Subsurface Sewage Treatment Systems (SSTS)

Apply for a Permit
Inspections
Operating Permits
Forms & Resources

A septic permit is required in Washington County when:

Installing new septic tanks and/or soil treatment areas
All repair and modification of existing systems and components.
Changes in the facility served by the system may trigger a permit. Contact Public Health at 651-430-6655 or via email.

Complete a septic application using the online permitting portal. (Not compatible with Internet Explore)

How to guide applying for a septic permit using the online permitting portal.
Or apply with a Paper Application
Fee schedule

Financial Assistance for Your Septic System

Washington County low interest loan program guidance and application procedure.
Washington County low income fix up grants guidance and application procedure.
Application for low interest loan or low income fix up grant.

SSTS Records and Risk Assessment Project

In 2017, the county received a Clean Water Fund grant to conduct a records catalog and risk assessment. The CWF grant is for $100,000, with a 25% match, and it ends December 2019. The grant workplan includes: 1) collection and digitation of remaining paper records, including those from cities, 2) conducting a risk assessment countywide, using available data. The risk assessment will be a tool for county and local partners for prioritizing resources and assisting county and local officials with future planning.