On-site sewage and wells
We regulate and enforce installation of septic systems and wells. View applicable county and state regulations that apply to on-site sewage and wells.
Local Regulations
State Code
- Chapter 246-272A WAC—On-Site Sewage Systems.
- Chapter 173-160 WAC—Minimum Standards for Construction and Maintenance of Wells.
- Septic and Sewage Publications—Washington State Department of Health.
- List of Registered Sewage Tanks—Washington State Department of Health.
On-Site Sewage Procedures
| Procedure or guidance document | Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Additional Fee Procedure | Effective July 2024 | Outlines when and what additional fees we require. |
| Critical Area Compliance | Revised October 2026 | Updated contact information for critical area sign-off. |
| Density for Accessory Dwelling Unit Guidance | Revised August 2018 | Updated density requirements for lots connected public water. |
| Development Activities for Existing Septic Systems | Revised August 2024 | Updated O&M inspection requirements. |
| Extended Maintenance and Minor Repairs (EMMR) Reportable Activities | Effective March 2025 | Outlines approved EMMR activities that do not require a permit or repair application. |
| Guidance for Unpermitted Septic Connections | Effective June 2024 | Describes steps you must take for unpermitted septic connects to obtain an RSS. |
| High Winter Water Table Review | Revised December 2022 | Updated contact info and fee requirements. |
| Mechanical Remediation Method Guidance | Revised June 2025 | Describes the conditions when we will allow the application of a mechanical remediation method. |
| Non-Concrete Tank Requirements | Effective January 2024 | Outlines requirements and procedures for non-concrete tanks in areas with a high-water table. |
| One Compartment Septic Tank | Revised December 2024 | Updated to clarify situations where policy applies. |
| Operation and Maintenance (O&M) Firm Technician-Only Guidance | Effective November 2024 | Outlines roles and responsibilities of certified O&M technicians. |
| Record Drawing Guidance | Revised August 2024 | Updated to clarify requirements for subsurface drip record drawings. |
| Record of Existing Septic System Locate | Effective March 2025 | Septic system locate site plan for existing systems without records. |
| Remediation Procedure | Effective July 2026 | Use this guidance document to assist you when you perform a remediation. |
| RSS Deficiencies with Resolutions | Revised April 2023 | Updated to meet remodel guidance. |
| Substandard Agreement Procedure | Effective June 2026 | Use these instructions to complete and submit a recorded agreement. |
| Tank Repair or Replacement Requirements | Revised October 2025 | Updated to meet Washington Administrative Code (WAC) requirements. |
Individual Well Procedures
- Guidance to use an Existing Well for Irrigation
- Individual Well Applications and Permit Life
- Restrictive Covenant Variance Process
Waivers
Resources
- Area Map.
- Dept. of Ecology Well Report Search.
- 2026 Fee Schedule—On-site sewage, well and water resources fee schedule.
- OSS Management Plan.
- Methamphetamine Contaminated Properties.
- Pierce County Assessor-Treasurer.
- Pierce County Auditor.
- Pierce County Development Center.
- Plat/land division checklist and guide.
- RSS Deficiencies with Resolutions.
- Record Drawing/As-Built Look Up.
- Surfacing Sewage Letter.
- Water Quality Map/Salt Water Intrusion.
Questions?
You can email us or call (253) 649-1925.