| Whatcom County On-Site
Sewage Systems(OSS) |
What is Operation and Maintenance (O&M)?
Operation and maintenance (O&M) is about On-Site Sewage Systems (OSS) functioning properly and being cared for correctly. In order for an OSS to continue to function properly, care must be taken by those responsible for it. Think of an OSS as a personal wastewater treatment plant. Proper monitoring, correct operation and maintenance are the responsibility of the OSS owner.
Evaluation of Your OSS
- The initial OSS evaluation must now be performed by a licensed O&M Specialist.
- Upon completion of training, homeowners may perform their own OSS evaluations for six consecutive years. Following each six year period, the next required OSS evaluation must be completed by a licensed O&M Specialist.
- A Report of System Status (ROSS) is completed at the time of the evaluation and submitted to the Whatcom County Health Department (WCHD) with a $35 filing fee.
- For each evaluation of your OSS, a ROSS must be submitted.
When do I need an OSS Evaluation?
- Once every three years for conventional gravity systems (systems consisting of a septic tank and drain field ONLY).
- Annually for all other systems unless more frequently as specified by the manufacturer.
- When a property is offered for sale and there is no current ROSS on file by an O&M Specialist.
Who are the O&M Specialists?
Professionals licensed individually by WCHD who:
- Passed an examination
- Posted a bond with WCHD
- Maintain verifiable ongoing education or continuing education units (CEU).
O&M Notification Letters
Property owners have started to receive letters notifying them of the new operation and maintenance requirements, and setting a deadline to have an evaluation of their OSS completed. The implementation has started in the Drayton Harbor watershed and will continue south along the marine shoreline and then east, until all watersheds have received the notification. Click here for an example of the initial implementation letter.
A current list of specialists is available from the Whatcom County Health Department or on the web site: www.whatcomcounty.us/health/environmental/sewage_systems/omspecialists.jsp
O&M EVERY DAY
Maintaining your OSS is not something that happens only once a year.
Daily behaviors can affect the functioning of your OSS.
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For more information, please contact the Whatcom County Health Department (360) 676-6724.
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