Environmental Health

Director: Jennifer Johnson

Skagit County Health Department
On Site Sewage Program Information

Septic systems treat sewage on the property where it is generated. Over 18,000 septic systems in Skagit County clean and recycle sewage contaminated water into clean groundwater every day in Skagit County. On-site sewage treatment can work as well or better than large wastewater treatment plants with proper design, installation, and maintenance.

Septic System Inspection Requirements

Septic systems require routine inspection! (WAC 246-272A-0270).

Your septic system is a valuable investment. Just like your home or car, your septic system needs regular attention and maintenance to function for many years to come. Regular maintenance starts with inspections! Inspections can help identify and repair small problems before they become large issues that can cause illness, pollute water, and compound into larger more expensive repairs or a system failure. Timely inspections and active management of your septic system can keep it operational for much longer than with system abuse or neglect.

How often does my system need to be inspected?
In order to assure that your system is functioning, Washington State Code (WAC 246-272A-0270) requires that your septic system be inspected at least every year by a qualified inspector OR at least every three years for simple gravity systems.

Who can inspect a septic system?
Septic systems must be inspected by certified Operations and Maintenance Specialists, see “System Maintenance Providers” on the right. Under certain conditions, homeowners may become certified to inspect their own gravity septic system through our Septics Education Program.

How will the County know my system has been inspected?
Inspectors complete an inspection form, upload that information to a database, and the information is provided to the Health Department. Basic information from the inspection is available on line through the county's records search webpage: Septic Search

My septic tank was pumped. Is that an inspection?
No. Your septic inspection should always determine if you need to pump. A general recommendation is to pump when your septic tank is 1/3 full of solid materials. Don’t waste money by pumping unnecessarily!

Are there special requirements if my system has a special treatment system?
Yes, these systems require ANNUAL inspections. They require a maintenance contract with a certified Operations & Maintenance Specialist. This information must be recorded on your property title so that future property owners become aware of this contract (Sample Title Notice).

What if my septic system fails the inspection?
Your inspection may show that the system needs maintenance, repair, or that the tank is due to be pumped. Sometimes a simple repair can fix a small problem now that might turn into a large problem (expensive!) later. The inspection may also show that your system is failing. In the case of a failure you need to take action to prevent pollution and comply with code. You will need to contact a septic system designer or installer to repair or replace the failing system which requires a permit.
[Current designer/installer lists]

Is there financial assistance for repairs to failing septic systems?
If you have a septic system failure (drainfield, septic tank, or other components) you may qualify for a low interest loan. To qualify all you need to have are two things: good credit and a failing septic system. Call the Skagit County Treasurer's Office for more information at (360)416-1750.

I’m selling a/my house, do I need an inspection?
Skagit County requires septic system inspections before property sales and real estate transfers. The seller has the responsibility to have an inspection completed; the buyer has the right to see a completed inspection report before closing.
For more resources see Information for real estate professionals: Facts and FAQs