Onsite Sewage Disposal Program
For Septic History
Research online records - Scanned documents. Not all records are available, we are continually working to increase the number of records available.
Background
Marion County Building Inspection issues all septic system permits within Marion County. Building Inspection is a contract agent of the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). Therefore, septic permits are issued under DEQ's
Onsite Sewage Disposal rules. The only exceptions are properties served by a community sewer system and systems reserved by DEQ, under Water Pollution Control Facilities (WPCF) rules.
The onsite sewage disposal program determines sewage treatment and disposal feasibility for homes not served by a community sewer system. Septic drainfields must be properly designed and installed to:
Improper sewage disposal can cause many diseases in humans. Please see our
Septic System Basics brochure for additional information.
What Is The Permitting Process?
There are two steps involved. Step 1 is a Site Evaluation. A Site Evaluation must be done to determine which type and size of system is suitable for your property and circumstances. Once a completed Site Evaluation application is received, an Onsite Wastewater Specialist will evaluate the property. Please allow 2-3 weeks for this part of the process. You will receive a Site Evaluation Report specifying the type and size of septic system required and any special instructions.
After you receive a favorable Site Evaluation, Step 2 is submitting an Onsite Sewage Disposal Application for the appropriate permit. This includes submitting additional information depending on the type of system. A permit is required before installing the system. After submitting a complete application, the documents will be reviewed. If approved, a Construction-Installation Permit will be issued. When issued, the property owner or DEQ-licensed septic installer may begin installation according to the permit specifications. After the system is inspected, and receives final approval, a Certificate of Satisfactory Completion will be issued and you may begin using the system.
Please note each step in this process has a separate application and fees, depending on the type of system. The applications, forms and additional information are listed below. To prevent delay, fully complete the application and include any additional documentation as required.
Information and Forms
Each link listed below will take you to a page with the forms and information needed for that specific activity.
What Type of Septic Application Do You Need?
Question and answer information sheet to help you determine which type of septic application is needed.
Application for Onsite Wastewater Treatment System New Fees 8/1/2024
General application form, including permit fees.
Site Evaluation Permit Packet:
Evaluates a specific property for sewage disposal feasibility. This page includes site evaluation to system installation information, instructions, permit application, fee information, site plan, etc.
Property Line Adjustment Information Packet:
Applicants considering moving a property line will need:
An Existing System Evaluation for the Lot getting smaller
A Record Review for the Lot getting Larger
Partitioning Information Packet:
Applicants considering dividing their property must also obtain a review of the existing system if there is an existing homesite. This page includes forms for the site evaluation, system installation information, instructions, permit application, fee information, site plan, etc.
Construction/Installation Permit Packet:
To allow the installation of a new septic system. Requires an approved Site Evaluation. This page includes information, instructions and permit application form.
Authorization To Use Existing System Packet:
To allow reconnection to an existing septic system. This page includes information, instructions and permit application form.
Septic Authorization Renewal for Hardships
This process is required every 5-years by the Department of Environmental Quality to maintain the health and safety of your septic system. This page includes information, instructions and permit renewal process.
Septic Repair or Alteration Permit Packet:
To allow repair to an existing, failing septic system or alteration of an existing septic system. This page includes information, instructions and permit application form.
Alternative Treatment Technology (ATT) Installation Packet:
This page includes instructions, permit application, fee information, site plan, etc.
Sand Filter Installation Permit Packet:
Installation of a new sand filter septic system. Requires an approved Site Evaluation. This page includes information, instructions and permit application form.
Holding Tank Installation Permit Packet:
This page includes instructions, permit application, fee information, site plan, etc.
Record Review Packet:
To evaluate the impact a proposed accessory structure might have on an existing septic system. This page includes information, instructions and permit application form.
Recirculating Gravel Filter (RGF) Installation Permit Packet:
This page includes instructions, permit application, fee information, site plan, etc.
Complaint Form:
Form needed to submit complaints regarding failing septic systems.
Septic Tank Abandonment Form
Department of Environmental Quality Onsite Program
For additional information on a variety of topics relating to sewage disposal, check out the following links:
Other Useful Links
National Small Flows Clearinghouse
Contains information on septic systems, maintenance, wastewater, etc.
Pipeline Magazine
Publication with news & information related to onsite septic systems.
EPA Septic Smart:
https://www.epa.gov/septic
