Operation and Maintenance Program WCHD program began in 2007 with NPDES and mechanical systems. TLCHD began O&M program for aerators and package plants roughly 20 years ago; Semi-Public systems since 2013 and residential septic since 2015 New state wide sewage rules Ohio Administrative Code 3701-29 effective 2015 Health Departments mandated to implement a HSTS Operation and Maintenance Program The purpose of the O&M Program is to: Develop a system for identification and inventory of all HSTS Ensure that failing systems are repaired or replaced according to current rules. Provide oversight of ongoing maintenance and operation of all identified systems. It is estimated that there are roughly 14,000 on site HSTS in Wood County that up to half are failing TLCHD estimates roughly 14,000 on site HSTS in Lucas County As of March 14, 2018, 698 onsite HSTS assessments have been conducted
O&M Priority Focus: Wood County Gradual phase-in over many years This is done by: Currently focused on Identifying suspected Critical Sewage Areas Failing HSTS in Wood County Nuisance complaints received by WCHD Realty transaction inspections Property Improvement Permit (PIP) New/Replacement Systems
O&M Priority Focus: Lucas County Phase 1 Phase 2 Phase 3 Phase 4 Phase 5 All new and replacement, altered HSTS Systems located along creeks and rivers No records, missing records Sand filters Other discharging systems Pre-1960 s Problem areas/critical areas Phase in all remaining systems
O&M Permit: Wood County Every septic system owner will be required to maintain their system. Application $115.00 for a 5 year permit Property Owners have 2 choices We go out and do a visual evaluation. The owner can provide receipt/copy of a contract in lieu of a Health District evaluation. If the system is ok, permit will be issued. If not operating properly, it will be required to be upgraded or replaced, under permit from this office. We provide homeowners with information/education on septic system maintenance
O&M Permit: Lucas County Permit cost: $150.00 for a 5 year O&M permit O&M Permit will contain educational materials and requirements for proper maintenance of the specific type of septic system installed. For example: Septic to Leach Field will require a homeowner inspection or contractor inspection in lieu of Health Department inspection, with pump out record submitted to this department. Aerator to Mound will require a service contract with registered service provider, to conduct inspection per manufacturer s instructions; sampling of aerator effluent to verify compliance with NPDES permit; inspection of mound and flushing of laterals Educational materials and videos will be available on our website for homeowners to view and learn about the proper maintenance of their septic system. Health Department will maintain logs for all maintenance records for each permit. For example, sampling and inspection records for HSTS with a NPDES permit. If the system is not working correctly, it will be required to be upgraded or replaced per the Ohio Revised Code, Ohio Administrative Code, and permit requirements.
Homeowner Education Lucas County Educational materials sent to homeowners with O&M permit packet at the time of final approval of the HSTS. This will include a copy of the final As-Built of the HSTS Copy of the O&M Permit, homeowner inspection form Online instructional videos, handouts, and social media campaign Wood County Key to Keeping systems operational Homeowners need to Know what their system consists of How to properly maintain their system Who to call if service is needed Educational folder handed to owners during our 12 month inspections Copy of O&M Permit Drawing Educational Information
Notifications to Owners: Wood County Property Owners will be mailed notification 30 days to return application and fee Up to 3 letters will be mailed If not complied with, Wood County Prosecutor will be notified Lucas County Lucas County is currently working with Lucas County Prosecutor and Auditor s Offices to determine the best method to proceed with collecting the O&M fee for the enrollment of phases 2 through 5. Since 2015, homeowners are enrolled in the O&M program when they apply for a new permit, alteration, or replacement HSTS.