Septic in Umatilla County, OR

Last updated: Mar 21, 2026

From the cottonwood-lined streets of Pendleton to the growing neighborhoods around Hermiston, septic systems are a familiar part of daily life in Umatilla County. If you live here or are looking to buy in rural or semi-rural pockets, chances are your home relies on an on-site wastewater system. That's not a sign of a problem—it's a practical, time-tested solution that fits our landscape, soil, and spacing constraints.

Is septic common in Umatilla County? Should I expect septic if I own or buy a home?

  • Yes. Outside the city sewer boundaries, most homes rely on septic systems. In Pendleton, Hermiston, and other urban cores, sewer service is common, but many outlying properties and newer rural subdivisions still depend on on-site systems.
  • If you're purchasing a home in a rural or semi-rural part of the county, expect a septic system to be part of the package. A professional septic evaluation is essential to understand the current condition, proper sizing, and any setbacks or maintenance needs.
  • What to look for during a purchase: the age and type of the system, recent pump history, any repairs, drain-field condition, and whether a disposal field exists for typical household flows.

Why homes typically use septic systems in Umatilla County

  • Rural land use and service patterns: Large parts of the county are spread out from city sewer lines, so on-site systems have been the practical standard for generations.
  • Cost and feasibility of extending sewer: Extending municipal lines across farmland and rolling terrain can be costly and disruptive, making septic a sensible alternative for many homes.
  • Soils and climate: Local soil types and drainage characteristics influence design. Septic systems are often chosen because they can be tailored to the site, with appropriate drain fields and yard setbacks.
  • Agriculture and land management: Septics fit well with agricultural and mixed-use neighborhoods where centralized wastewater infrastructure isn't always feasible.

County growth history and how that has impacted septic coverage

  • Growth has centered in and around Pendleton and Hermiston, with new residential pockets spreading into previously rural areas. As populations shifted outward, not every new lot landed within an extended sewer system.
  • That pattern kept on-site wastewater solutions as a mainstay, even as housing density increased. In many zones, the system type and layout are shaped by soil, slope, and groundwater considerations, not just by what's fashionable or convenient.
  • The result is a landscape where septic remains a common, practical fit for homes across much of the county, backed by local expertise and a strong emphasis on proper design and maintenance.

High-level explanation (why septic exists here)

On-site systems exist here because they offer reliable, cost-effective wastewater treatment where central sewer isn't practical or needed, and when designed and maintained correctly, they harmonize with our soils and climate.

In the sections that follow, you'll find practical, neighborly guidance on maintenance, inspections, and choosing a trusted septic pro for Umatilla County homes.

How Septic Is Regulated in Umatilla County

Regulatory Authority in Umatilla County

  • In Umatilla County, the public health system administers on-site wastewater systems (OWTS) through the Environmental Health division. They handle permits, plan reviews, site evaluations, inspections during installation, and ongoing maintenance compliance.
  • State oversight comes from Oregon agencies that set minimum standards. County staff implement those rules locally, with local site conditions and capacity shaping how the rules are applied.

What rules apply

  • Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) outline design, installation, operation, and abandonment of OWTS.
  • Local supplements: Umatilla County may add site-specific requirements (soil considerations, setback distances, and component approvals) to ensure systems work well in local conditions.
  • Rules cover allowable system types, setbacks from wells and waterways, soil/percolation criteria, and requirements for durable, maintainable components.

Permits and design approval process

  1. Site evaluation: A licensed professional (soil scientist or engineer) assesses soil characteristics and depth to groundwater to determine OWTS suitability.
  2. Plan development: A design plan is prepared showing tank sizing, drainfield layout, percolation test results, setbacks, and proposed components.
  3. Application: Submit the plan and permit application to Umatilla County Public Health, Environmental Health for review.
  4. Review and approval: County staff verify code compliance, test results, and that the proposed design fits the site; may request changes.
  5. Installation permit: Upon approval, an installation permit is issued to a licensed OWTS installer.
  6. Installation and inspections: The county inspector visits during key milestones (grading, trenching, backfill, tank placement, and final connections) to ensure standards are met.
  7. Final certification: After a successful final inspection and system testing, the County issues a Certificate of Completion.

Operating, inspecting, and maintaining

  • Regular maintenance is essential to protect public health and groundwater. Pumping schedules often range every 3-5 years, but frequency depends on tank size, household usage, and the drainfield's condition.
  • Homeowners must prevent damage to the system: avoid dumping fats/oils, harsh chemicals, non-biodegradable items, and heavy vehicle traffic over the drainfield.
  • Local requirements may include pumping records, inspection intervals at time of sale, and notification if drainage or odors appear.

Compliance and enforcement

  • Responsibility sits with the homeowner to maintain operation and scheduling of pump-outs. County staff can issue notices of violation or require repairs or system upgrades if a problem is found.
  • If a system is failing or noncompliant, the county will outline remediation steps, permit requirements, and timelines to bring the system back into compliance.

How to engage with the process

  • Start with a licensed OWTS designer or soil professional to determine site feasibility and rough cost estimates.
  • Contact Umatilla County Public Health, Environmental Health for guidance on forms, fees, and required documents.
  • Work with a licensed installer who understands county inspection expectations and state design standards.

Official resources to consult

  • Umatilla County Public Health – Environmental Health page for OWTS permitting, inspections, and program details:
  • Oregon Health Authority – On-Site Wastewater Program:
  • Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ):

Soil, Groundwater & Environmental Factors in Umatilla County

Local soil characteristics

  • Umatilla County features a mix of soils, from well-drained sandy loams to heavier clays, with occasional shallow bedrock or rocky surfaces. Soils influence how well a septic system's drainfield will absorb effluent.
  • Infiltration rate, depth to bedrock, and depth to seasonal high water all affect system design. Slow or limited infiltration may require a longer drainfield or alternate wastewater treatment approaches.
  • Short paragraphs and site notes:
    • Look for shallow soils or perched groundwater that reduce absorption.
    • Rocks and gravel can alter flow paths and complicate trench layout.
  • For a site-specific picture, use the NRCS Web Soil Survey:

Flood risk, surface water, and environmental inputs

  • Areas near the Columbia River and some streams can be prone to flooding, which can affect septic system performance and cause surface overflow if the drainage field is not designed for inundation risks.
  • Do not place disposal fields in flood-prone zones. Be aware that seasonal runoff and flood events can impact nearby surface water and groundwater.
  • Useful resources:

Environmental protections and best practices

  • Protect groundwater and surface water by limiting the use of hazardous household chemicals near the septic system, using septic-safe products, and practicing regular maintenance.
  • Minimize irrigation or disposal activities directly over the drainfield, and avoid compaction over the absorption area.
  • Routine maintenance, timely pumping, and correct disposal of fats, oils, and greases extend system life and protect local water resources.
  • Official references for broader guidance: https://www.epa.gov/septic

Practical assessment steps for homeowners

  1. Identify your soils and site constraints using official maps (soil type, depth to bedrock, and drainage potential).
  2. Obtain a site evaluation from a licensed OWTS designer or certified installer to determine drainfield size and layout based on soil and groundwater conditions.
  3. Check setback and permitting requirements with Oregon DEQ OWTS guidelines before any installation or modification: https://www.oregon.gov/deq/programs/land/onsite-wastewater/Pages/index.aspx
  4. Avoid placing the drainfield in floodplains or over known shallow groundwater zones; consider elevated or alternative designs if necessary.
  5. Schedule regular system maintenance and monitoring, especially in areas with fluctuating water tables or heavy irrigation, and use environmentally safe products.

Official resources for deeper planning

Typical Septic System Types in Umatilla County

Conventional gravity septic systems

  • What they are: The most common setup where soil percolation is suitable. A tank separates solids, and effluent drains by gravity into a trench or bed lined drainfield.
  • Typical components: Septic tank, distribution box, perforated pipes, and a drainfield/absorption area.
  • When they fit: Works well on sites with permeable soil and adequate depth to groundwater; less suitable where soils are shallow or bedrock is near the surface.
  • Pros and cons:
    • Pros: Lower upfront cost, simple design, few moving parts.
    • Cons: Performance depends on soil quality; compacted or clay soils reduce drainage; improper loading can clog the system.
  • Maintenance steps:
    1. Pump the tank every 3–5 years (family size and usage may vary).
    2. Protect the drainfield: avoid parking, heavy equipment, or roots over it.
    3. Use water-smart habits to reduce load.
    4. Have inspections if you notice slow drains, gurgling toilets, or wet spots in the yard.
    5. Keep cleaners, solvents, and excessive fats out of the system.
  • Local note: In Umatilla County, soil and slope conditions influence feasibility; career pros often evaluate site-specific soil tests before installation.

Mound systems

  • What they are: Elevated drainfields built when the native soil is too shallow, too compacted, or has a high water table.
  • Typical components: A shallow septic tank, a pump or siphon if needed, a raised sand fill mound, distribution lines, and a soil cover.
  • When they fit: Used where conventional systems won't percolate or where seasonal groundwater impedes a standard drainfield.
  • Pros and cons:
    • Pros: Expands usable building sites; better treatment in challenging soils.
    • Cons: Higher upfront cost; more maintenance access required; mound surfaces can require mowing and protection.
  • Maintenance steps:
    1. Inspect surface for erosion or settling.
    2. Ensure vegetation isn't compacting the mound.
    3. Regularly monitor effluent flow and odor indicators.
    4. Schedule professional inspections every 1–2 years.
  • Local note: Mounds are common in areas with limited soil depth or restrictive soils; installation requires careful engineering and local permitting.

Aerobic Treatment Units (ATUs)

  • What they are: Pre-treat wastewater with controlled aeration to improve effluent quality before it enters the drainfield.
  • Typical components: ATU unit, an odor-control component, a leach field or spray/ infiltrative system, and an alarm/monitoring device.
  • When they fit: Helpful in marginal soils, limited space, or where higher wastewater strength is anticipated.
  • Pros and cons:
    • Pros: Higher quality effluent, can extend drainfield life in tough soils; compact footprint.
    • Cons: More electrical and mechanical parts; annual service is usually required; higher maintenance costs.
  • Maintenance steps:
    1. Schedule regular service visits (at least annually) with a licensed operator.
    2. Check alarms and electrical components monthly.
    3. Avoid flushing harsh chemicals or non-biodegradable products.
    4. Keep the area around the unit accessible for service.
  • Official guidance: See Oregon DEQ Onsite Wastewater Program for system design and maintenance standards:
  • Resources: EPA septic systems guide for general maintenance practices: https://www.epa.gov/septic

Evapotranspiration (ET) beds

  • What they are: In hot, dry climates, ET beds use plant growth and evaporation to remove water from the soil-awash treatment area.
  • When they fit: Suitable where groundwater and surface water conditions support evapotranspiration; less common in wetter or high-water-table zones.
  • Pros and cons:
    • Pros: Low-energy approach; simple surface vegetation management.
    • Cons: Requires specific climate and soil conditions; not universally appropriate.
  • Maintenance steps:
    1. Maintain plant cover and prevent weed overgrowth.
    2. Avoid soil compaction over the bed.
    3. Monitor for surface dampness or odors indicating improper performance.
  • Local note: ET beds are less common in eastern Oregon but may be installed where site conditions permit.

Drip irrigation and pressure-distributed disposal

  • What they are: Treated effluent is distributed through drip lines or a pressure-distribution system to irrigate landscaping or fields.
  • When they fit: Useful for properties with limited drainfield area and irrigation needs; requires permit and professional design.
  • Pros and cons:
    • Pros: Space-efficient; can reuse treated water for landscaping.
    • Cons: Higher upfront cost; requires ongoing maintenance and water-quality monitoring.
  • Maintenance steps:
    1. Inspect emitters and lines for clogs; flush lines as recommended.
    2. Protect lines from root intrusion and physical damage.
    3. Use approved, non-irritating irrigation water management practices.
  • Resources: For general guidance on reuse and drip systems, consult EPA and Oregon DEQ guidance linked above.

Resources

Typical Septic Issues Across Umatilla County

Common symptoms you might notice

  • Slow drains, frequent clogs, or backups in sinks, tubs, or toilets.
  • A strong sewage odor near the septic system or in the yard.
  • Soggy or unusually green patches, pooled water, or damp soil over the drainfield.
  • gurgling noises from pipes or a noticeable flow of effluent on the surface after rainfall.
  • Unexplained wet spots, lush weeds, or muddy soil around the tank or leach field.

Frequent causes seen in Umatilla County

  • Insufficient pumping or neglecting regular inspections, leading to solids buildup that clogs the tank and reduces effluent disposal capacity.
  • Inappropriate waste disposal practices, including grease, oils, cat litter, feminine products, wipes, and chemicals that harm beneficial bacteria.
  • Tree roots or landscaping encroaching on the drainfield, causing blockages or damaged pipes.
  • Drainfield overloading from high water use (long showers, multiple loads of laundry, irrigation runoff) or a home addition without upgrading the system.
  • Soil and groundwater dynamics, such as perched water tables, seasonal saturation, or poorly drained soils that slow effluent absorption.
  • Improper system design or aging infrastructure (tanks, pumps, effluent filters) that no longer meet current usage or soil conditions.
  • Vehicle or livestock activity over the drainfield, which compact soil and damage distributions.
  • Wet seasons can saturate drainfields, pushing effluent to the surface or causing backups.
  • In areas with heavy clay or shallow soils, infiltration rates can decrease, accelerating solids buildup and field failure if maintenance is delayed.
  • Cold temperatures slow bacterial activity inside the tank, emphasizing the need for year-round maintenance in rural homes.
  • Roots from trees or shrubs planted too close to the system are a common, ongoing issue in older parcels with established landscaping.

Step-by-step: what to do if you suspect a problem

  1. Protect health and the system: avoid flushing wipes, medications, chemicals, or large amounts of water down sinks and toilets until you assess the issue.
  2. Record symptoms: note backups, odors, damp spots, or surface effluent and when they occur (seasonal, after heavy use, etc.).
  3. Check simple house factors: reduce water use for 24–48 hours, verify fixtures aren't leaking, and ensure gutters drain away from the drainfield.
  4. Schedule a professional evaluation: contact a licensed septic contractor or a local soil/onsite professional to inspect the tank, risers, baffles, and the drainfield. Pumping the tank may be needed to reveal problems hidden by solids.
  5. Get a written plan: after assessment, obtain a repair or maintenance plan with costs and a timeline, and keep records for future maintenance.

Maintenance tips to prevent issues

  • Schedule regular pumping and inspection every 3–5 years (more often if you have a garbage disposal or a smaller system).
  • Use septic-safe products and minimize chemical cleaners; dispose of fats, oils, and wipes properly.
  • Limit water use and spread out laundry and dishwasher loads; consider water-saving fixtures.
  • Plant vegetation away from the drainfield and avoid parking or driving on it.
  • Keep surface water away from the system; ensure proper grading and drainage around the mound or leach field.
  • Maintain effluent filters and inspect lids, access risers, and tank components for signs of damage.

Resources

  • Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) – Onsite Wastewater Program:
  • Oregon State University Extension – Onsite Sewage Systems (trustworthy homeowner guidance): https://extension.oregonstate.edu/

Septic Inspection, Permits & Local Oversight

Who regulates septic systems in Umatilla County

  • Oregon's statewide Onsite Sewage Treatment Systems (OSTS) program is administered by the state Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). Local counties, including Umatilla County, handle permits, inspections, and enforcement to ensure systems are installed and maintained properly.
  • Your county Environmental Health team is the official point of contact for permits, inspections, records, and any required O&M (operation and maintenance) activities. They coordinate with DEQ for state-wide standards and compliance.

Permits you may need

  • New installation or replacement: You'll need a county-issued installation permit before you start, plus soil and site evaluations as required. The permit ensures the design meets state and county setback, soil, and design criteria.
  • Repairs or upgrades: If you modify an existing system, you may need a repair or modification permit from the county. This helps verify the work will continue to meet performance and safety standards.
  • Operation & maintenance and ongoing compliance: Some counties require documentation of routine maintenance, pump-outs, or an annual or periodic inspection as part of system ownership. Check with your local Environmental Health office to confirm any O&M reporting requirements.

Inspections for real estate transfers

  • In Oregon, many counties require or strongly recommend an OSTS transfer inspection during a property sale to confirm the system is functioning properly and that paperwork is in order.
  • Steps to plan:
    1. Contact the Umatilla County Environmental Health office to request a transfer inspection.
    2. Hire a DEQ-licensed or county-approved OSTS inspector to perform the evaluation.
    3. Obtain a certificate of compliance or a written report detailing any needed repairs, with timelines for completion.

The typical process, step by step

  1. Confirm permit needs with your county Environmental Health office (installation, repair, or transfer inspection).
  2. Prepare and submit required plans, site diagrams, and soil/percolation data as requested.
  3. Schedule inspections at key milestones (pre-installation meeting, after installation, or for transfer inspections).
  4. Complete any required corrections or follow-up work and obtain final approval or Certificate of Compliance.
  5. Maintain ongoing records with the county and DEQ, including pump dates and service reports.

What to expect during an inspection

  • Access and safety: Inspectors verify that the access risers, lids, and viewable components are safe and accessible.
  • System performance: Visual inspection of tanks, filters, pumps, and effluent dispersal fields; testing may be performed as needed.
  • Documentation review: Confirm permit numbers, as-built drawings, recent maintenance, and any corrective actions.
  • Compliance status: The inspector will note any deficiencies and required remedial work with timelines.

Documentation to gather

  • The original system permit and any amendments or modifications.
  • As-built diagram or record of system layout including tank locations and leach fields.
  • Recent maintenance logs, pump dates, and servicing records.
  • Any previous inspection reports or certificates of compliance.

Resources and contacts

  • Oregon DEQ Onsite Sewage Treatment Systems (OSTS) overview and guidance:
  • Umatilla County Environmental Health: contact your local office for permit forms, inspection scheduling, and local requirements (keep handy the department's phone and email after you locate the official page).

Cost Expectations for Septic Services in Umatilla County

Septic Tank Pumping and Cleaning

  • What this includes: Pumping out sludge and scum, inspecting tank interior for cracks or damaged baffles, emptying wastewater, and re-sealing lids. Often includes basic disposal coordination and a quick system health check.
  • Umatilla County specifics: Rural homes with livestock or seasonal cabins may have longer drive times and access challenges; winter road conditions can affect scheduling and may add travel fees.
  • Typical cost in Umatilla County: 1,000–1,500 gallon tanks generally $200–$500; 1,500 gallon tanks $250–$550. Add-on travel fees commonly $25–$75, sometimes $50–$150 if outside core service areas.

Septic System Inspection and Diagnostic

  • What this includes: Visual inspection of all components (tank, pumps, effluent lines, leach field), odor checks, water tests if needed, history review, and sometimes dye tests or camera inspection when problems are suspected or for pre-purchase testing.
  • Umatilla County specifics: If your property is remote or has an older installation, inspectors may recommend camera or dye assessments to verify prior repairs and current performance.
  • Typical cost in Umatilla County: $150–$350 for standard inspections; more comprehensive diagnostics (including camera inspection) can run $300–$600.

Perc Test and Soil Evaluation (for new or expanded systems)

  • What this includes: Soil borings, percolation testing, and soil opacity assessment to determine suitability for a leach field and system size. May require multiple tests across seasons in some soils.
  • Umatilla County specifics: Eastern Oregon soils can be variable (including clay-heavy zones); remote properties may require longer field days and equipment access, plus county permitting coordination.
  • Typical cost in Umatilla County: $500–$1,500 for a standard per-test/soil evaluation; more complex site work or multiple test pits can push toward $1,500–$2,000.

Drain Field Evaluation and Repair

  • What this includes: Field assessment for sludge buildup, moisture lingering, or evidence of effluent surface expression; may involve dye testing, moisture probes, or CCTV if lines are accessible. Repairs can include trench rodding, lateral replacements, or header work.
  • Umatilla County specifics: Long drive times and property access issues can affect scheduling; local soils and landscape features influence repair strategies and costs.
  • Typical cost in Umatilla County: Evaluation $200–$600; minor repairs $1,000–$3,000; more extensive repairs or partial rebuilds $3,000–$8,000+.

Drain Field Replacement and System Installation

  • What this includes: Full or partial replacement of the leach field, new piping, gravel, backfill, site restoration, and all required permits and inspections.
  • Umatilla County specifics: Costs rise with difficult access, long distance trucking of materials, and the need for soil or groundwater considerations unique to the site; scheduling may be impacted by weather.
  • Typical cost in Umatilla County: Generally $5,000–$20,000 for moderate replacements; $10,000–$25,000+ for larger or more complex installations; exceptional conditions or full system rebuilds can exceed $40,000.

Aerobic/Alternative System Maintenance

  • What this includes: Regular service visits, pump and filter maintenance, chemical dosing checks, and monitoring for systems that use mechanical or aerobic components.
  • Umatilla County specifics: Some homes rely on these higher-tech systems; maintenance contracts are common to cover routine service and supply needs.
  • Typical cost in Umatilla County: Monthly service typically $50–$150; initial startup or upgrade service $1,000–$3,000 depending on system type and access.

Tank Lids, Risers, and Access Maintenance

  • What this includes: Installing or repairing risers and secure lids for safe, easy access; often improves inspection and pumping efficiency.
  • Umatilla County specifics: Rural properties with uneven terrain may benefit from risers to reduce disturbance to yards or fences.
  • Typical cost in Umatilla County: Risers $300–$1,000 installed; lids $150–$300 each, plus labor.

System Abandonment/Decommissioning

  • What this includes: Properly decommissioning an unused or decommissioned tank, filling, sealing, and site restoration per code; may require soil verification.
  • Umatilla County specifics: Decommissioning often needed on abandoned parcels or when replacing a system; permits and disposal fees apply.
  • Typical cost in Umatilla County: $1,000–$3,000 depending on tank type, depth, and site access.

Maintenance Plans and Scheduling

  • What this includes: Regularly scheduled service, reminders for pumping, and bundled maintenance to prevent failures.
  • Umatilla County specifics: Rural properties benefit from proactive contracts to avoid unexpected outages during harvest seasons or winter.
  • Typical cost in Umatilla County: $100–$300 per year for basic maintenance contracts; some plans include discounted pumping.

Official resources

Septic vs Sewer Across Umatilla County

How sewer service is organized in Umatilla County

  • In Umatilla County, sewer service is typically managed by cities and special districts. If you live in an incorporated town, you'll likely be connected to a municipal wastewater system.
  • Rural and some unincorporated areas rely on individual septic systems, since full sewer lines may not be available.
  • If you're unsure who serves your address, start with the city or county planning or public works office to confirm availability and any enrollment steps.

For official guidance on wastewater systems, check the Oregon DEQ Onsite Wastewater Program: and the county's general information at https://www.co.umatilla.or.us/.'>https://www.co.umatilla.or.us/.

Pros and cons at a glance

  • Septic system (existing)
    • Pros: often lower monthly costs after installation, independence from city sewer schedules,控tractive for rural properties.
    • Cons: requires regular pumping and maintenance, potential repair costs if the drainfield fails, environmental risk if not properly managed.
  • City/sewer connection
    • Pros: no on-site maintenance, centralized treatment managed by professionals, predictable monthly service charges.
    • Cons: upfront connection fees and potential increases in monthly rates, possible need for trenching or upsizing utilities, occasional maintenance outages managed by the district.

Cost considerations for Umatilla County residents

  • Connection or hookup fees to join a sewer district or city system: widely variable, often several thousand dollars or more depending on distance to the main, readiness of the sewer line, and any required trenching or upgrades.
  • Monthly sewer charges: typically in the range of a few dozen to around a hundred dollars, depending on district and water usage.
  • Ongoing on-site costs (if keeping septic during transition): regular septic pumping every 3–5 years, inspection fees, and any necessary drainfield repairs.
  • Environmental and regulatory costs: potential assessments if your property is in a sensitive area; be aware of local ordinances about septic systems during and after conversion.

Steps to take if you're considering sewer connection

  1. Confirm availability for your address with the local city or sewer district.
  2. Request a formal estimate that includes hookup fees, any required trenching, and possible system upgrades.
  3. Have your current septic system evaluated by a licensed professional to understand condition and pumping history.
  4. Check permitting requirements with Umatilla County and your district; ask about any owner-occupied transfer or construction permits.
  5. Schedule the connection work and plan for any temporary accommodations if your systems must be offline during the upgrade.
  6. Review waste disposal plans during the transition (what to flush, what to avoid) and set up billing with the sewer provider.

Maintenance reminders after a connection

  • Keep an eye on monthly bills and usage to detect unusual increases early.
  • Avoid flushing non-degradables or chemicals that can disrupt treatment or harm the system.
  • If you still manage any on-site drainage, maintain proper grading, drainage around the foundation, and soil absorption areas.
  • Schedule regular inspections per district requirements and pump-out recommendations if you still operate a connected septic area for reserve or secondary use.
  • Coordinate with the district on any required backflow prevention or water-use restrictions.

Official resources