The Whatcom County health department has scheduled several classes that will certify most homeowners to complete evaluations of their own septic systems.


The homeowner training classes currently consist of a four-hour classroom presentation, which includes information how septic systems operate and covers information required to adequately report the functioning status of an on-site sewage system (OSS).  Information on class dates, times and locations can be found at www.whatcomcounty.us/health/index.jsp.

Look for the “OSS operation and maintenance homeowner training” link under hot topics and news.  Homeowners who do not have access to the internet can call 676-6724 to register for a class.

As of April 2, 2007, homeowners are required to have an operation and maintenance evaluation of their on-site sewage system once every three years for conventional gravity systems and annually for all other alternative systems. 

By evaluating your system on a routine basis, you can identify and correct any issues that if not addressed, may lead to complete system failure. For more information, call Tammy at 360/421-6838.