Onsite/Septic

What is an Onsite or Septic System?

"A septic system is the most common method of sewage treatment for homes and businesses that are not connected to an area wide sewage system. In its basic form, a septic system consists of a septic tank, where solids settle and decompose, and a drainfield where liquid discharged from the tank is treated by bacteria in the soil. More complex septic systems are installed in areas with high groundwater and/or poor soils." (Department of Environmental Quality : About Septic Systems : Residential Resources : State of Oregon. (n.d.). https://www.oregon.gov/deq/Residential/Pages/Onsite-about.aspx)

When are they used? Why are they required in Deschutes County?

In areas where public sewer is not available, homeowners must install onsite wastewater treatment systems (onsite or septic systems) for treating residential or commercial wastewater. All plumbing fixtures such as toilets, sinks, bathtubs, showers, washing machines, dishwashers, or anything else that generates human wastewater must be connected to an approved sewage system.

Are there certain Onsite or Septic System's that I am allowed to use?

Onsite wastewater treatment systems must be designed according to Deschutes County standards and DEQ rules, and once the permit is issued must be inspected and approved by an Onsite Wastewater Specialist. Onsite systems are different from municipal sewers because they have a limited life expectancy, which can be drastically reduced if the system is improperly used or not maintained. Please see the Onsite System Maintenance page for more information about properly maintaining your onsite system.

Health and Environmental Impacts

The safe disposal and treatment of sewage is essential for preventing the spread of disease and contaminating groundwater with pollutants. 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. Nitrates and contaminants of emerging concern (CECs), such as pharmaceuticals and personal care products, are examples of pollutants that can contaminant groundwater if sewage is not properly treated.  Inadequately treated sewage from failing septic systems is the most frequently reported cause of groundwater contamination.

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