Current feedback opportunities
Our Health Code webpage is updated with current code projects available for review and feedback, including:
public sewer connections
Washington State rules for septic systems outline several cases where new construction needs to connect to a public sewer system or where a failing septic system needs to connect to a public sewer system instead of repairing the system. We developed an ordinance that would outline how these state rules operate in Snohomish County. The proposed ordinance is available on our webpage, accompanied by the February Board of Health staff report and presentation.
The Board of Health heard a briefing on public sewer connections this month and the public comment period for this ordinance is now open through March 10, 2026. See the "Connecting to public sewer" tab on our webpage for project materials and more information on submitting a public comment.
Property transfer inspections
We are continuing to develop a program that meets a new state requirement that all septic systems must be inspected when a property is sold. This program will be launching later this year, after more than a year of development with local interested parties.
An updated proposed process, draft application sheet, and draft ordinance that would codify this rule are now available on our webpage for final review. We are seeking feedback on these items through mid-March 2026. We anticipate that the Board of Health may hear a briefing on this topic in March, with action on the ordinance following in April, and the new program would be effective November 1, 2026.
If you own a home with a septic system, here’s what this new rule will mean for you:
- Inspection required: A certified septic professional needs to inspect your system. Inspections can be completed up to a year before the sale closes.
- Pumping required if needed: Tanks requiring pumping must be pumped, which can be determined during the inspection.
- Records on file: An as-built record must be on file with the Health Department. If you don’t have one, your septic professional can create a site plan instead.
- Submit a Report of Property Transfer application to the Health Department: The Health Department reviews the system’s service history and identifies any potential issues. The seller needs to provide the buyer with this information as part of the disclosure process.
If you’re thinking about selling in the next year, now is a great time to start talking with your certified septic professional or real estate professional about how this new rule may affect your sale plans.
other upcoming topics
Next time, we'll have more information about our two other active code concepts that are under development:
- Fee schedule adjustments: we are beginning work on updates to our fee schedule for 2026–2027 and 2027–2028. We’re taking up the next two round of updates earlier than usual so we can incorporate accurate projections into the County’s 2027–2028 biennial budget. While we plan to bring the associated ordinances forward this spring, the updated fee amounts would still take effect November 1 of each year.
- Septic contractor reporting: we have been working to update septic contractor reporting requirements and to create a new reporting guide that covers reporting best practices. This topic has been under development for the last several months and we expect that the Board of Health may hear a briefing on this topic this spring.
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