County health staff review septic permit schedule; commissioners consider lengthening permit term from five to 10 years

Williams County health department staff told commissioners the county currently requires septic system pumping and permit review every five years, but state law allows permits to extend up to 10 years. Commissioners asked staff to explore aligning closer with the state maximum to reduce costs for residents.

The health director explained that Ohio law sets a maximum permit term of 10 years; the county’s current five-year interval is a local decision aimed at preventing system failures. “By state law, you have to have your septic tank cleaned every 10,” a commissioner summarized from staff comments, and the health director clarified that 10 years is the maximum permit length the state allows, while industry recommendations often advise pumping every three to five years depending on household use.

Staff warned that most major repair costs arise when older systems fail and must be replaced by secondary treatment systems or leaching fields. They said modern replacement costs can range “anywhere from 25 to up to $35,000 for brand new systems.” The department also noted it receives WPCLF (Water Pollution Control Loan Fund) dollars to assist property owners but that funds are limited and have waiting lists.

Commissioners emphasized resident cost concerns and said they want staff and the prosecutor’s office to review county regulations and present options. The health director said she and staff will review the supplemental regulations with the prosecutor and bring recommended changes to the board, including the possibility of extending permits up to the 10-year state maximum while maintaining the department’s operational recommendation that residents pump systems every three to five years where appropriate.

No change was adopted during the meeting; staff said they will return with proposed regulatory language and any recommended ordinance or permit adjustments for board consideration.