We help you keep it clean.
Healthy septic systems are good for your family, your wallet and the environment. With just a few simple steps, you can protect your septic—and avoid costly repairs. Your groundwater and Puget Sound lakes, rivers, and beaches benefit, too!
What is a septic system?
Think of them like a sewage treatment plant, only much smaller. They store, treat and dispose of the things you flush or send down drains. There are many different types of systems. Some are simple, using only a tank and a drainfield. Others are more complex, requiring pumps, filters, or specially designed materials.
Learn more about your septic system type with our 3D models.
A maintained septic system keeps you and the environment healthy and helps:
- Reduce the risk of people getting sick from untreated sewage.
- Reduce the risk of contaminating groundwater and surface water.
- Save you money and extend the life of your system.
Our role is to:
- Work with septic system professionals to approve system design, location and installation.
- Educate property owners to make sure their septic system gets proper maintenance.
What are the regulations?
- Environmental Health Code, Chapter 1, General Provisions
- Environmental Health Code, Chapter 2, On-Site Sewage
- Environmental Health Code, Chapter 3, Water Regulation
- Appeals Process of Orders and Decisions of the Health Officer
Resources
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- Septic Systems 101 Webinar.
- Designers and Engineers—List of designers and engineers licensed to work in Pierce County.
- Installation Firms—List of firms certified to work in Pierce County.
- 2026 Fee Schedule—On-site sewage, well and water resources fee schedule.
- File a complaint about a Pierce County Septic Service Company or individual.
- Septic System Service Companies—List of companies certified to work in Pierce County.
Have questions? We have answers!
Contact us at ehsepticsystems@tpchd.org or (253) 649-1925.