My septic system is working just fine!

New State Wide Rules Began 1 st of 2015 replacing the 1977 code Goals Update system designs to currently available products. Provide a menu of options for property owners Consistent regulations across the State Provide limited local customization Promote good maintenance of septic systems Improve water quality, estimated failure rates up to 30%

SCPH Programs Impact Water Quality Failing septic systems affect: Ditches Streams Neighborhood green spaces Home values Overall quality of life Drinking water quality

Summit County’s

What’s new in 2015? Some adjustments such as size of systems installed Require state testing of STS contractors with minimum insurance and bonding requirements Grey water recycling systems ODH development of program forms Reduction of isolation distance requirements from septic systems to property boundaries Operation permits (can be phased in) Provides homeowner options for inspections by private industry Requires notification for inspections not related to nuisance Service contract requirements for new systems

Operation Permits SCPH will issue an initial operation permit to owners of each Sewage Treatment System over a 4 year period of time Owners will need to periodically renew the permits Owners may need to provide proof of compliance with the permit conditions

Operation Permit Terms System TypeService Contract Maintenance Requirements Frequency of Service Permit Term Pretreatment to ET Trenches or Leaching Trenches 1.Check diversion and distribution boxes 2.Check for ponding and/or surfacing sewage effluent over trenches 3.Check that interceptor and curtain drains are clear of debris and effluent 4.Check distribution boxes for structural integrity and surface water infiltration 5.Must meet all manufacturer’s requirements of the pretreatment components Once every 2 years 2 years

Operation Permit Terms System TypeService Contract Maintenance Requirements Frequency of Service Permit Term NPDES1.Check fail safe systems where applicable 2.Check aerator, pump, and high water alarm 3.Check sludge levels in trash trap/tank and pump when needed 4.Check UV light or chlorine disinfection to see if functional; refill or replace chlorine or UV bulb as needed 5.Check and clean filters 6.Evaluate final effluent quality to determine if a nuisance is present 7.Comply with all manufacturer requirements for NPDES systems 8.Comply with all EPA permit requirements including sampling 2 times per year 1 year

Operation Permit Terms System TypeService Contract Maintenance Requirements Frequency of Service Permit Term Discharging aerobic treatment systems installed prior to January 1, Check sludge levels in trash trap/tank and pump when needed 2.Check fail safe systems where applicable 3.Check aerator, pump and high water alarm 4.Check UV light or chlorine disinfection to see if functional, refill or replace chlorine or UV bulb as needed 5.Check and clean filters 6.Check the inspection port 7.Check discharge pipe for obstructions and damage 8.Evaluate final effluent quality to determine if a nuisance is present Once every year 2 years

Operation Permit Terms System TypeService Contract Maintenance Requirements Frequency of Service Permit Term Discharging filter bed systems installed prior to January 1, Check sludge levels in trash trap/tank and pump when needed 2.Check distribution box 3.Check the inspection port 4.Check discharge pipe for obstructions and damage 5.Evaluate final effluent quality to determine if a nuisance is present Once every 2 years 2 years

Operation Permit Costs NPDES operation permit will last 1 year and cost $30.00 On-lot septic systems with no pretreatment operation permits will last 2 years and cost $20.00 All other system operation permits will last 2 years and cost $30.00

What is required of owners? All STS must be covered by an operation permit NPDES (EPA) approved systems must have a service contract and be sampled yearly** All other systems must have either the required maintenance or be subject to the SCPH routine inspection program ** requirement of NPDES permit

Inspections and Storm Water Monitoring

Summit County Public Health

Warning Signs for Septic Systems Problems Slow drains Gurgling noises in pipes Wet area in the yard Septic odor in the yard or ditch Extremely lush grass growth

How does a septic system work?

Why is maintaining your septic system important?

The benefits of regular maintenance Prevents premature failure of the septic system Saves money on costly repair and replacement Reduces contamination of surface and ground water Prevents “back ups” into home

What to avoid with your septic system? Septic tank additives are not recommended Reduce your water usage! All waste water must be treated and dispersed, so try to conserve water Do NOT put any of the following into your septic system: Diapers Coffee grounds Feminine products Paint, varnish, or paint thinners Cigarette butts Grease Oil or automotive fluids YOURSELF-Never climb into a septic tank!

What is the role of Summit County Public Health?

Evaluate lots for septic suitability Review design proposals Inspect new systems Train and advise installers, designers, service providers, pumpers Educate system owners Maintain records Assure good function of septic systems When needed, enforce repairs/replacements

Questions? Summit County Public Health Water Quality Program 1867 West Market St Akron, Ohio