FAQs • Jefferson County, WA • CivicEngage

Can I use a gray water only system if I have a composting toilet?: Yes, however you will still need an approved drain field for the gray water. The on-site sewage system for gray water must meet the same treatment standards for the soil conditions as a combination system (black and gray water).

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Septic Systems

1. Is someone available to answer my questions?: A staff person is available to answer questions Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

2. I am looking at a piece of property to buy. What kind of system will I need?: The type of system you need depends on the type of soil and how much of the soil there is to a water table or other restrictive barrier like ‘hard-pan’ or clay. You will need to meet with a designer to discuss your plans and then dig test holes in the area identified by the designer as meeting setbacks and other necessary features. The designer will evaluate the soils and determine what type of system you will need.

You can also look on the county website at nearby properties to see what type of septic system they have. Keep in mind that some older systems may not meet current code.

3. What is the ‘OSS Onsite Septic’ fee on my tax statement?: The Board of Health established this fee to fund the Septic Operation and Monitoring and Maintenance Program (O&M) in Jefferson County. The fee is applied for each septic system on a property. The O&M Program assures that septic systems are monitored and inspected in compliance with local and state code. Program activities include information and education for septic system owners; management of the website for eligible homeowners to become authorized to inspect their own septic system; follow-up when problems are identified during a professional or homeowner inspection; and information on low interest loans when septic system failure occurs. You can contact us at 360-385-9407 if you have further questions about the fee, or about your septic system.

4. 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.

6. Where do I get a permit?: Usually the person designing the septic system will complete the forms, get the property owner's signature and submit the proposal for review. The application for a permit can be picked up at the Jefferson County Environmental Public Health located at 617 Sheridan in Port Townsend, Washington or download the PDF: Septic Permit Application (PDF).

8. How long will it take to get a permit?: Please contact our office with current permit processing times.

9. How do I find an installer?: We certify installers for on-site 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. View the Certified Septic System Professionals page.

10. How long is a permit valid?: A new permit is valid for 3 years. A repair permit is valid for 3 months to 1 year.

11. Can I use a gray water only system if I have a composting toilet?: Yes, however you will still need an approved drain field for the gray water. The on-site sewage system for gray water must meet the same treatment standards for the soil conditions as a combination system (black and gray water).

12. 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 find it on the Department of Health's website.