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1. Should I use an additive in my septic tank?

Most additives do not have any positive effect on your septic tank. Nothing you add to your tank will improve normal bacterial action.

2. When is an OSS permit needed?

You need an OSS permit (septic system permit) any time you construct, repair, replace, modify, connect to, or expand your septic system. You do not need an OSS permit when you:

• Replace a baffle in a septic tank.
• Fix a broken house sewer pipe.
• Replace a pump control float.
• Fix or replace septic risers, lids or inspection ports.
• Replace a septic pump.

Your OSS permit does not mean that you have met any other legal requirements like building codes or zoning ordinances. You must also comply with relevant permit requirements from other agencies before you begin work on your system. For example, you may need to get a land disturbance permit from Whatcom County Planning and Development Services. 

On-Site Sewage

3. Can I design my own OSS?

State and county sewage control regulations require that either a licensed OSS designer or Registered Professional Engineer design your OSS. The state issues Licenses for Designers and Engineers. Washington State Department of Licensing

4. Can I install my own OSS after I obtain an OSS permit?

Whatcom County code requires that all OSS be installed by a licensed OSS installer; however, if you are the property owner and you will live in the home the OSS will serve, you can request an exemption from certification requirements. The request will be reviewed and if approved, you can install the OSS. We recommend that you hire a Licensed OSS Installer for complex systems, e.g. pressure systems or alternative systems.

Developers must hire a Licensed OSS Installer or obtain an OSS Installer's License through the Health Department to install OSS on properties they plan to develop and then sell.

Exemption From Certification Requirements (PDF)

5. Do you have a copy of my OSS permit?

Health Department documents related to OSS and Drinking Water in Whatcom County can now be found online. Related Documents

6. How do I clean up sewage that has backed up into my house?

Please see the following guidelines from the Washington State Department of Health in regards to sewage cleanup. Cleaning Up a Sewage Spill

7. What are some signs that my OSS is failing?

Some warning signs of a failure are odors, surfacing sewage, soggy spots with lush green grass growth in the drain field or septic tank area, plumbing or septic tank backups, slow draining fixtures, or gurgling sounds in the plumbing system. If you suspect that your OSS is failing, contact us for assistance. Health Department

8. How can I find my septic tank?

If you have an as-built tank, locating the septic tank will be easy. If 1 is not available you or your pumper will need to use some investigative skills. If a crawl space is available you may determine where the plumbing leaves the foundation wall and then use a probe bar to find the tank. Use caution as fiberglass or polyethylene tanks can be ruptured with a probe bar. Probing works best if the tank is not more than 1-2 feet under the surface.

If a crawl space is not available, you can sometimes use the plumbing vents located in the roof. A plumbing vent may align with the exit point of the sewer line leading to the septic tank. If these options don't work it may be necessary to use an electronic detection device with a transmitter that can be flushed down the toilet.

9. What is the reserve area?

The reserve area is designated on your OSS Permit and is another area approved for the installation of a new drain field in case the main drain field fails. The reserve are must be kept clear of impermeable surfaces, e.g. buildings and pavement. If your OSS permit was issued more than 5 years ago, you may need to have your reserve area redesigned to meet current code requirements.