On-site Wastewater Program

Columbia County regulates the installation, repair, and maintenance of septic systems for homes and businesses not served by community sewer systems.

The Onsite Wastewater program is managed by the county's Public Health Department. 

Septic and onsite wastewater treatment systems must be designed, installed, and maintained to protect:

• the groundwater aquifer and surface waters from pathogen and nitrogen contamination
• public health by properly treating and disposing of disease-causing human waste.

Our services include:

• conducting site evaluations and permitting for on-site sewage systems 
• administering the Oregon State Sub-Surface Disposal Laws issued by the State Department of Environmental Quality.

More information:

• On-Site Application Guides/Forms
• Department of Environmental Quality - On-Site Program

Contact: onsite@columbiacountyor.gov