Understanding Septic System Design Requirements in King and Snohomish Counties

When it comes to septic system design requirements in King and Snohomish Counties, local regulations, permits, and environmental factors play a significant role. Navigating these requirements is crucial, whether you’re repairing a failed system, constructing a new property, or selling your home. Here, we break down the key considerations for septic system design in these counties.

Local Regulations and Permits

Both King and Snohomish Counties have strict guidelines for on-site septic system (OSS) installations to protect public health and the environment. Understanding these guidelines is the first step in ensuring a successful septic system design. Here are some essential factors:

1. Health Department Permits: In both counties, permits are issued by the local health departments. The process involves soil testing, site evaluations, and detailed design plans to meet county-specific standards. Learn more about soil log testing on our Feasibility & Soil Log Testing blog post.
2. Site and Soil Feasibility: Proper soil and site evaluation are critical. Factors like soil type, depth, and drainage capacity determine the type of septic system that can be installed. We offer soil log testing services as part of our feasibility studies in areas like Woodinville; you can read more in our Woodinville Feasibility & Soil Log blog.
3. Critical Area Designation (CAD): If your property falls within a critical area (wetlands, steep slopes, etc.), obtaining a CAD is a crucial step before designing the septic system. Understanding these requirements helps ensure compliance with environmental protections.
4. System Type Selection: Depending on the soil composition and property layout, the county may require specific system types. For example, some areas with poor soil conditions might require advanced systems like OSCAR systems or sand-lined drip irrigation systems. Discover more about OSCAR system installations and sand-lined drip irrigation on our blog.
5. Septic Repairs: If your current system has failed, repair designs must adhere to county standards. Our company specializes in timely and cost-effective repairs. Check out our article on what to do when facing a failed septic system for more information.

Factors Affecting Septic System Design

1. Property Size and Layout: In King and Snohomish Counties, property size can limit the types of systems that can be installed. Properties with limited space may require alternative systems, such as the NUWater BNR600 system.
2. Local Climate: The wet climate in these counties can affect soil conditions, requiring careful assessment during the design process. Our team considers these factors when creating custom solutions tailored to the region’s unique needs.
3. Turnaround Time: We pride ourselves on our fast turnaround times—typically, a week for the site visit and another week to prepare and submit the design to the County Health Department. Read more about our recent projects, like the OSCAR XO2 system installation in Ravensdale.

Our Services in King and Snohomish Counties

For over 30 years, we’ve been providing a variety of septic design, repair, and feasibility services in King County and Snohomish County. From feasibility studies to designing advanced systems like OSCAR systems and NUWater systems, our team ensures compliance with local regulations while offering cost-effective solutions.

If you’re in need of septic system design or repairs, don’t hesitate to reach out. For emergency repairs, text 911 to 425-248-1140, and we’ll get back to you within 24 hours.