PRESS RELEASE

October 13, 2023

Contact

Britt Pfaff Dunton

[email protected]

360-416-1500

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Skagit County Public Health Offers Financial Assistance for Septic System Inspection and Maintenance

Skagit County Public Health is offering up to $200 in rebates for septic system inspection, pumping or riser installation to qualifying residents (one per household). A grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) allows public health to implement a rebate program for residents who pay a certified septic system provider to inspect, pump, or install riser to raise tank lids to the surface.

All residents of Skagit County whose homes or businesses are served by a septic system require annual inspections, unless the system is conventional gravity (three-year inspection requirement), per Skagit County Code (SCC) 12.05.160 and Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 246-272A-270.

Properly functioning septic systems protect public health and water quality by assuring that household sewage is adequately treated before returning to the environment. Regular and consistent septic system inspections can save property owners money in the long run by identifying minor problems that may be fixed immediately. Unmaintained septic systems are more likely to develop major issues that require costly repair or replacement. Improperly maintained septic systems can also lead to failures that pose risks to the public and our environment.

Since 2011, Skagit County Public Health has periodically offered rebates to homeowners for inspections, pumping, and riser installation, easing the financial burden of paying a professional to perform routine inspections. To be eligible for septic system rebates, you must meet the following requirements:

• Own a residence in Skagit County.
• Complete the free Septics 101 class and quiz available online.
• Have an inspection, pumping, and/or rise installation done by a Skagit County certified operations and maintenance provider on or after January 1, 2023. Note this is an expansion of the eligible timeframe.
• Pay for the services. Keep your receipt or paid invoice.
• Complete an application form (fillable pdf or online) and submit with documentation to Skagit County Public Health.

Rebate applications will be accepted until December 15, 2023, or until grant funding is depleted.

Skagit County Public Health also offers assistance for septic system inspection to qualifying low-income residents who need a septic system inspection and demonstrate financial need (such as living on a fixed income and being eligible for property tax exemption). This program, funded by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), eases the financial burden of meeting state inspection requirements, and protects public health. If you think you might be eligible, please contact Skagit County Public Health before you schedule your inspection. 

For more information about septic system rebates, please visit our website at www.skagitcounty.net/Departments/HealthEnvironmental/onsitesewer.htm or contact us at [email protected] or (360) 416-1500.

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