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For homes and businesses outside the reach of large sewer systems, septic systems play a crucial role in treating and dispersing wastewater safely into the soil. A septic system consists of:

✔ Septic Tank – Collects and treats wastewater.
✔ Drainfield – Captures, disperses, and filters treated waste.

Proper installation and maintenance of septic systems are essential for protecting human health and the environment.

Do You Need a Permit for a Septic System?

Yes! A permit is required to ensure your septic system is properly designed, installed, and maintained. Permit requirements vary by county, so it’s important to contact the right local authority.

🔹 In some Oregon counties, the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) handles septic system permits, inspections, and site evaluations.
🔹 In other counties, local governments provide these services.

What Type of Permit Do You Need?

Most residential and small commercial septic systems (handling less than 2,500 gallons per day) require a construction-installation permit, valid for one year.

🔹 Need more time? The permit can be renewed or reinstated for an additional fee.
🔹 For larger or complex systems, contact your local onsite agent.

How to Get a Septic System Permit

There are two main steps to obtaining a septic permit:

Step 1: Site Evaluation

A site evaluation determines the best septic system for your property based on:
✔ Soil and site conditions
✔ Depth and seasonality of the water table
✔ Property size and available space for a future replacement system
✔ Proximity to wells, surface water, and sewer connections

🔹 How to Start the Site Evaluation Process:

1. Submit a Site Evaluation Application – Include required documents, property directions, and fees.
2. Prepare Test Pits – Dig at least two test pits (about 75 feet apart in the drainfield area). More may be required for large or challenging sites.
3. Site Visit & Evaluation – A local onsite agent will inspect the property. Multiple visits may be necessary.
4. Receive Your Site Evaluation Report – This report details the approved system type, size, and any special requirements.

📌 If your site is rejected: You have 90 days to submit additional test pits for evaluation without extra fees.

Step 2: Permit Application, Construction & Inspection

Once you have an approved site evaluation report, you can apply for a septic system construction permit.

How to Apply for a Permit:

✔ Get a Permit Application Packet – Available from your local onsite agent.
✔ Check Land Use Compatibility – Ensure your property has land use approval for septic installation. Contact your county planning office if unsure.
✔ Submit the Application – Include:

• Completed application
• Fees
• Construction plans
• Approved land use compatibility statement

🔹 Permit Approval Timeline: A construction-installation permit is typically issued within 20 days of a completed application. Once approved, you can begin septic system construction.

Construction & Inspection Process

📌 Who Can Install the System?

• The property owner
• A DEQ-licensed installer using approved materials

🔹 Pre-Cover Inspection (Before Backfill)

• Before covering the septic tank, a pre-cover inspection is required unless waived by the local onsite agent.
• Some advanced systems (e.g., sand filter systems) require multiple inspections during installation.

🔹 Inspection Process:

1. The installer submits an “as-built” plan, materials list, and system certification.
2. Within 7 days, the local onsite agent will inspect or waive the inspection.
3. Once approved, you’ll receive a certificate of satisfactory completion.

✅ After certification, your septic system is ready for use!

Septic System Permit Fees

Each step of the process has its own application and fee. Fees vary based on:
✔ The type of system
✔ Proposed sewage flow

📞 For specific fee details, contact your local onsite agent.

Need More Information?

📞 Contact Oregon Environmental Services today

• (503) 583-0640
• 📧 Email: info@oregonenvironmentalservices.com