The purpose of the Onsite Septic System (OSS) program is to ensure proper treatment and disposal of wastewater to protect our drinking water and the environment. At GCHD we permit, inspect, and investigate complaints associated with on-site sewage systems. Other activities include site and design reviews and review of proposed land developments. The Grant County Health District is responsible for overseeing the design and installation of on-site septic systems with wastewater flows under 3,500 gallons per day.
We also maintain records of existing on-site sewage systems. These can be requested through a public records request. To assist in this process, please add as much information as possible, including the address, parcel number, year the system was installed, and the name on the original permit.
GCHD cannot accept new septic applications for properties under Grant County’s authority without first applying for a Grant County building permit. This process does not apply to most septic system repairs. A letter to septic professionals. Please note, the site plan submitted with the building application must contain all septic system components, including tanks, lines, drainfield, and reserve area, as well as the well and water distribution line from the well to the building(s). This site map must match the site map submitted with the OSS application.
Status of Applications Submitted in the Last 6 Weeks
All fillable forms must be opened in Adobe to work correctly. All designs and site plans must be sent either electronically or submitted on paper no bigger than 11"x17". Emailed applications must be sent to info@granthealth.org.
- Your septic system is at least 25 years old
- Your septic system is failing
- You’ve been contacted by local health officials
- You are under orders to fix your septic system
To determine if a homeowner can design and install their own OSS, a Site Registration must be done by a licensed Septic Designer or Professional Engineer. The site registration determines the soil type and what kind of septic system can be installed. Only if the Site Registration shows the lot conditions are acceptable for a conventional gravity septic system can the resident homeowner design their own septic system. Because the Site Registration must be done by a licensed Septic Designer or Engineer, it is almost always more efficient to have them design the septic system as well. The links below provide information if a homeowner wants to design their own gravity septic system. Pressure systems require a licensed designer and licensed installer.
There are many variables in designing septic systems which is why the Washington State Department of Licensing licenses Septic Designers like they do Professional Engineers. For this reason, the Grant County Health District cannot assist property owners in designing septic systems.
Helpful Links
- GCHD Septic System Ordinance 15-1
- Current Fee Schedule
- List of OSS Designers, Installers, and Engineers
- Washington State OSS Rule: WAC 246-272A – On-Site Sewage Systems
- WA Department of Health Wastewater Management
- Wastewater Management Rules and Regulations
- Regulatory Jurisdiction for On-site Sewage Systems