Household Sewage Systems

Septic Services

The Highland County Health Department’s Environmental Health Division oversees all aspects of household sewage treatment systems, including installations, repairs, and sewage-related concerns. Our team of Environmental Health Specialists and Environmental Health Specialists in Training stays current on the latest sewage treatment technologies to ensure safe and effective wastewater management throughout the county.

We issue permits and conduct inspections for all new, replacement, and altered household sewage treatment systems. Site review and permit fees are non-refundable.

Permits for Sewage Treatment Systems

If you are building a new home without access to public sewer, or if your existing system is failing or not functioning properly, you must obtain approval from the health department before installation, alteration, or replacement.

Steps for New Construction (Permit to Install)

1. Soil Evaluation
   Contact a certified soil evaluator to assess the property in accordance with Ohio Administrative Code (OAC) 3701-29-07.

2. System Design
   The Highland County Health Department can design a basic leaching system. Other systems require a registered sewage system designer to develop a system plan for the home.

3. Obtain Property Address
   Contact the appropriate county office if an address has not yet been assigned.

4. Submit Application
   Provide the following to the health department:

   • Completed Sewage System Design and Site Review Application

   • Payment

   • Sewage system design

   • Soil evaluation report

   • Property address documentation

   • Home/building plans

5. Site Review
   Health department staff will visit the property to verify soils, layout, and compliance. The site must be clearly staked to show the location of structures such as the home, driveway, system, and any additional features.

6. Permit Issuance
   Once approved, a Permit to Install can be purchased.

Steps for System Failure (Alteration or Replacement)

1. Schedule an Inspection
   Contact the health department if your system is failing or showing signs of malfunction.

2. Soil Evaluation (if needed)
   Additional soil testing may be required depending on the scope of repairs.

3. System Design
   Submit a design outlining proposed repairs or replacement in accordance with OAC 3701-29-10.

4. Submit Application
   Include application, payment, design plans, and soil reports (if applicable).

5. Permit Issuance
   Once approved, a Permit to Alter or Replace can be purchased.

Real Estate Sewage System Evaluations

If you are purchasing a home in Highland County, the health department can conduct an inspection of the household sewage treatment system. This helps identify any issues before closing.

• Independent inspectors must be registered with the health department.

• Contact our office for a list of registered service providers or for permit history on a property.

Sewage System Contractors

All sewage system installers, septage haulers, and service providers must:

• Maintain a valid statewide bond and liability insurance

• Pass the state contractor exam

• Complete at least 6 hours of continuing education annually

• Obtain manufacturer certification for system components

• Register with each local health district where they operate

Please contact the Highland County Health Department for guidance on contractor registration or septic system services.