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Common Onsite Regulations

Regulations vary from state to state and sometimes locally, by county, district, township, or community. Local jurisdictions may have the option of simply adopting their state laws or developing their own, as long as they comply with minimum state requirements. Therefore, local onsite laws are sometimes more restrictive than state laws. Some communities may restrict certain system types or designs allowed by the state if they require extra maintenance or expertise not locally available. Although onsite system regulations vary depending on where you live, it helps to be aware of some common requirements and how they may effect you. Health Departments - Friends not Foes

Some regulations require mandatory inspections of existing onsite systems within a given time before property is sold or transferred. Realty Septic Inspections / Health Departments - Friends not Foes

State or local regulations often indicate specific professional qualifications, such as education, certification, or licenses, that individuals must have to perform onsite system tasks. For example, regulations commonly require that site evaluations be performed by local health officials, registered sanitarians, engineers, or soil scientists. However, a trained and licensed septic contractor may work along with the designated officer, as an advocate for the homeowner, to achieve the best solution for the existing situation. Site Evaluations & Building Permits / General Septic Problems

Homeowners should be aware, however, that choosing someone with the appropriate legal qualifications doesn’t ensure that they are the best person for the job. It is important to compare estimates and to find someone who has proven experience with onsite systems and who is willing to work with local health officials. Your local or state health agency may be able to offer some guidance. About Us

Proper operation and maintenance of onsite systems are essential to avoiding system failures. For certain types of onsite system with electrical or mechanical components, maintenance is often regulated through operating permits. These permits need to be renewed periodically with maintenance as a condition of renewal. In some cases, system maintenance can be performed by the homeowner who has attended and completed the proper training classes for the type of system installed. However, inspections of the system usually must be performed by health officials or other qualified professionals. This is the case in systems such as the Aeration Sewage Treatment Units used for Spray or Direct Discharge which carry a facility number registered with the state or local health department. These systems, in the State of Kentucky, are only approved and permitted by the state and require a licensed certified Wastewater Operator to service these systems on a regular schedule. Sewage Protection Program / New Gribbins Whirlair Aeration Treatment Unit

Permits are required in most areas for any new construction and should be obtained for any repair or alteration to the existing wastewater system. These permits are usually attain through the local or state health agency.

Health Department - Friends not Foes | Site Evaluations & Building Permits | General Septic Problems | Installation, Repair & Service Maintenance

Barrow Company, Inc.
PO Box 468 2221 North Highway 53
Lagrange, KY 40031 Phone 502-222-9992 Fax 502-222-0556

 


Source of information in part provided: National Small Flows Clearinghouse, West Virginia University 800-624-8301

 


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