The Highland County Health Department Household Sewage Treatment Program oversees septic system installations, system repairs, sewage complaints, and other areas pertaining to sewage treatment and disposal of household sewage. All system inspectors are Registered Sanitarians in the State of Ohio, and regularly attend trainings and conferences to remain current with the new technologies and science associated with sewage treatment and disposal.

Before a home sewage system can be installed in Highland County, the proposed home area and soil composition must be surveyed. Next, septic system plans are developed by the health department’s sanitarians. When the site and drawings are approved, and the installation permit issued, the contractor can begin installation. The health department then acts as a consultant for any problems, and inspects the system before it can be buried and used. The complete permit and installation process involves several fees, which on the fee schedule. The character of your site and work will determine which fees are applicable. Please contact the health department for more information concerning these fees.

  2023-2024 Fee Schedule: CLICK HERE

Household Sewage Treatment Program Documents

  • Application for Site Review (HSTS, SFOSTS, & GWRS) per lot (for proposed new systems, repairs/replacements of existing systems, lot splits, major and minor sub divisions). Revised 11/14/2023 To download: CLICK HERE

  • Application to Request an Operation and Maintenance inspection of an Existing Sewage Treatment System . To download: CLICK HERE

  • Application for Homeowner’s inspection request in regards to a failing septic system. To download: CLICK HERE

  • Contractor Registration information:

    • 2024 Application to Register as Sewage Treatment System Installer, Hauler and/or Service Provider. To download: CLICK HERE

      2024 Renewal Application Cover Letter: To download: CLICK HERE

    • Highland County Sewage Treatment System Installation Manual: To download: CLICK HERE

    • Ohio Department of Health’s Contractor Registration fact sheet: To download: CLICK HERE

    • Application for Land Application of Sewage in Highland County - contact the Highland County Health Dept. at 937-393-1941

    • Ohio Department of Health’s website contains additional information and forms: To be directed to website: CLICK HERE

  • 2024 Contractor List CLICK HERE

  • 2023 Contractor List CLICK HERE

  • Soil Evaluators To view current list visit Ohio Department of Health’s “ Soils, Designs, and Drainage” website and click on “Soil Evaluators tab”. Next click on “Soil Scientist Meeting the Criteria Established under Rule OAC 3701-29-07 to perform soil work in Ohio”. To be directed to website: CLICK HERE

  • WPCLF Grant applications for failing septic system assistance - Contact the office at 937-393-1941 to request an application or it can be downloaded here. Grant cycle is 2023 for current calendar year. (2024) To download: CLICK HERE

  • Variance requests - provide a letter of request with explanation of why a variance is being requested or you may fill out and submit the following form once completed: To download: CLICK HERE.

 Septic system maintenance fact sheets for various system types and components.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I install septic systems in Highland County?

Response: Septic system installers must register with the health department and provide proof of surety bond. Home owners can install their own systems after consultation with the health department.

 Can I install my own system?

Response: Yes, after consultation with the health department. The Highland County Health Department is not liable for improper installation or system malfunction.

 Is my area of land large enough to put a system on?

Response: The health department requires a site evaluation to be performed prior to any system installation. Lot size is important, but soil composition, replacement area, and other considerations play a part in system site selection and approval.

 How long does a system take to install?

Response: It varies widely, depending on the contractor, size/type of system, and number of workers. One to two days is average.

 Can you recommend an installer?

Response: The health department cannot recommend an installer, but we do have a list of installers that are registered within the county.

 If my home site requires an alternative system, can you design it?

Response: Sometimes. Usually, however, an engineer or qualified designer is required.

 Can a septic system be installed year round?

Response: No. Soil conditions must be dry in order to insure the proper operation of the leaching trenches. Installation is particularly difficult in spring, when large amounts of rain are common.

 Does water from a clothes washer or sink need to go into a sewage disposal system?

Response: Yes.

 How long will my septic system last?

Response: Depends widely on use and maintenance. A properly used and maintained septic system could conceivably last indefinitely.

 What do I do if I think my system is failing?

Response: Call the health department for evaluation and advice.