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Benton County Environmental Health –
Septic Sewage Permits

Septic Sewage Permits

Download an on-site septic application for Benton County: Current Septic Application (PDF)

We also have a list of local licensed installers who have provided us with their contact information. Please note, we do not recommend or endorse any one on the list.

Common Questions about the Construction Season

Obtain Site Approval and an Installation Permit for New Lot Developments

Site Approval – Before you can begin building your home, an approved area for both an initial and a replacement septic system will need to be identified on your parcel. The site approval will detail the type of system required for your parcel, its location, known setbacks to the system, and requirements that you will have to meet before a permit can be issued to install the system.

When you fill out your on-site sewage disposal system application packet, make sure that you fill out all information required for a site feasibility study. An incomplete application will delay the process.

Line Up an Installer – If you haven't done so already, we recommend that you secure the services of a licensed septic system installer. The sooner you start working with him or her, the better. Your plans may be delayed if you wait until the last minute. A list of local licensed installers and consultants is included with the application packet.

Installation Permit – When you are ready to begin installation of the system, you must first apply for an installation permit. You'll need to use an additional application packet. The installation permit must be issued prior to beginning construction of the system. The permit is specific for your parcel and your building proposal.

Certificate of Satisfactory Completion – This certificate will be issued only after all of the permit requirements have been met. This is your OK to start using your system.

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Common Questions

• How long will the process take? It can take anywhere from two to four weeks for you to obtain your site approval. This depends mainly on the time of year. During the summer months when there is a lot of building activity, the process will take the longest.

• How long is the site approval good for? The site approval is good for as long as there are no modifications to the site.

• How long is the installation permit good for? One year. The permit can be renewed or reinstated at a lesser fee.

• What if I sell my property? A site approval goes with the property. A permit may be transferable to a subsequent property owner under certain circumstances.

• Can I install the system myself? Yes, but Environmental Health does not recommend it unless you have prior experience with this type of construction. Once you have begun excavating in the approved area, the system must be installed correctly. Having to correct mistakes may cost you more in the long run than paying for a professional installer. There may not be another approvable area on your parcel.

• Are all professional installers required to be licensed? Yes. The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality sets the standards for licensing installation contractors. This is not the same as a general contractor’s license. Unless you are doing the work yourself, only licensed installers may do the work for you. Contact Environmental Health if you have questions about whether or not a contractor is licensed for septic system installations.

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Process Check List

1. Site feasibility application packet obtained.
2. Installer lined up.
3. Site feasibility application completed and returned to Benton County Development Department.
4. Test holes dug.
5. Environmental Health notified that test holes are ready.
6. In winter months, appointment made with Environmental Health to look at test holes.
7. Site approval issued by Environmental Health.
8. Permit application packet obtained.
9. Permit application completed and returned.
10. Installation permit issued by Environmental Health.
11. Installer’s packet given to installer.
12. System installed.
13. Pre-cover inspection by Environmental Health completed.
14. System covered and soil graded.
15. Certificate of satisfactory completion issued by Environmental Health office.

You may now flush the toilet.

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