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Statewide Septic Systems Policy - OWTS

Staff of the State Water Resources Control Board has drafted a new policy as required by law to develop statewide standards for small septic systems.  Due to public comments received during previous workshops, this policy takes a very different approach than the regulations proposed in 2008. 

New! Public Comments

Workshop Slide Show Presentations Posted

Receive emailed updates on septic systems issues.  Subscribe online to our electronic mailing list, “Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (OWTS) – Septic Systems.”

Gravel Filling into the Leach Field
Watch the Video

Read the Policy

The public draft and environmental document are now available for public review.  Instructions for submitting written comments to the State Water Board are included in the public notice. More >>

Fact Sheets and More Information

These fact sheets were written to provide you with quick facts about the project and highlights from the policy. More >>

Map Tool

The State Water Board has developed a web-based map to assist property owners in determining whether they may be affected by the new policy. More >>

Attend a Public Meeting

State Water Board staff are holding eight public workshops at four locations across the state. More >>

Questions & Answers

Still have questions? Staff has prepared answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the draft policy.

Email to Receive Updates for Septic Systems Receive emailed updates on septic systems issues. Subscribe online to our electronic mailing list, "Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (OWTS) - Septic Systems".