About
The Septic/Onsite Division monitors all onsite septic systems within Klamath County boundaries, in coordination with the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ).
In areas where public sewer is not available, homeowners must install onsite systems for treating residential or commercial wastewater. All plumbing fixtures such as toilets, sinks, bathtubs, showers, washing machines, dishwashers, or anything else that generates wastewater must be connected to an approved septic system.
Onsite systems must be designed according to Klamath County standards and DEQ rules. Once an onsite permit is issued, the septic system must be inspected and approved by a Wastewater Specialist. Please submit all completed final inspection forms (click HERE to download) to onsite@klamathcounty.org.
Health and Safety
Inadequately treated sewage from failing onsite wastewater treatment systems poses a substantial threat to human health, as disease and infection may be transferred to animals and people directly and immediately. Dysentery, hepatitis, typhoid fever, and acute gastrointestinal illness are some of the more serious examples of diseases spread from untreated wastewater. Inadequately treated sewage from failing septic systems is the most frequently reported cause of contamination. Our main goal is to protect public waters.
What Do I Need To Do?
The first step to installing a new onsite system is applying for a site evaluation. During the site evaluation, a County Wastewater Specialist will examine the soil profile in test pits dug into the ground and a variety of other factors regarding your property, including parcel size, slope, and location of adjacent water bodies and wells. This information allows Klamath County staff to determine if the site is suitable for an onsite system and if so, what type and an approval area. The approved site evaluation report states the minimum onsite system necessary to meet DEQ rules, serve the proposed use, and protect public health and the environment.
Are you having issues with your current septic system? Not sure if your project requires onsite system review or alterations? Klamath County Septic/Onsite Division can address your specific questions; call 541-883-5121, option #6, for more information.