On-Site Wastewater Treatment Systems

About OWTS

Unlike the cesspools on grandpa's farm, the modern on-site wastewater treatment system, or OWTS, is an environmentally sound method of wastewater disposal in areas where public sewers are not available. These are also referred to as septic systems. Since many homeowners have little or no experience with OWTS, these pages will provide information to help you understand how your OWTS functions and ways you can help improve its operation.

Basic OWTS Rules

• See the 2018 Jefferson County OWTS regulations
• Jefferson County requires permitting for use, operation and maintenance of onsite wastewater treatment systems. Find the different forms and permits required for OWTS systems.
• Do not dispose of items that will destroy the natural digestion processes in your OWTS. 
• Do not overload the system with excessive water.
• Have the tank regularly inspected and pumped.

If you adhere to these few simple rules, your OWTS will prove to be a safe and economical on-site method for disposing of your rural wastewater. 

Request an OWTS Inspection (For Active Permits Only) 

To submit a request for an inspection, please fill out the below form. Inspections are conducted Monday-Thursday between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.. Requests that are submitted prior to 3:00 p.m. will go on the schedule for the next business day.

Please have your site ready for inspection: Make sure the work to be inspected is complete, no animals are loose on the property, address is clearly posted and gates are either open or a gate code has been provided in the request.

Please note: Requests for specific times cannot be guaranteed as the inspector’s route is determined by the location of inspections requested for that day.

• To request an a OWTS Inspection submit this form.