Report a Septic Problem

The Snohomish County Health Department investigates complaints and problems with septic systems in Snohomish County. If you see surfacing sewage or someone dumping wastewater illegally, you can submit a complaint online. Complaints can be submitted anonymously. Expect a reply regarding the situation after an initial investigation is complete.

Complaints can be also be mailed to:

Environmental Health Division
Land Use Program
3020 Rucker Avenue
Suite 104
Everett, WA 98201-3900

hOW CAN I TELL IF IT'S SEWAGE?

Examples of surfacing sewage

There are many substances that can be mistaken for sewage. If you are not sure, there are a few telltale signs. Surfacing sewage typically has a strong sewage odor and a murky, foggy, or milky appearance (see images in the slideshow above).

ExAMPLES THAT ARE NOT surfacing sewage

There are a few substances that look unpleasant but are not surfacing sewage. One of these substances is iron bacteria which is a red/orange-colored bacteria. It typically looks fuzzy and may have an oily sheen. Iron bacteria tends to develop in slow moving or standing water. It can have an unpleasant odor, but it does not smell like sewage. It is naturally occurring and harmless even though it may look strange. Another substance often mistaken for sewage is blue-green algae. Blue-green algae can be found in lakes and other slow moving water, often creating a bright green surface. Blue green algae blooms can create toxic conditions and cause public closures at lakes and shores, but its presence doesn't mean there is sewage in the water.