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Maintaining Your Septic System
how often should your system be inspected?
Homeowners are responsible for getting their system inspected on a regular basis. The frequency that a system should be inspected depends on what type of system you have. Take a look at the monitoring & maintenance frequencies below to see how often your system should be inspected. The Health Department maintains an up-to-date list of certified septic professionals to help you find a provider.
View this info about inspection schedules in a print-friendly format.
- Gravity System
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An inspection is required once every three years.
For newly installed gravity systems that have a pump, an inspection is also recommended 6 months after the system is in use.
- Low Pressure Distribution System (LPD)
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An inspection is required annually.
For newly installed systems, an inspection is also recommended 6 months after the system is in use.
- Low Pressure Distribution System (LPD) with an Aerobic Treatment Unit (ATU)
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An inspection is required annually. The manufacturer may recommend more frequent inspections. For more info, reach out to the manufacturer or visit Washington State Department of Health for a List of Registered On-site Treatment & Distribution Products
For newly installed systems, inspections are also required every 6 months over a 2-year period once the system is in use.
- Subsurface Drip System (SSD)
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An inspection is required annually. The manufacturer may recommend more frequent inspections. For more info, reach out to the manufacturer or visit Washington State Department of Health for a List of Registered On-site Treatment & Distribution Products.
For newly installed systems, an inspection is also required 6 months after the system is in use.
- Subsurface Drip System (SSD) with an Aerobic Treatment Unit (ATU)
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An inspection is required annually. The manufacturer may recommend more frequent inspections. For more info, reach out to the manufacturer or visit Washington State Department of Health for a List of Registered On-site Treatment & Distribution Products
For newly installed systems, inspections are also required every 6 months over a 2-year period once the system is in use.
- Oscar System
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An inspection is required annually. The manufacturer may recommend more frequent inspections. For more info, reach out to the manufacturer or visit Washington State Department of Health for a List of Registered On-site Treatment & Distribution Products
For newly installed systems, inspections are also required every 6 months over a 2-year period once the system is in use.
- Mound System
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An inspection is required annually.
For newly installed systems, an inspection is also required 6 months after the system is in use.
- Sand Filter System
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An inspection is required annually.
For newly installed systems, an inspection is also required 6 months after the system is in use.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOUR SYSTEM BE PUMPED?
How often your system will need to be pumped depends on many factors, such as the number of people in your household and how well you treat your septic system. For some households, the tank may need to be pumped every two years, and for others it may be five or more years before it needs to be pumped. Because it can vary, it's recommended to get your system pumped when a septic professional recommends to after inspecting your system. They will be able to take measurements to determine if it is time to get it pumped.
Repairs
If your septic system needs to be repaired, you may need a permit from the Health Department. The information below will help you determine whether or not a permit is required for the work being done.
Minor Repairs
Minor repairs can be done by certified septic professionals without a permit. After an inspection, a septic professional will be able to tell you if the repair your system needs will require a permit or not. Limited repairs include:
- System controls repair
- System pump repair
- Baffle installation/repair
- Effluent filter installation/repair
- Minor tank repair
Major Repairs & Permits
If your system needs a major repair, there are specific steps to follow to make sure to comply with the Snohomish County Health Department and Washington State regulations. Below are examples of major repairs that require a permit. See our Find a Contractor page for information on hiring certified septic professionals.
- Tank replacement
- Drainfield alteration or replacement
- Whole system replacement
If a licensed septic professional determines that your system needs to be repaired or replaced and a permit is required, contact a licensed septic designer to design a repair and follow the steps to apply for a permit.
FInancial assistance through Savvy Septic
We want you to be able to make necessary repairs to your system and keep up with routine maintenance. For information on financial assistance offered through the Savvy Septic program, visit the Savvy Septic page.
Still have questions?
Get technical assistance! Email SHD-EHQ@snoco.org