On-Site Sewage

On-Site Sewage System Program

The On-Site Sewage System Program (OSS) has regulatory oversight for all on-site sewage systems in Whatcom County. We perform a wide variety of activities to carry out this oversight that include:

  • Certification program for OSS Pumpers, Installers and Operation and Maintenance Specialists
  • Complaint investigations
  • Enforcement of OSS Codes, e.g. Whatcom County Code, WCC 24.05 and Washington Administrative Code, WAC 246-272A
  • Final Construction inspections
  • Homeowner education and notification regarding proper Operation and Maintenance of their OSS
  • Permit Issuance
  • Site Application review for new, repaired or expanded OSS
  • Subdivision, Boundary Line Adjustment and Conditional Use review
  • Survey inspections of OSS in sensitive areas

OSS Documents

  1. OSS Permit Process (PDF)
  1. Seven Ways to Save Thousands of Dollars in Septic System Repairs Brochure (PDF)