Post-Wildfire Septic Information
Safety
Onsite wastewater (septic) systems that have been damaged during a fire may pose a significant safety risk. Tanks and lids made of plastic and/or fiberglass may melt when exposed to fire and extreme heat creating a hole, or weak spot in the tank or riser. It is also important to inspect your system for damage to PVC piping above or near the ground surface that may have been impacted by heat.
For your safety, please locate and rope off your septic tank and drain field areas prior to debris removal to avoid any accidents or damage to the system. Cover any openings with plywood or similar material until repairs can be made. If your wastewater system has been damaged, or if your system is backing up or malfunctioning, discontinue use and contact a licensed septic contractor and our office. Septic records are available online. If records are unavailable, contact a septic professional to locate your system.
Frequently Asked Questions
If my house was not destroyed or damaged by wildfire, do I need to have my septic system inspected prior to moving back into my home?
No, but it is recommended if the property was impacted by severe fire. This is especially true if you have a system with a pump, an advanced treatment technology, or sand filter system. Any tank risers at the ground surface should also be inspected, as these may have become brittle due to heat exposure. Take note of any slow draining plumbing fixtures or wet spots in the yard near the absorption field or septic tank, and contact a licensed sewage disposal service if you encounter any of these situations.
If I am going to rebuild or replace my home, do I need to have my septic system inspected?
Yes. If you plan to reconnect a new /replacement home to the existing septic system, you will need to apply for an Authorization Notice. An approved Authorization Notice is required before the Building permit may be issued. Part of this process includes having the system inspected by a DEQ-licensed septic contractor, and repairing any damaged parts of the system. It is important to note that the inspection should take place after any debris removal is completed. If instead you wish to replace the existing system, other steps will be required, depending on the property and your rebuilding plans. Contact our department for more information on the Authorization Notice process, or if you plan to replace the existing septic system.
If I’m rebuilding in a new location on the property, will I still be able to use the existing septic system?
It depends. If the system can be approved for use through Authorization process, the key factor will be if you have enough fall, or difference in elevation, from the proposed structure site to the septic tank. You may need a minor alteration permit to install a new tank, possibly with a pump. There may be other challenges, such as a creek, ravine or road between the proposed structure and the existing septic system.
If my house is standing, but the septic system has been damaged, do I need a permit to make repairs?
In most cases yes. If repairs are required, and not considered maintenance per OAR 340-071-0100(91), a permit will be required for the work. The type of repair permit will depend on what components need to be repaired or replaced. Once the repair permit is issued, only the property owner or a DEQ-licensed septic contractor may do the work. It is recommended that a licensed contractor perform the work, unless the homeowner has previous septic system installation and excavation skills.
If my home was damaged and I do not rebuild, but instead want to sell my lot, do I need to have my septic system inspected?
No. Septic systems serving homes that were destroyed by wildfire do not need to be inspected prior to transferring title. However, it is advisable to have an Existing System Evaluation Report completed by a licensed septic professional to ensure any issues with the septic system are identified prior to sale. This report may also be used to apply for an Authorization Notice if the new owner wishes to connect a new home to the existing septic system.
Can I get a copy of a map showing the location of my septic system?
Yes, if our department has a record of the construction permit we can provide that to you. Our installation records reach back to the mid-1970’s. If the system was constructed after that, there is a good chance we will have a record of the installation on file. Records can be searched via our website or by contacting our department. If you contact our department, please provide the address of the property and, if known, the tax lot number.
Other items to be aware of following a fire:
- Water usage should be minimized until proper septic system functioning is confirmed, to avoid sewage backing up into the home.
- Many modern systems have several components, including tanks, made of plastic, and frequently found near the ground surface. In addition to wet spots on the ground, take note of any depressions near the septic tank or drainfield. Have the system inspected by a licensed septic professional if you observe either of these conditions.
- Many septic systems contain electrical components or control panels. If you are unsure if these components have been damaged or are still functional, contact a licensed septic professional familiar with these systems for an inspection.
- Sump pump discharge water should not be directed into the septic tank or discharged onto the drainfield.
- Avoid driving or operating machinery over the top of the drainfield and tanks during debris removal or cleanup, as this can cause serious damage to system components.
Financial Assistance
Financial assistance may be available to help with repairs. Below are links to programs that may be able to help depending on your location and circumstances. Oregon residents who lost access to water and sewer service through their private wells and septic systems due to the September wildfires could be considered for financial assistance under FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program. Residents in counties designated for federal assistance to individuals and households due to the 2020 wildfires (Clackamas, Douglas, Jackson, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn and Marion) may be eligible for a FEMA award for household repairs not usually covered by insurance. This includes repair or replacement of septic systems and wells damaged by wildfires. To find out if you’re eligible, apply at disasterassistance.gov/, download the FEMA app, or call 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585).
