On-site Sewage Disposal Program

Introduction:

The on-site septic program is responsible for the all residential on-site septic systems in the County that generate less than 2,500 gallons of waste a day.  The following are the guidelines for applying for site evaluations, authorizations, repair and construction permits.

Note: A number of on-site forms are available for download at the base of this page.

Oregon Administrative Rules & Fees:

• DEQ On-site Rules
• National Small Flows Clearinghouse
• 2010-2011 On-Site Fees - Download

On-Site Septic Procedures:

Note:  All requests for records, evaluations and permits will need the legal description for the lot or property-township, range, section and tax lot.  Also, for subdivisions, block and lot numbers will be needed.  These can be obtained from the assessor’s office, title title or tax record.

Site evaluations are required on any lot or property to be developed to indicate that the property will have an acceptable on-site septic system.  The procedures and application can be obtained from the EH office.

Permits: ( OAR 340 Division 71 and 73 see http://arcweb.sos.state.or.us/).

1. Applications and information for all the permits issued from the EH office can be obtained at 300 NE 3^rd St.
2. Prior to any permit being issued for an on-site septic permit, the Crook County Planning Department must approve the Land Use Compatibility application. This form tells the on-site program that the applicant/land meet all zoning requirements and can receive an on-site septic construction permit.  Some zoning requirements may require a Conditional Use Permit or a Site Plan Review.  Check with the Planning Department as soon as you think you want to develop a piece of property.
3. An Authorization Permit is required if you want to connect a medical hardship dwelling to an existing on-site septic system.  Approval from the Planning Department prior to the on-site program accepting your application is required.  If the hardship authorization is approved by the on-site program, it is good for 5 years or until the hardship ends-whichever comes first.  The permit (fee required) may be renewed if needed.  The dwelling must be disconnected from the on-site system and be removed from the lot 30 days after cessation of the hardship need.
4. It is highly recommended that any lot owner developing a lot for a new dwelling, contact the on-site program manager and go over the layout of the approved drain field area, layout of the proposed dwelling and all setbacks to assure that everything the lot owner has planned for the lot will fit. 

Note:  Site evaluations for septic system approval during the dry periods will be conducted within 14 working days. Soil evaluations during the wet/winter months may take as long as a month due to the inability to do soil texture of the frozen or icy soil, or if the surrounding ground features are covered by snow.  Permits can be issued within 2-3 days if all the paperwork is turned in as required on the application form and the Land Use Form has been signed by the Planning Department.  Capping fill drain fields may not be allowed to be installed in Oregon during October 1 to June 1 without prior approval.  The Reason is that the wet soils become compacted during installation and can cause the drain field to fail within a short time of installation.