Happy Spring from the King County On-site Sewage System (OSS) Program team!
Last month, the King County Board of Health voted to adopt the revised septic codes. Next, the new codes will go into effect on April 1, 2025.
In this month’s newsletter, we'll dive deeper into what the codes mean for septic system owners and point to resources so you can learn more.
We also have an exciting announcement about our newsletter! Moving forward, we will shift our focus from the code revision process to everyday education for septic system maintenance and updates from our program – brought to you in three months as the Septic Matters newsletter. Read on to learn more!
As always, please don't hesitate to reach out if you have questions or comments.
Si tiene alguna pregunta, comuníquese con nosotros a la siguiente dirección de correo electrónico mejackson@kingcounty.gov o llame al 206.263.0547.
The newly updated OSS codes aim to make it easier and cheaper to maintain, repair, and replace septic systems, as well as protect people’s health and the environment. Read on to learn about the key impacts on maintenance, construction, and oversight.
Maintenance of existing systems:
For owners of existing systems, it will get easier to complete small fixes to prevent bigger repairs or failures.
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If you have a proprietary system (for example, , you need to get an inspection less often (now it’s once per year instead of once every 6 months).
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When you are selling your property, the inspection for property sale is valid for 1 year instead of just 6 months.
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When you work with a service provider, the providers must screw down tank access lids so kids or pets don't fall in, causing serious accidents.
Construction and design of new and replacement systems:
Property owners and industry professionals will have more options for addressing failures.
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No permit is needed for minor repairs (ex. fixing a cracked pipe, replacing a pump).
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If your property is in an urban area and your septic system fails, you may have the option of applying to install a non-conforming septic system instead of connecting to sewer.
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There is no fee for service providers to report to us if they see sewage on the ground or backing up in a house, and they need to report the failure within 5 days instead of within 30 days.
It will be easier to install a new septic system or submit a building application for an addition or expansion.
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For accessory dwelling units (ADU), you can install a cheaper type of system with smaller pressured distribution drainfield areas.
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For new subdivision development, the minimum lot size is increased by 500-1,000 square feet.
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The codes also clarify some language and requirements (for example, the definition of a “bedroom”).
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Oversight of the Septic Industry:
We’re making sure that service providers are following a Code of Performance and Ethics to provide you a high quality of service. If you are concerned that your service provider may not be getting necessary permits, is requiring you to make unnecessary changes, or is charging for things that were not completed, you can call our office, and we will investigate it.
The adopted codes will go into effect on April 1, 2025.
We understand that you probably have questions about what these code changes mean for you. We’re here to help!
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Updated webpage: Our OSS code webpage is the one-stop shop to get information about the codes, including links to the new codes and resources to explain what the changes mean.
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Fact sheet: See our fact sheet for an overview of what the changes mean for people with septic systems in King County. We outline the key changes that impact maintenance, construction, and oversight of the septic industry.
Starting in June, the focus of this newsletter will shift from the code revision process to guidance and tips for people with septic systems and updates from the OSS Program Team. And we’re using the same subscription list, so you don’t need to sign up for anything new to keep getting our updates.
Septic Matters will be brought to you every 3 months and will answer some of the most commonly-asked questions about septic systems to help property owners learn more about septic system maintenance. We’ll cover common topics and provide seasonal maintenance tips like:
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What to consider when you are selling or buying a property with a septic system .
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How to get ready for power outages and recover your septic system's function.
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How to protect your septic system when you’re hosting guests at your property.
We’d love to hear what questions you want answered in Septic Matters! If you have ideas for topics, please email Eunbi Lee at eulee@kingcounty.gov.
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You can read previous OSS Code Revision newsletters by using the links below:
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January 2024: Newsletter introduction, OSS 101, and what to know about the OSS code revision process.
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February 2024: Lifecycle of an OSS, and local OSS codes.
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March 2024: Summary of changes to state OSS codes.
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April 2024: Process for updating local OSS codes.
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May 2024: Public input opportunities, and details about the land use & development code topic area.
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June 2024: Upcoming public meetings, details about the design specifications and repairs & remodeling code topic areas, and financial assistance information.
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July 2024: in-person public meeting opportunities and details about the certifications & oversight and operations & maintenance code topic areas.
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August 2024: Last chance to take our survey and come to a meeting!
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September 2024: Draft language for code changes – share your feedback!
- October 2024: Code revision process & rebate for septic maintenance.
- November 2024: Updated timeline for OSS code revisions.
- December 2024: Power outage guidance, next steps for code updates, and OSS fees.
- January 2025: Code revision process, sewer connections in King County, and securing tank lids.
- February 2025: Resources to understand the code changes and FAQs
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