Permitting

The Permitting Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

Getting a permit for a new or replacement septic system can be a complex process, but our staff is here to be a resource for you and your designer. Our experienced Sanitarians review hundreds of designs a year and can help find creative and efficient solutions for your property.

The process generally involves three key stages: 

Step 1: Site Registration (The Evaluation)

Purpose: To evaluate your property's soil and site conditions to determine if it can support a septic system.

  • Who's Involved: A licensed designer that you hire.
  • What Happens:
    • Your designer assesses key site characteristics like soil depth, texture, and water tables.
    • They submit a Site Registration, a formal document detailing these findings, to the County.
    • This registration is recorded and does not expire, unless site conditions are significantly changed by activities like grading or logging.

Step 2: Permit Application (The Design)

Purpose: To obtain an approved design and permit to construct a septic system tailored to your property and home.

  • Who's Involved: Your licensed designer and Island County Public Health.
  • What Happens:
    • Based on the Site Registration and your planned use of the property (e.g., number of bedrooms), your designer will draw up a detailed system plan.
    • The plan must show the location of all important features, including the well, drainfield, house, driveways, and any critical areas.
    • The designer submits this application to the Health Department for review. Once approved, a permit is issued that is valid for three years.

Step 3: As-Built (The Final Record)

Purpose: To create an official, final map and record of your septic system as it was actually installed on your property.

  • Who's Involved: Your licensed installer.
  • What Happens:
    • After the system is installed, the installer creates a scaled drawing, known as an "as-built".
    • This drawing details the exact location of all system components and lists crucial technical information, such as pump models and timer settings.
    • The as-built is a vital document for you, the homeowner, as it is used to locate components for future maintenance and troubleshooting.

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