintenance or outright failure. The revised rule set standards for septic system monitoring inspections based on system type.

The goal of this project is to engage a diverse group of involved stakeholders in a productive and inclusive process resulting in the development of a risk-based OSS monitoring program that has community support, satisfies the needs of stakeholders and the County, continues to be protective of public health and the environment, and meets the requirements established in Washington State Department of Health (DOH) regulations.

Work Group Meeting Schedule

Jefferson County Public Health convened a work group to review options to fulfill on-site sewage system monitoring requirements. The group reviewed the approaches used in other counties and gave input. The group considered a component to enable homeowners to conduct some of their own inspections as well as the educational and training needs required to make this option successful. Meetings were open to the public and a comment period was available at each meeting.