Inspect your own sewage systems


January 20, 2012 · 3:23 PM

 

San Juan County Health and Community Services has announced the schedule for its on-site sewage system operation and maintenance workshops for homeowners.

During the past three years more than 2,600 homeowners have attended the free workshops and been certified to inspect their septic systems.

Workshops are scheduled for Lopez, Orcas and San Juan Island through September of this year (class schedule online at: http://www.sanjuanco.com/health/ehswaste.aspx or by calling 378-4474).

The workshops provide an opportunity for homeowners to earn certification to complete inspections of their septic systems and avoid the expense of hiring an outside inspector.

The classes also discuss how septic systems function, and how they can be maintained to extend the longevity of the system, reduce expenses and protect the environment.

Homeowners in San Juan County have been required since 2007 to have their septic systems inspected on a regular basis. Gravity systems that are not in designated sensitive areas must be inspected every three years.

All other systems, including gravity systems in sensitive areas, require annual inspections.

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